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?
Calhoun County is a coastal community where rural life and industry meet. Our assets range from local residents, small businesses, the county hospital and a strong presence of large chemical and shipping industry. Being a coastal community means we are vulnerable to hurricanes, flooding, coastal erosion and economic disruption. I believe one of our most pressing issue that concerns our health and safety of our citizens and industry is the fate of our hospital. I have taken a very active role along with hospital board of directors and hospital staff to address issues that have plagued the hospital in the past. I believe with the focus of all involved and with some hard decisions we should have a more stable hospital for our citizens and the future growth of our community.

County judges oversee budgeting and emergency management. How would you balance fiscal responsibility with preparing for hurricanes and other disasters?
As the County Judge, I am in charge of the budgeting process. We as Commissioners Court have taken a very conservative approach to this process. We understand that being a coastal county can put us in harm’s way with hurricanes and flooding, because of this, our reserve needs to be a more than the inland counties because the threat of potential disasters. My nineteen years of knowledge and experience with hurricanes, floods, ice storms, and a pandemic has helped me better prepare for disasters. We have also invested heavily in mitigation to strengthen infrastructure in the areas of improved drainage throughout the county, hardening buildings with generator backups, and creating more reliable emergency communication networks. Most of these upgrades were done by leveraging grants from the Matagorda Bay Mitigation Trust, GOMESA, and the Texas General Land Office.

What role should the county play in economic development, and how would you work with cities, industry, and residents to protect quality of life?
A major role in economic development is played by the county. Also plays a support role for the local cities. It is very important that we work together with the local cities, communities in the county and local industry to help plan infrastructure needs and address safety concerns. Recently, the county joined with the City of Point Comfort and the City of Port Lavaca in the TIRZ agreement. This agreement is a way to incentivize home developers to build new homes in these areas. It is a method for the developer to recoup some of the infrastructure cost back potently making the home more affordable for buyers. When DOW proposed a nuclear reactor unit in the Seadrift area, Dow was asked to hold stakeholder meetings and community meetings to address safety and water concerns. The County Judge is the driver and must be knowledgeable with industry and its local communities

How would you describe your leadership style?
My leadership style can best be described as “Firm but Fair”. I believe in setting clear expectations, maintaining high standards, and holding my team accountable while being supportive, approachable, and respectful. I try to create an environment where people feel valued and motivated to do their best and know their efforts will be recognized.

What does transparency in county government mean to you, and how would you ensure residents have access to timely and accurate information?
Transparency in county government means that constituents can clearly see how decisions are made, how money is spent and how policies affect their daily lives without special access. Transparency builds trust and holds officials accountable to the people they serve. In the past thirteen months my staff and the county clerk’s office have researched and implemented a program where the commissioners court agenda and its supporting documents is uploaded to the county website as soon as the agenda is posted. The court minutes will be added once they are approved. Along with is one of our deputy clerks created a QR code so as you enter the court room you can scan it on your phone and then follow along in court.

Why are you the most qualified candidate for this position?
My nineteen years of knowledge gained through serving Commissioners Court, along with my proven leadership, deep commitment to public service, and practical understanding of our county’s needs, have prepared me to continue serving the people of Calhoun County. I am committed to listening to our community. I believe in ethical leadership, open communication, and always putting the needs of the county first. My goal is to preserve the values that make Calhoun County strong while planning responsibly for our future. I am ready to continue serving with integrity, experience, and a clear vision for a stronger Calhoun County.