Bee Cave City Council • Candidates Q & A
Candidate responses may have been edited for space. (*Incumbent)
Marie Lowman*
Marie Lowman[/caption]Occupation: principal industry consultant for the government practice with SAS Institute, an analytical software firm based in Cary, North Carolina
Education, experience: B.S., M.S. Indiana University; MBA Meredith College; International Ferienkurs (German), University of Heidelberg, Germany; 21 years working in IT (government focus); editor/contributing author: "A Practical Guide to Analytics for Government: Using Big Data for Good" (to be released June 6); planning and zoning commissioner for 5.5 years; elected council member 2014, 2015-17
Why are you running for Bee Cave City Council?
My husband and I moved to the (then) small town of Bee Cave in 2002 and fell in love with the area. There’s no better place to raise our four children, and the Lake Travis schools are excellent. I’ve seen Bee Cave grow exponentially over the past 15 years as a resident, and that’s why I’m dedicated to managing our growth. It needs to be smart, and I will ensure that it’s a balance of economic development, desirability and livability. I’m committed to keeping Bee Cave one of the best places to call home in Central Texas.
What is the biggest issue facing Bee Cave, and if elected, how would you address it?
Traffic. Many of the main roads in Bee Cave are owned and under the jurisdiction of TXDOT; we must foster excellent private-sector relationships to help solve this public-sector problem. Working with developers to help with the financial burden of improving the roads under our jurisdiction, e.g. Bee Cave Parkway, will not only help offset the cost to the city but allow the improvements to happen faster. I have also worked for the past two terms on establishing a citywide hike and bike trail system that I feel will greatly improve Bee Cave’s mobility and lifestyle.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I’m a longtime resident of Bee Cave, and my family is committed to this community. In addition to my 21 years of professional government experience, I’ve served Bee Cave as a commissioner and council member for almost nine years. I know what growth challenges we face and how best to handle them. Sound decision-making requires thoughtful research of every possible outcome, and if re-elected, I will continue to use data to make the most informed and vetted decisions possible. As a steward of your tax dollars, it is my duty to ensure each dollar is utilized to its maximum potential.
Kara King*
Kara King[/caption]Occupation: City Council member since May 2013 and secondary science teacher
Education, experience: graduated with a B.S .in biomedical science from Texas A&M, May 1998; moved nine times since 1998 and happily settled in Bee Cave in 2008; relocations showed me different areas of the country and how to communicate and develop relationships quickly; worked in medical sales and marketing for five years before returning to teaching
Why are you running for Bee Cave City Council?
I have thoroughly enjoyed serving the residents of Bee Cave for the past four years. I hope to continue to serve in order to help Bee Cave develop in a way that balances our Hill Country values with the rights of the property owner to develop their property (protected by state law).
What is the biggest issue facing Bee Cave, and if elected, how would you address it?
The biggest issue facing Bee Cave is its rapid growth and development. I work hard to develop relationships and communicate with residents in order to effectively communicate their desires and wishes to developers. This helps in bringing about projects that mirror the goals of the community and the property owners.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I am very mindful that this position is about being a public servant. I have no other agenda than to serve the residents of Bee Cave and help it grow and develop to reflect our Hill Country character. I listen, I communicate, and I value input and feedback. I want Bee Cave to be a great place to live for generations to come!
David K. Busch
David K. Busch[/caption]Occupation: retired Bechtel OG&C manager, subcontract administration (Worldwide)/sr. contracts manager
Education, experience: over 30 years' experience in engineering and construction management; 25 years with Bechtel and Kellogg Brown and Root; worked government-related jobs in Texas, Washington state; logistics support for U.S. military; directly involved in major engineering-construction projects globally; B.S. liberal studies from St. Edward's University, finance major, management minor; also attended University of Houston
Why are you running for Bee Cave City Council?
First and foremost, I am a family man with two children in Lake Travis ISD and feel I am now in a unique position to offer time in service of the community in which my family has chosen to live. My family has a history of service, and I would like to continue that tradition.
What is the biggest issue facing Bee Cave, and if elected, how would you address it?
Bee Cave has grown rapidly the past 15 years and will continue this rapid development over the next decade. There are issues of population density versus business interests within Bee Cave’s jurisdiction as it relates to our tax future. There are also impacts out of the control of Bee Cave in the surrounding area, which will further have significant impacts on Bee Cave residents, not the least of which is traffic. I feel that some of these concerns and interests could be managed better through the Bee Cave City Council. There needs to be smart, efficient evaluation of individual projects.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
My career has included working on many major engineering projects worldwide. I understand how to manage smart growth. The residents and businesses of Bee Cave have made this community into a local center for commerce, entertainment and government. To this, we will soon add the fine and performing arts, enhanced sports and more, all of which improved our lives and those of our children and grandchildren. With large and important projects up for review, my passion for the community and my understanding of the process will be valuable assets, which I would like to apply in service to the city.
