This election is one of four contested races taking place this spring for seats on Leander City Council.
Members of Leander City Council are elected at large, meaning each member represents the entire city, and all registered voters in the city can cast a ballot for each position race.
Early voting runs from April 22-30.
Read Q&As with the candidates below. Candidates appear in ballot order. They were asked to keep responses to 75 words or fewer, 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.
*indicates incumbent
**indicates answer has been cut from the end for length
Pulla Reddy Yeduru
Experience:
Technology Executive, Innovator and Business owner
Occupation:
Sr. Director of Technology
Candidate Website:
https://reddy4leander.com
Why are you running for this position?
I am running for Leander City Council because I believe in the power of community-driven leadership and the need for fresh perspectives to address our city's challenges. I understand the importance of engaging with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to truly understand their needs and concerns. With a leadership background in a Fortune 500 company, I bring problem-solving, creative thinking, and a willingness to challenge the status quo! Join me in shaping a brighter future ... **
If elected, what are your goals for the city of Leander?
If elected, I will focus on creating policies that attract and support business-friendly environment to improve the quality of life for all residents, improve and speed up decision-making processes, champion building backup water systems, uphold fiscal responsibility, and prioritize the rule of law. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Leander for everyone. #Reddy4Leander
What are some of the biggest challenges facing Leander, and how would you work to address them?
We stand at a pivotal moment in our city's journey, a moment that demands our unwavering commitment to action. As a community, we must champion the construction of a reliable backup water system, ensuring our city is prepared for any challenge. We must also promote sustainable and responsible commercial growth, enhancing the quality of life for all Leander residents. Additionally, we must advocate for resources to bolster public safety and security, ensuring our neighborhoods are ... **
How would you ensure infrastructure, such as water and roads, keeps up with population growth?
To ensure infrastructure keeps up with population growth in Leander City, I will focus on generating new revenue streams by attracting new large, medium, and small businesses. This will not only create jobs but also increase the tax base, providing funds for infrastructure development. Additionally, I will work with surrounding cities to find and develop groundwater sources, reducing duplication of costs and ensuring a sustainable water supply for our growing population. Together, we can build ... **
What role does the city play in managing and guiding development?
The city plays a crucial role in managing and guiding development by socializing community strengths, facilitating conversations, and guiding potential investors on the do's and don'ts to expedite the decision-making process. By actively engaging with stakeholders and providing clear guidance, the city can ensure sustainable and responsible development that benefits the entire community. Together, we can shape a vibrant and prosperous future for Leander City.
Becki Ross*
Experience:
Current council member, Leander Chamber board, CapMetro board, P&Z commission, 21-year area resident and voter
Occupation:
Small-business owner
Candidate Website:
https://www.becki4leander.com
Why are you running for this position?
I enjoy helping ensure Leander’s future is bright. Water infrastructure projects are finally moving, our CapMetro relationship has improved dramatically, our new city manager selection will be able to fill a leadership void we’ve had for years. We have several big projects on the horizon, and I’m excited to continue the good work.
If elected, what are your goals for the city of Leander?
My goals are to continue to prioritize water and wastewater projects, focus on commercial development and primary employers, support streamlined processes and clear communication with residents and those that choose to conduct business in Leander, and to continue work on maximizing our partnership with CapMetro.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing Leander, and how would you work to address them?
Our challenge is keeping our focus and managing current opportunities and future needs.
How would you ensure infrastructure, such as water and roads, keeps up with population growth?
By making improvements to our water supply and delivery systems and approving roadway impact fees, we are working to put Leander in front of the growth.
What role does the city play in managing and guiding development?
By supporting infrastructure development and creating a vibrant master plan to ensure appropriate development.
Anna Yelaun
Experience:
Education: MBA, Masters in Geophysics, Ph.D. in Finance; chief financial officer; business owner
Occupation:
Business owner, Texas State Director Math Kangaroo USA, teacher
Candidate Website:
https://www.annayelaun4leander.com
Why are you running for this position?
My experience and expertise are a perfect fit for the role of city counselor. The goals that the city has set, as well as my vision, will go together well to give the people of Leander the solutions that we seek. I believe in the potential for our city to be truly exceptional, and I want to be part of making that happen. I want to have a vital role in creating positive change.
If elected, what are your goals for the city of Leander?
Truly listen to the concerns of the people of Leander and be a resource for solutions, progress, and positive change; Enhance safety; Nurture a sense of community for all of Leander and strengthen community bonds; Economic growth- Improve small-business support infrastructure, and boost our local economy; Implement sustainable water management practices & improve our water resources; Set the foundation for a thriving Leander and foster a prosperous new generation
What are some of the biggest challenges facing Leander, and how would you work to address them?
1) Water: Implement strategic water management plans, emphasizing conservation and exploring alternative sources, ensuring a reliable supply; Work closely with city planning authorities to develop and uphold professional, community-oriented zoning policies that align with the city's long-term vision through a professional and methodical mindset, prioritizing the sustainable development of Leander 2) Economy & Infrastructure: Use my finance background to solve problems and collaborate with city planners for thoughtful urban development; Support local business; Broaden child-care options
How would you ensure infrastructure, such as water and roads, keeps up with population growth?
1) Water: Develop and implement new methods of acquisition, conservation, and recycling 2) Cap Metro: Comprehensive evaluation of its current impact on our community: ridership, cost-effectiveness, alignment with the city's growth, current and past investments; Thorough analysis of its benefits and drawbacks along with input from residents 3) Urban Development: Use my finance background to work with city planners
What role does the city play in managing and guiding development?
Truly listen to the concerns of the people of Leander and be a resource for solutions, progress, and positive change; Create opportunities for commercial development; Support the Fire and Police departments; Ensure the current projects stay on track and be an active voice in implementing new initiatives with clear plans and expectations; Create, enforce, and amend policies and guidelines for potential and current development, including commercial, residential, and industrial
