Terry Cook has been a Williamson County resident for over 10 years and has worked to serve the county for the past four, serving as a volunteer deputy voter registrar. Cook was elected to serve as the Williamson County Precinct 1 commissioner during the November election and will serve until 2020.

Before working in research and high-tech industries for 23 years, Cook received a master’s degree from Duke University in biomedical engineering. She now owns a small business and has served as the events chairwoman for the Williamson County Democratic Party since 2012. During her service with the county, Cook worked to expand events and festivals and educate and register voters.

For the past 11 years, Cook and her husband, Wayne, have lived in the Round Rock area.

Serving as Precinct 1 commissioner, Cook oversees much of the lower Williamson County area, including parts of Austin and Round Rock. She is the first Democrat elected to the Williamson County Commissioners Court since 1994. Cook replaces Commissioner Lisa Birkman, who decided not to seek re-election after serving three terms for a total of 12 years.

What drew you to running for this position?

A couple of reasons: It was an open seat, but also the court had been together a long time and are similar-minded. I [thought] that was not who the county was, and that the county is really diverse. I really wanted to diversify [things], and I really hope by joining the court that I can bring some conversations from another direction. I want to be challenged, and I hope I challenge [the court] a little bit. I am only one vote and I do not expect to change the world, but I can help change Precinct 1.

What is one of the first things you are hoping to accomplish?

[In January], it is going to be an interesting few weeks getting started. I really want to increase transparency and push data out [to residents]. I want the website for Precinct 1 to be really dynamic with a lot of information. I want to see if [a high] level of access and transparency is possible.

How has your background helped prepare you?

I have been really opportunistic [in my career]; whatever opportunities came in, I was willing to jump in, learn it and do it. I have the energy, and I am game.

What are some challenges you are preparing for with this new position?

There is a steep learning curve. It is going to be interesting to see how we can increase the productivity and responsiveness of this precinct. I have gained appreciation for what [Birkman] did. I want to be approachable and for people [in my precinct] to come see me and ask me to go to [their] meetings. I want to make sure I get around and see what people are up against. The budget process is coming around really soon, so I [want to be prepared for that].

I am also learning a whole lot about the court, especially for the budget process. The challenge for me now is visiting with all of the departments and seeing what their challenges and needs are and if it is something we can afford. Are we spending money for the right things in the right areas? I have already started meeting with a ton of people.