Scott Cronk
Scott Cronk[/caption]Occupation: owner of small business including consulting, sports marketing and business brokerage
Education, experience: B.S., chemical engineering from Lafayette College; MBA from Butler University; president of publicly traded technology company; vice president of strategic marketing of a billion-dollar tech company; and a small-business owner for the last 15 years
Why are you running for Bee Cave City Council?
I’m running for Bee Cave City Council because I love our community and our families. I believe my experience and insights as a business owner and the executive director of one of the community’s largest nonprofits can make a positive impact in the shaping of our community for the future and our children.
What is the biggest issue facing Bee Cave, and if elected, how would you address it?
Traffic and road safety are daily issues we all deal with. Rather than the business-as-usual approach, I would seek solutions. When a new project brings a new development, I would ask for road improvements that they pay for. I would encourage development that offers the most complete experience and services that meets needs and offers lifestyle choices that makes our community amenities as complete as possible. We must improve our relationships with area leaders, including Travis County and TXDOT, to ease traffic congestion; get smarter about transportation solutions; and access available funds from the county and state.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I’ve never been a politician, but I have been president of a technology company, built a sports marketing firm and managed a large not-for-profit youth organization. I’ve balanced budgets, set priorities, and provided jobs and opportunities for young people and families. My family-focused, community- and business-minded approach will prioritize families and safety, not politics as usual. I will work with each Bee Cave neighborhood to improve traffic and mobility, enhance public safety and encourage responsible local businesses. Bee Cave needs new leadership and perspectives to manage growth, improve mobility and public safety, and maintain an excellent quality of life.
Monty Parker*
Monty Parker[/caption]Occupation: self-employed, offer consulting services based on professional experience; City Council bio at: http://beecavetexas.gov/city-government/city-council
Education, experience: worked almost 25 years for a Fortune 350 global metals manufacturing, fabricating, trading and recycling company; held director and vice president positions in divisions responsible for procurement, logistics and supply chain management; attended 90 percent of City Council meetings in 2012; commissioner on planning and zoning commission; finished term for former City Council member; management degree, Lee College, Baytown, TX
Why are you running for Bee Cave City Council?
I’ve invested a lot of time to gain the knowledge necessary to represent our citizens. I love what I do! I love studying council agendas, communicating with citizens, informing everyone through my council Facebook page, “Monty’s Bee Cave Buzz,” and working on complex issues surrounding development. If you follow council, you know by now that I am not bashful about tackling issues in a direct but respectful manner. Having now spent over three years serving our city, I hope to continue representing our citizens in the same fashion they have become accustomed to. I have a proven, public track record.
What is the biggest issue facing Bee Cave, and if elected, how would you address it?
Growth! But that encompasses several things, such as development, traffic, natural resources and our economy so our tax bills can be maintained at a very low level. Growth can’t be stopped, but it must be managed. I respect citizens' input regarding multi-family development and believe my record as a council member reflects a vision for addressing growth in our future. Without constraint, developers will forever push the envelope to build in ways that continue to exceed our code. We must be responsible stewards of our governing codes as well as cognizant of what standards we have held previous developers to.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
As an incumbent, I have a public record I am proud of, so citizens aren’t rolling the dice when they vote for me. I have no agenda other than to dedicate myself to our city. There is a lot more to this job than many realize. Council members spend countless hours preparing for and participating in council meetings as well as representing the city at civic functions. We also must be accessible and communicate in a clear and timely manner. I feel I have proven myself capable of representing our citizens for another term and hope they feel the same.
West Lake Hills City Council, Place 3 • Candidates Q & A
Candidate responses may have been edited for space. (*Incumbent)
Ambrose Krumpe
Ambrose Krumpe[/caption]Occupation: chief financial officer, Intersys Consulting (custom software development)
Education, experience: bachelor's from College of William and Mary in Virginia, master's from University of Texas at Austin, LBJ School of Public Affairs
What is the biggest issue facing West Lake Hills, and if elected, how would you address it?
West Lake Hills has been in the spotlight in recent years for the wrong reasons and is suffering from a lack of credibility. I plan to restore public trust through consistent, methodical and ethical contributions to the important deliberations facing our community.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I have valuable experience as a financial professional and business leader, and I am deeply committed to improving the lives of our citizens in a thoughtful, transparent and pragmatic way.
Beth South
Beth South[/caption]Occupation: professional and personal development consultant
Education, experience: graduate of Westlake High School and The University of Texas at Austin/bachelor's of journalism; 30-year career in media marketing, Austin American-Statesman; interim West Lake Hills City Council member, Place 1 (Feb.-May 2016); West Lake Hills Zoning and Planning commissioner; West Lake Hills Building/Design Committee Team One member; West Lake Hills resident for more than 40 years
What is the biggest issue facing West Lake Hills, and if elected, how would you address it?
