Civic, Political or union organization or individuals to whom you have contributed (five years):

Trump Campaign

Have you ever been arrested? Ever had any tax liens? If so, start & resolution dates?

No.

Why are you running for this position?  What are the three main attributes that make you the most qualified for this position?

I have been serving my community, state and country since I was 17 years old.  I have an opportunity to continue serving even after retirement.  I am presently serving as a member of the Shenandoah Planning and Zoning Commission.  As a resident of Shenandoah for the past 10 years, I have seen population and commercial growth effect traffic and increase demand on energy and I want to be a part of the team that creates solutions.  I have executive management experience and am experienced in the deliberation and decision making process. 

What are the 3 most pressing issues in your city and what is your preferred solution to each?

Traffic congestion, inconsistent electrical power and city growth.   As a member of the planning commission we are preparing to adjust zoning designations to accommodate this both commercial and residential expansion.  I plan support any new and existing efforts to alleviate congestion in in key intersections and roadways.  I plan to keep our electricity provider pressured to maintain constant and reliable power to all residents by replacing outdated wires and transformers.

How can the operation of your city government be made more efficient and cost effective?

Under the present city administration, the budget has been brought under control.  I plan to join other council members in monitoring the budget and unnecessary expenses.  I think that regular communication with the public is essential in determining needs.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of Economic Development Partnerships?

I don't think this applies to the position I am running to fill.  If I understand this question right, I am not opposed to assistance in commercial development as long as its done responsibly and without risk to the economic state of the community for example small business assistance.

Do you support term limits for the council?  If so, how many terms? Which current Magnolia board member do you identify with the most and why?

I myself plan to serve for only three terms if elected.  I feel that in city such as Shenandoah, if the residents feel the elected officials are responsibly fulfilling their obligations, the residents should make that decision. However,  I don't feel that way about national elected position.

What is the current budget surplus and should any of it be returned to the residents, pay down debt or retained in a rainy day fund and if so, how much and why?

Reduction in fees would be a way of returning surpluses to the community.  For example water bills andgarbage collection.  Reducing outsstanding debts and rainy day funds seem appropriate.  I am not sure what the if any surplus exists given the reduction of sales and hotel revenues due to Civic.

Will you vote to increase or reduce the annual city budget?  Why?  What changes will you propose in your city’s budget?  Why?

I am not in a position to recommend any increase in budget numbers at this time.

Should the city be funding non-profit organization events, such as the local civic club, with tax dollars?

I don't object to any group being funded for the purpose of community outreach.

The ETJ area of the city is quite large. As the city grows how do you expect to the city to pay for the for water and sewer services for the annexed neighborhoods?

Those areas would be zoned as either commercial, industrial or residential.  Any entity wanting to develop there would incur a fee to offset those services. If tie ins to existing residences would need to be done, then I would support proportionate costs would be shared by the city and those residents.

How much does this position pay each year? Do you think this amount should be increased, decreased or even, like The Woodlands Township, receive no compensation at all?

I was not aware of the salary amount, I think that its reasonable as long as it does not over extend the budget.  I have no opinion on why the township does not compensate hard work.

What is the Sales Tax Rate for the City in which you're running?  Property Tax rate?  How much of the revenue is derived from each? Do you think it would be a good idea to broaden either or both of them to increase revenues?

Property tax is $0.1799 per $100,  sales tax is 1.5%.  The bulk of the revenue is from sales taxes (41%).  Property taxes about 14-15%.  That is why we enjoy the lowest propert taxes in the area.  I think that local taxes should be revisited ion a regular basis.

When would it be appropriate for a business receive any tax abatements?

I would need to consult with council members, city Attorney and city administrator to answer this question.

What is city's bond rating?  What is the current debt load and is it too high? Please describe how you will determine the proper debt load.

I am not in a position to know the answer to this question.  The outstanding bonds total slightly less than 30 mil.  Approximately 14 mil paid for by Public Improvement District (PID).  The balance are long term obligations paid for from property taxes.

Please discuss in detail (with your rationale) to what extent you will resist threats by political groups (such as the Freedom From Religion Foundation) to change long held practices (such as opening meetings with prayer or removing public monuments). Will you defend lawsuits brought against the city?

I fully support all our bill of rights without hesitation.  I will fight any effort to change long held practices or remove monuments.

What guidelines/ordinances/mandates do you support for public health emergencies?

Any mandate that is reasonable and does not infringe on the ability of local communities handle their own affairs should be considered.

Have you and/or any of your family members been employed by or working under contract to any taxing entity in your jurisdiction?

No.

Are you now or have you ever done business with the city and/or any other taxing entity? If so, what was the nature of that relationship?

No.

Please explain in detail why you support or oppose tax-paid welfare and health benefits to illegal aliens and recent immigrants.

I don't support that.

Would you vote in favor of spousal benefits for same-sex partners of State, County and City employees? Please explain your reasons.

I don't support it.

Do you own property in Montgomery County?  Do you own or operate a business in Montgomery County?

I own a home.

Are you active with any Tea Party or conservative grassroots organization? If so, list which, how long and what capacity? If not, what's your opinion of Tea Party groups here as to their effectiveness?

None.

Are you a member of ANY Chamber of Commerce group? Are you aware of and/or have you attended or plan to attend Leadership Montgomery County?

No.

In the city, and its ETJ area, there are a lot of apartments being constructed. Do you favor the construction of single family home over large apartment complexes? Do you believe that single family home creates a more livable community?

I support growth in properly zoned areas.