Meet the candidates
Republican candidate Covey has been in the Precinct 3 seat since 2006, using her skills as a certified public accountant to budget the county’s expenses, she said. Covey beat Mitch Slaymaker in the March 5 Republican primary election with 73.72% of votes.
Benedict, who used to be a Republican, is running in the Libertarian Party to support lower taxes and less spending, he said.
What you need to know
Early voting runs from Oct. 21-Nov. 1, and residents have until Oct. 7 to register to vote. Voting locations and the sample ballot are available on Williamson County’s website.
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.
*incumbent
Valerie Covey* (R)
Experience:
Precinct 3 County commissioner, CPA
Occupation:
Certified public accountant
Candidate Website:
https://www.valeriecovey.com
Why are you the best candidate for this seat?
I have served as commissioner Precinct 3 since 2006, demonstrating strong leadership and problem-solving skills rooted in conservative values. My experience as a CPA allows me to use my skills to help balance the budget and pay down debt, saving taxpayers over $100 million.
If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?
My primary goals include promoting responsible growth, enhancing mental health services and maintaining fiscal responsibility. I aim to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with our expanding population while supporting community initiatives that prioritize public safety and access to essential services for all residents.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve noticed within the county, and how would you work to address them?
Key challenges include rapid population growth, traffic congestion and mental health needs. I will continue advocating for jail diversion programs, expanding mental health resources, and investing in infrastructure improvements to ensure our community is equipped to handle growth effectively and provide necessary support services.
What values helped shape your campaign for county commissioner of Precinct 3?
Integrity, fiscal responsibility and Christian values are the core principles shaping my campaign. I believe in transparent governance and ethical leadership, ensuring that my decisions reflect the best interests of Williamson County residents and contribute positively to the community’s growth and well-being.
What are your priorities for economic development within Williamson County?
My economic development priorities focus on attracting diverse industries and supporting small businesses. I will advocate for infrastructure improvements and workforce development initiatives, creating a business-friendly environment that fosters innovation, creates well-paying jobs with benefits, and drives sustainable growth while enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
Wes Benedict (L)
Experience:
Former Libertarian Party executive director, manufacturing engineer, countertop manufacturing business owner
Occupation:
Consultant
Candidate Website:
https://www.wesbenedict.com
Why are you the best candidate for this seat?
Since getting a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Texas and an MBA and engineering master’s from University of Michigan, I’ve worked and traveled throughout the world. I started as a volunteer for the Libertarian Party but advanced to the national executive director position. I’ll do my best for you.
If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?
I want to cut taxes and spending enough so that the check you write for your property taxes gets smaller even when property values go up. We can do that by focusing on core services, cutting others, eliminating corporate welfare, and cutting expenses on non-violent drug offenses.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve noticed within the county, and how would you work to address them?
Most of the Williamson County budget pays for the criminal justice system, including sheriff’s deputy salaries, courts and jails. Let’s stop wasting resources going after marijuana users and instead focus on violent crimes and theft and pass the saving to taxpayers. I’m not advocating marijuana use. I’m advocating liberty.
What values helped shape your campaign for county commissioner of Precinct 3?
I used to be a Republican, but I noticed taxes and spending went up even where Republicans controlled the government. So, I switched to the Libertarian Party because I support lower taxes and less spending, but I’m also welcoming to immigrants and I’m socially tolerant. Live and let live.
What are your priorities for economic development within Williamson County?
I’m for free markets and a level playing field for all businesses. Instead, the county has granted tax cuts for a few lucky corporations to entice them to move here while making everyone else pay higher taxes. That’s unfair, risks corruption, and crowds our schools and roads.
