Position sought: San Benito Commissioner Place 4
Age: 70
Education: Graduate Brownsville High School, attended Texas Southmost College, and Pan American University majoring in Business Administration
How long have you been a San Benito resident?
I have resided in San Benito over 13 years.
Long time member of the Rotary Club of San Benito serving as its past President with multiple Paul Harris Awards over the years
Former Parks and Recreation Chairman. Along with my Board of Directors, we rehabilitated the Stookey Park irrigation system which was inoperable for many months
Founder of the Rotary Easter Parade and the San Benito Kayak Regatta, both events brought people and attention to the Heavin Resaca Trail.
Re-enactor with the Texas Independence Celebration in San Benito for 11 years
Member All Saints Episcopal Church serving on vestry, choir, and the men’s group activities
Do you believe enough money is being spent on street repairs?
I believe the city is spending all it can afford, without additional funding, for street repairs.
How should street repairs be funded?
It was brought up at a recent town hall meeting that an increase in taxes might be in the cards to expand this and other projects.
I stand firmly against increasing taxes, but I might be in favor of a bond election where voters would decide the streets issue and whether they are willing to pay more taxes.
Should the city build a swimming pool and splash pad, considering the city is under a mandate of more than $10 million for sewer system repairs?
I am very happy for the citizens finally getting a splash pad. While there are no plans currently for a swimming pool, we must live within the budget constraints that we have. I will continue searching for grants or other feasible options for a pool.
Some believe merging the Metropolitan Planning Organizations in Cameron and Hidalgo counties would give cities here more money. Others believe Cameron County cities would be ceding too much control over highway money to Hidalgo County because board positions would be allocated according to population. What is your position?
The MPO is a great tool for projecting traffic flow for our rapidly expanding population growth. I believe that it is time to look at the larger picture and consider thinking of the RGV as one metropolitan area in order for us to receive our share of the shrinking highway funds that are available. The upcoming 2020 census will prove that, once again, the RGV is busting at the seams. We need to be able p handle the traffic flow problem in the most cost effective way for our taxpayers benefit.
What qualifies you to be a city commissioner?
With over 30 years as a business owner and 20 years experience in rural water supply operations, I see crucial issues facing our potable water experience. I can bring a wealth of knowledge to the table providing sound and reasonable judgment in this field. I am fully retired and available to the citizens 7 days a week. I believe I can bring the city commission together on crucial issues and provide the proper resolution on most items. My resume is full and I am not trying to build on it. I am a uniter not a divider. My political push cards say it best. I truly believe in “Service Above Self”