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Two candidates are running for mayor of Cedar Park in the May 2 election.
In a nutshell
City Council Places 2, 4 and 6 will also be on the ballot, as well as several proposed amendments to the city's charter.
Community Impact spoke to both candidates for mayor, incumbent Jim Penniman-Morin and challenger Dean Doscher.
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Mayor of Cedar Park since 2022; former US Army officer; business attorney
What will be your top priorities if you are elected?
My priorities are strengthening public safety, expanding our road and trail network, securing long-term water supply, expanding economic opportunity, but most of all, building a more closely-connected community. I will continue keeping taxes low while investing responsibly in infrastructure that supports a thriving and vibrant for decades to come.
What uniquely qualifies you for this position?
Since being elected mayor in 2022, I’ve led Cedar Park with steady leadership, open ears and real results - safer neighborhoods, new parks, stronger infrastructure, and a thriving business community. My background as a veteran and attorney helps me bring people together, solve problems, and execute a clear plan.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing Cedar Park, and how will you address it?
Managing and sustaining growth while enhancing our quality of life is both our biggest challenge and opportunity. We address it through proactive planning - expanding roads and trails, securing water supply, hiring more first responders, and attracting great career opportunities. Growth can and should strengthen our community, not strain it.
What is something you want Cedar Park residents to know about you?
I believe in respectful leadership and long-term thinking. My goal is simple: leave Cedar Park stronger than we found it. I’m committed to building a city as innovative as its residents - where families feel safe, businesses thrive, and neighbors stay connected.
Small business owner, tax preparer; former Cedar Park firefighter; MBA; degrees in fire protection, computer science, and liberal arts
What will be your top priorities if you are elected?
My top priority is restoring integrity and trust in local government. That means a city that follows its own policies, operates transparently, and is accountable to residents. I also want to ensure concerns are addressed promptly and decisions are made openly and fairly.
What uniquely qualifies you for this position?
I bring firsthand experience in public service as a former Cedar Park firefighter, where integrity, accountability, and teamwork are essential. My experience showed me how important transparency and fair processes are in government. Leadership must consistently follow the rules and put people first.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing Cedar Park, and how will you address it?
Cedar Park’s rapid growth has outpaced how the government operates. As the city has grown more complex, leadership practices must grow with it. I will focus on clear processes, transparency, and accountability so the city government applies rules consistently, earns trust, and keeps pace with the community.
What is something you want Cedar Park residents to know about you?
I want residents to know I’m running because I care deeply about Cedar Park and believe the local government should serve the people with integrity. I’m not a career politician. I believe leadership means listening, following the rules, and protecting the community.
