

John A. Martinez
Candidate for Calhoun County Commissioner - Precinct 1
Incumbent
Age: 63
City/community of residence: Port Lavaca
Occupation and employer: Graduated from Calhoun High School in 1980, Married for 43 years, father of 3, grandpa to 6.
Prior public service: I am currently the County Commissioner of Precinct 1, having been appointed in October 2025. Basketball Referee for public schools, as well as Upwards Basketball, and Member of Texas Association of Sports Officials (TASO), Prior United Way President, former YMCA board member, former City of Port Lavaca Planning Board member
Years living in the precinct: I have lived in Precinct 1 for 21 years
My Story
What are the top two priorities for your precinct, and how would you advocate for them at the commissioners court level?
The top priority for my Precinct is maintenance, keeping roads, drainage systems, and county facilities in good working condition, for all residents. Preventative maintenance extends the life of infrastructure and reduces costly emergency repairs. I will always advocate for preventative planning, that focuses on long term efficiency.
The second priority is managing and completing ongoing projects while responsibly moving new projects forward. This includes the Magnolia Beach Fire Station project, various drainage improvement projects, and several other projects that are already in motion. I will advocate for clear timelines and work diligently to ensure that all projects are completed in an efficient, timely manner, and within budget.
Commissioners vote on the county budget. What principles guide your decisions when allocating taxpayer dollars?
I consider it a great responsibility to allocate taxpayer funds. I believe each and every budget decision is important and should be carefully considered. Every dollar should be spent wisely, and any unnecessary waste avoided. I will ensure that each residents tax dollars will be used to serve the people who trust us to make sound financial decisions.
How should the county balance growth, infrastructure needs, and rural or coastal preservation?
By planning our priorities, and setting achievable goals, I believe working together, we can facilitate growth, provide any needed infrastructure, and work toward preserving our beautiful natural coastline. Saving our coastline is paramount. We currently have a project underway to halt erosion at the crabbing bridge at Magnolia Beach, and to preserve Old Towne Lake. Calhoun County has been blessed with some extraordinary natural resources, and I will make every effort to protect the areas that make our county unique.
How would you ensure residents of your precinct feel heard and represented?
I have an open-door policy, and I am always willing to listen to residents’ concerns. Whether in person, by phone, or through email, I will do my best to follow through and make sure each concern is addressed in a timely manner. I value what residents have to say, and I will work hard to represent Precinct 1 in a way that is practical, fair and accountable.
What distinguishes you from the other candidates in this race?
I have lived in Calhoun County my entire life. My roots are here, and I know this community firsthand. I listen to residents, follow through on concerns, and focus on practical solutions. From maintaining the precinct to managing current and future projects, I am committed, approachable, and accountable, I am well-suited for this role and dedicated to putting the people of Precinct 1 and Calhoun County first.