West Lake Hills’ biggest issue is actually a bundle of issues springing from the growth and national/international popularity of our next door neighbor, Austin. Traffic, property rights questions, rapid construction projects and communication snags are always on the agenda. Finding win-win solutions, although not always possible, is my goal. I research the code of ordinances, previous decisions, and relevant news and information; listen closely to all parties, positions, and the educated discussion of the mayor and council members; ask lots of questions; and look for the solutions that align with the city’s master plan.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I have the depth of community knowledge; extensive career experience based on creating business connections and partnerships; a record of producing efficient and economical projects, events and campaigns; and the passion for developing valuable working relationships that would benefit the council and our city. I’m a ‘can-do’ person—always on the lookout for new ideas and ways to simplify and enhance processes. Improved communication—between the city and its citizenry—and among residents is a top priority.
Lakeway city council • Candidates Q & A
Candidate responses may have been edited for space. (*Incumbent)
Bridge Nertram*
Bridge Nertram[/caption]Occupation: with husband, owns Papa Murphy's Take 'N Bake Pizza in Lakeway and Texas Wood Pellet Grills
Education, experience: served Lakeway for the last seven years on parks and recreation commission, zoning and planning commission, and City Council
Why are you running for Lakeway City Council?
As a business owner, I can see city transitions from a different viewpoint. I am very visible to the general public, and that gives me an opportunity to talk to more residents about concerns and wins. We've got work to do, and if our community chooses me to continue, I will work very hard to keep them and their needs front and center.
What is the biggest issue facing Lakeway, and if elected, how would you address it?
One of the biggest concerns I hear about most is from business owners. The primary industry is service and retail. The problem with only having this type of business in a somewhat rural area is staffing. Lack of staffing causes poor service; increased prices; and businesses, without proper support, will close. We do not have the infrastructure to support this. The [cost of] leasing space in Lakeway is extremely high; there is no affordable housing, no public transportation and no economic development planning. I have already begun to work with CapMetro, CAMPO, and both chambers (Lake Travis and Bee Cave) to discuss possible alternatives.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I am the best candidate not only because of my long-term service to the city of Lakeway; I am also different in the sense that I am still a working woman in my businesses every day. I listen, and I have taken action on things concerning the city's residents and will continue to do so.
Ron Massa*
Ron Massa[/caption]Occupation: retired; former president/vice president, A.O. Smith Water Products Co.
Education, experience: B.S. business administration, San Jose State University; MBA, Seattle University; Marine Corps Reserve; Lakeway Zoning and Planning Commission chairman
Why are you running for Lakeway City Council?
I am running for re-election to serve the people of Lakeway by ensuring that city government responds to the expectations of our citizens, that we effectively manage our growth while maintaining our hometown atmosphere. I believe in conservative city finances and business and residential growth that reflects our values and minimizes homeowner tax requirements.
What is the biggest issue facing Lakeway, and if elected, how would you address it?
Growth and increasing population with its impact on traffic and required city services is the biggest issue we face. I will continue to lobby for improvements to RR 620 and inner-city connections where it makes sense and does not impair the atmosphere of the immediate community. I will promote business growth that fits our hometown atmosphere. I will continue my leadership in guiding effective city financial management. Most importantly, I will make sure that our citizens are heard and have input into how we address our opportunities.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
My greatest skill is the ability to lead by bringing people together to identify opportunities, solve problems and implement actions. During my last two years as a council member I have contributed my business skills, prior city service experience and pragmatism to serving the people of Lakeway.
Tiffany McMillan
Tiffany McMillan[/caption]Occupation: mother of three and housewife; community advocate and fundraiser
Education, experience: B.A., University of Texas at Austin
Why are you running for Lakeway City Council?
I love Lakeway and feel passionately about bringing qualified leadership and a fresh perspective to our City Council. The status quo has got to go, and things need to change in our community. I believe I can improve Lakeway to the benefit of all residents, business owners and visitors, now and into the future.
What is the biggest issue facing Lakeway, and if elected, how would you address it?
The biggest, most pressing issue facing Lakeway right now is growth. We're currently developing without consideration of the impact upon our infrastructure, property values or quality of life. Our 'build-build-build' mindset has created traffic issues, decreased home values and eroded the local charm of Lakeway. Change is inevitable, but growth is a choice. I believe we are the masters of our own fate, and we should thoughtfully consider when, where, how and why to grow. The lack of transparency between our leaders and community goes hand in hand with our current state of development. I will set a standard of open communication.
Why are you the best candidate for this position?
I'm smart, qualified and will bring more than 30 years of leadership experience with me. I'm different from all of the council members because I'm the only candidate with roots and a lifelong history in Lakeway. I'm from here, reared my children here and have parents retiring to their home (here) in the coming months. I have an abiding love and respect for how Lakeway shaped my own upbringing, and it inspires me to run for this position and serve. I'm accessible, inclusive, and I care deeply about the residents and business owners in Lakeway.
