Length of residency in Buda: 15 years

Experience: worked in construction management for 17 years, building teams and managing financial budgets

Why are you running?

I am running for City Council because I am concerned with the direction our city is going. Buda is experiencing the most significant growth in its long history, and many of our residents have started to accept “growing pains” as the status quo. I feel Buda needs a change and a new perspective to face the infrastructure, traffic, development and public safety challenges associated with this dynamic growth.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the city of Buda? 

I believe managing growth is the biggest challenge facing the city of Buda. Buda needs an experienced project manager and construction professional overseeing our development and growth. Buda’s resources for infrastructure are limited, we must manage and get ahead of the growth. Our transportation, utilities, schools and public services are strained today, budgets are tight, and we must make smart decisions with long-term goals in mind.

Why do you feel that you are the most qualified candidate?  I believe I am the most qualified candidate because I have managed and built infrastructure projects my entire career.  I have overseen budgets and directed teams for over 17 years in the public and private sectors. I have lived in three different communities all within the city of Buda. My children attend our schools, and I understand the unique challenges facing this community. I am not a politician and have never taken money from special interest groups. I will bring a common sense approach to City Council. What is your biggest priority when it comes to new infrastructure? From an infrastructure standpoint managing development, easing traffic and supporting public safety are the biggest priorities facing the city of Buda. The construction of the new Municipal/Public Safety building is a great example. It is the largest, single infrastructure project the city of Buda has attempted in its history. This project has faced numerous significant challenges, beginning with the property selected for the building. These challenges have delayed the project and pushed it over budget. I hope to use my project management experience to steer this construction and future infrastructure projects in the right direction.

How do you think Buda should adapt for growth while still retaining its character?

Buda needs to closely manage residential developers. Specifically, we need to analyze every new development to consider the impacts on our existing residents and our limited infrastructure. Buda needs to be strategic in terms of long-term planning. I believe we need to encourage smart commercial and industrial developments to keep our taxes low and help cover our major infrastructure costs. Buda needs to evaluate options to ease traffic and protect the charm of downtown.