Georgetown mayor
By Beth Wade
Dale Ross, a certified public accountant and president and founder of accounting firm L. Dale Ross CPA, was elected as mayor in May. Ross served as District 6 councilman from 200811, including one year as mayor pro tem. As a council member he was on several city boards. Ross also serves as treasurer of the Georgetown Symphony Society and is a past president and treasurer of The Williamson Museum. Ross grew up in the Houston area and lived in Georgetown with his wife, Mickie, before his career took the couple to Florida. However, Ross said the couple had a desire to return to their home state, and the two moved back to Georgetown in 2004. Mickie, a former teacher, is executive director of The Williamson Museum.
What drew you into politics?
It really has to do with that old adage: to whom much is given, much is expected. Georgetown has been very kind to me because theyve supported my business and allowed me to pursue my dream as a business owner of a CPA firm.
The community has been kind to me, its been kind to my wife, and I think you should give back to the communityjust one way is to hold elected office.
What do you love most about living and working in Georgetown?
Georgetown has its own identity. When you are driving up I-35, you see the courthouse, you see the beautiful Square that we have. We have an incredible park system. For a city our size, it is world-class, and that is something that is unique about Georgetown as well. The citizens here place a lot of value on the park system, and it is incredible.
How do you plan to approach the role of mayor?
Ill help in any way that the city staff or city manager asks in respect to public relations. Im the face of the city. Im a diplomat, and I want to be a cheerleader for all things positive in the city of Georgetown. If some quality businesses want to come to Georgetown, the mayor can meet with them and encourage them to do so. Another thing is to really be involved in the community.
What are areas you think need improvement in the city?
In a lot of places it would be maintaining and enhancing such as maintaining our top-rated fire and police. There is not really anything that I would say right now that is a major issue. We have a very well-run city; we have an excellent City Council.
How do you plan to approach big issues from the dais?
I think the main thing is before these issues are voted on by council, everybody has an opportunity to give their view.
Everybody that wants to weigh in on an issue has been afforded that privilege.
We can disagree, but we disagree in a very respectful and professional wayand that includes disagreements among council members and the citizens of our community. I think thats the main thingalways make sure everybody always gets heard and you respect other peoples opinions.
