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

Knights of Columbus Council 5921

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 serve to give back to a community that I have been fortunate enough to live in for my entire like.  I also want to help contribute to the continued growth of the town.

• Life-long Resident – I know where Willis has come from and can see the potential.
• Experienced – I have served the community through the council and by working for local businesses through out my life. 
• Honest/Trustworthy – There is not any other way.  Do what you say you are going to do.  Say what you mean with respect and never harm others.

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

Priorities –

• Street Repair
• Water and sewer expansion to outlying areas
• Annexation (expanding the city limits)

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

The City of Willis and the current Council works hard to be good stewards of the people’s money.  The City is fiscally responsible and this is done through having a good sound budget that is presented by different departments within the city.  As a council member, I rely on their expertise to help make fiscally sound decisions.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of Economic Development Partnerships?

Advantage:

• More input from involved parties which allows for different perspectives to be considered

             Greater opportunity to lure more and different businesses to the community

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?

No term limits.

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?

Should be retained in a rainy day fund to be used for emergency projects.

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

The budget is based on the projected revenue for the City of Willis.  Any increases to the budget in any area would need to fall within the revenue projections and any proposed changes need to be presented with a thorough rational.   There could and should always be an increase in the budget if the warranted by the community’s needs. 

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

No

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?

Bonds/Grants and enticing new businesses to the community that will increase the tax base.

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?

Council members receive $75 per meeting.  Typically, there is one meeting per month.  I would not propose any changes, but would be open to suggestions.  I also am not in this for the money.  I am serving a community that has given me and my family so much!

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?

Sales Tax Rate – 2%- 2.4 million in revenue

Property Tax Rate - $0.6295 – 2.2 million in revenue

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

It is appropriate when the council is in agreement and it benefits the city and the public as a whole.

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.

Debt Load – approximately $32 million

The city is being fiscally responsible and this money has ben used to improve the infrastructure of the city.  I rely on the experience of the City’s financial officer and other employees to make informed decisions.

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 support all law abiding efforts of free speech.

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

It is imperative that we follow the guidelines and recommendations from Emergency Management.   

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

My daughter works for Willis ISD. 

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.

No comment.

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

No comment

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

Yes, I own property.   No, I do not run a business. 

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?

No

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.  I am aware, but have never attended.

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?

There is no preference for the type of housing that is built in the city.  It is important for residence to have options and affordable housing.  The people create a livable community, not the type of houses.