Paul Matthews[/caption]
Paul Matthews
Experience: finance director for the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, certified public accountant, chartered financial analyst and UT MBA graduate www.paul4texas.com
Why are you running for county commissioner?
As a Williamson County resident, property owner and father of two young boys, I have a vested interest in ensuring Williamson County remains a safe and affordable place to live. I am well-credentialed and experienced to serve as the next commissioner.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
Balancing the increasing burden of county property taxes versus individual income growth, managing county’s debt level, traffic congestion, fix ‘chip and seal’ in our neighborhoods, improving county employee retention and hiring—especially at the sheriff’s office, stopping construction of power lines along Brushy Creek.
Why should people vote for you?
I am the candidate with the most relevant work experience and the only one with county government budget experience. I am the best-credentialed (CPA/CFA/MBA). I am a lifelong conservative with a proven record of fiscal responsibility and defending liberty. I am pro-life and a defender of the Second Amendment.
Donna Parker[/caption]
Donna Parker
Experience: certified financial planner, director of the Brushy Creek MUD www.donnaforwilco.com
Why are you running for county commissioner?
We live in a great county. I want to be part of a responsible government that cares about people. I have an excellent skill set to bring to Commissioners Court. I have the financial skills necessary for this job, and I have excellent working relationships with our elected officials.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
Transportation and debt. We need to balance fiscal responsibility with good government. Within the next 20 years, Williamson County will almost double in population. We need to implement our long-term transportation plan, and we need efficient management of county debt. I have Public Funds Investment Act training.
Why should people vote for you?
I am committed to keeping Williamson County a great place to live, work and play. I am running as a ‘balanced conservative.’ I am committed to balancing the rapid growth of Williamson County with our high quality of life. I promise to work hard for you and listen to you.
Landy Warren[/caption]
Landy Warren
Experience: served on 15 major boards and committees, chairing 11 of them www.landywarren.com
Why are you running for county commissioner?
Williamson County has been our home for the last 16 years. It has offered our family tremendous opportunities, and as my children have finished their education, they are now making it their home. I want my children and grandchildren to have the same quality of life that we have enjoyed.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
The top issue we face is growth. Most of the other top issues are an outcropping of this growth. Transportation, economic development—job recruitment and creation, maintaining quality education at all levels and diversifying long-term water resources are critical to ensuring that our quality of life and community continue.
Why should people vote for you?
I am a proven leader, with a track record of success, in all of the issues identified above. I was the Round Rock Chamber’s Citizen of the Year in 2008, after living here eight years, for the work I had done to that time. I get the right things done.
Candidates' responses were edited for space.
