Bently Paiz and Tanya Marroquin are running on that ticket in the March primary election.
Precinct 3 covers a large portion of New Braunfels running along I-35.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, 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.
Community Impact is only asking candidates in contested Republican or Democratic primaries to answer questionnaires.
Tanya Marroquin
Experience:
Mom, teacher, student
Occupation:
High school science teacher
Candidate Website:
https://www.marroquinforcommissioner.com
Contact Information:
210-464-8837
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it if elected?
When I tell people I am running for commissioner I get asked the same thing, “Great! Do something about all of the development.” I want people to know there is someone on the Commissioners Court fighting for their vision of New Braunfels. I am tenacious and ask the hard questions.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all your constituency as a whole?
I will talk and listen to anyone who has a concern. I also want to be the voice for those who do not think they have a voice.
What issues outside of the most important one named above are a high priority for you to address?
When I speak to residents in this area they are concerned about road and pedestrian safety and protecting the environment and natural resources. Those will also be a high priority I will address.
What is the overall takeaway you want voters to understand about your campaign?
My experiences have taught me compassion and understanding. They have also made me strong and taught me to seek out the best solutions for difficult situations. I am here to represent the underrepresented.
Bently Paiz
Experience:
Independent photojournalist, former U.S. congressional campaign staffer, founder/president of Guada-Coma Progressive Coalition
Occupation:
Barista at 2Tarts Bakery
Candidate Website:
https://www.bently4comalcounty.com
Contact Information:
210-851-2129
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it if elected?
Comal County, the fastest-growing county in the U.S., demands adaptability from our elected officials. Amidst the growth, a strategic plan is imperative to effectively manage our region's future expansion and safeguard the well-being of our community.
If elected, how do you plan to represent all your constituency as a whole?
I am prepared to work with our community and neighboring counties to fast-track the process of implementing a strategic approach to how our county will manage the future growth within our region. This includes allocating funds for research and studies, as well as initiating simple conversations about the importance of change.
What issues outside of the most important one named above are a high priority for you to address?
My priorities encompass our rivers and environment, addressing last summer's drought, potential issues from a forthcoming water treatment facility, and concerns arising from a recently approved quarry. Additionally, with rising displacement of generational residents, mental health challenges surge. Prioritizing youth mental health is crucial to understanding and addressing community-specific issues.
What is the overall takeaway you want voters to understand about your campaign?
I'm not a party loyalist. I'm here to represent the best of our community and shape the future for generations. Let's move away from divisive national issues and focus on real challenges in Comal. Despite political divides, our community shares more in common than ever before.
