What do you see as the most pressing issue facing Calhoun County over the next four years, and what specific steps would you take as county judge to address it?
A pressing issue facing Calhoun County is the continued use of property tax abatements and exemptions for large industrial corporations. While economic development is important, these incentives shift a significant portion of the county’s financial responsibility onto local residents, many of whom already shoulder a substantial tax burden.
Eliminating tax abatements for major corporations would allow Calhoun County to retain millions of dollars in revenue that could be reinvested directly into critical community needs. These funds could help sustain Memorial Medical Center, ensuring continued access to local healthcare without requiring the creation of a new hospital that would further burden taxpayers. Additional revenue could also support much-needed drainage improvements in low-lying areas such as Port O’Connor and Seadrift, enhance county road infrastructure, and promote tourism through improved access to the coastline.
Corporate welfare/Tax abatements have been utilized in Calhoun County since the early 1980s. Reassessing these policies presents an opportunity to strengthen essential services and invest more equitably in the future of our community.

County judges oversee budgeting and emergency management. How would you balance fiscal responsibility with preparing for hurricanes and other disasters?
Oversight of budgeting and emergency management is a core responsibility of the County Judge and Commissioners Court. In the coming years, reductions in federal funding are expected to shift more responsibility for storm tracking and disaster preparedness to the states. To meet this challenge, I support exploring innovative technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance storm tracking and forecasting in coordination with remaining federally funded programs.
As weather patterns continue to change, storms are becoming more frequent, less predictable, and increasingly severe—resulting in greater property damage and, most importantly, risks to human life. I would pursue regional partnerships with other coastal counties to equitably share costs and strengthen emergency management infrastructure, while leveraging available Texas state grants to invest in advanced storm prediction tools.
As County Judge, I would rely on the guidance of Emergency Preparedness Teams and apply sound judgment when making decisions regarding public safety, including the implementation of evacuation orders when necessary.

What role should the county play in economic development, and how would you work with cities, industry, and residents to protect quality of life?
The County Judge and Commissioners Court should take a leadership role in partnering with Calhoun County’s cities and unincorporated communities to promote responsible economic development. Open meetings and public dialogue are essential to ensuring growth aligns with community values and long-term needs. These discussions should address key considerations such as employment opportunities for local residents, environmental and public health impacts, and the housing and infrastructure improvements necessary to support sustainable development.
As County Judge, I would actively engage with city councils, meet with residents in unincorporated communities, and welcome participation from all stakeholders through in-person and virtual forums. I would also work collaboratively with industry leaders to recognize positive community partnerships while clearly communicating Calhoun County’s expectations for quality of life. Additionally, I would seek input from small businesses, the seafood industry, farmers, and ranchers to better understand their perspectives and ensure economic development decisions reflect the diverse interests of our county.

How would you describe your leadership style?
My leadership style is rooted in thoughtful, well-informed decision-making, supported by the confidence and determination necessary to move Calhoun County forward. I believe meaningful progress is achieved through collaboration, strong teamwork, and trusted community partnerships. As a team-oriented leader, I am committed to advancing initiatives that reflect the needs, priorities, and values of our residents.
I value open communication and actively listen to all perspectives before making decisions that affect our county’s future. I believe county government must be transparent, accessible, and accountable to the people it serves. I strive to lead with integrity, fairness, and respect, guided by principles of honesty and goodwill. Above all, I am dedicated to advocating for Calhoun County residents and working tirelessly to protect their interests and quality of life.

What does transparency in county government mean to you, and how would you ensure residents have access to timely and accurate information?
Transparency means leading county government with openness, accountability, and a commitment to keeping residents informed and engaged in Calhoun County’s future. The public has a right to understand how decisions are made and how taxpayer dollars are managed. This includes clear and accessible information on county expenditures, economic development initiatives, annual budgets, and long-term five-year financial projections. Major projects and economic development efforts should be discussed in open meetings with proper public notice to promote meaningful community participation. Residents must also have opportunities to provide public comment and address the Commissioners Court. As County Judge, I will ensure meetings are accessible virtually, recorded, and available to those who are unable to attend. I will maintain an open-door policy and encourage constructive dialogue, so county business is conducted openly, responsibly, and in the best interests of our community.

Why are you the most qualified candidate for this position?
I am the most qualified candidate for this position because of my proven experience as a leader and manager, combined with deep roots in Calhoun County. Having worked in my family’s farming and seafood small businesses, I understand both the challenges facing local businesses and the everyday concerns of county residents. I am a lifelong Calhoun County resident, leaving only to complete my college education. With six years of government experience as a former Port Lavaca City Council member, I am a strong and effective communicator. I will lead with integrity, determination, and thoughtful decision-making, always focused on serving the best interests of our community.