Valerie Covey (incumbent)
Experience: more than nine years serving as a county commissioner, certified public accountant for more than 30 years
Why are you running for county commissioner?
The Commissioners Court acts as an executive board of the county. The growth of Williamson County requires professional leadership and long-term planning skills that I would continue to help provide. I am honored to serve the citizens of Williamson County and want to complete some important transportation, infrastructure and mental health projects.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
We need to continue to plan for the growth and address transportation and infrastructure issues. For example, the widening of Williams Drive and Hwy. 195. We also face balancing the growing cost of providing needed county services with trying to keep the budget and tax rate down. I serve on the Mental Health Task Force, which helps deal with ever-growing mental health issues, especially relating to our veterans.
Why should people vote for you?
As a conservative I strive to keep spending under control while using your tax dollars responsibly. In 2015, I led the charge to reduce voter-approved debt by $10 million, saving taxpayers approximately $5 million and helped protect our AAA bond rating. I have an open-door policy, emphasize communication and am a problem-solver. I want to continue to serve this great county.
Matt Heaton
Experience: Central Texas business owner since 1997, Marine Corps veteran
www.facebook.com/heatoninwilco3
Why are you running for county commissioner?
Williamson County needs a fresh voice in Precinct 3. Our current commissioner has been in the county seat for 10 years and has yet to look for a promotion. Politics should not be a profession in Williamson County, and 10 years is too far removed from the realities of your own decisions.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
We are $1 billion in debt and still going. We are spending our taxpayer dollars with out-of-state contractors and businesses rather than growing our county through local resources. We are the fastest-growing population in the nation yet one of the most in debt per capita populations in the state.
Why should people vote for you?
Williamson County needs a fresh voice and a new set of eyes on our budget and growth patterns. Ten years is too far removed from experiencing the realities of your decisions.
Candidates' responses were edited for space. This Q&A includes only Republican candidate responses. The Democratic candidate is unopposed.
