A closer look
Community Impact reached out to the two candidates who will be on the ballot for the seat. The incumbent, Lon A. Shell has served as the Hays County Commissioner for Precinct 3 since 2017 and is not running for re-election.
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.
More information on what will be on the Hays County ballot in the Nov. 5 general election can be found at www.hayscountytx.gov/elections.
Morgan Hammer
Experience:
Creating budgets, managing projects, proven leadership and management expertise, strong communication skills, dedicated hard worker
Occupation:
Financial Advisor
Candidate Website:
Hammerforhays.org
Contact Information:
254-485-5814
Why are you running?
I want to ensure my daughter grows up in a safe community. Experience with Hays County Sheriff's Citizen's Academy has provided insights into improving law enforcement. As a financial advisor, I understand budgets and can make effective, efficient decisions. I will serve my community and remain accessible to all constituents.
What is the most important issue facing residents and how would you address it?
The primary concern I've heard from voters is the effective use of their taxpayer dollars. I am committed to making decisions that enhance our spending efficiency for the county, not only for today but also for the years to come. Additionally, I have the time to oversee these decisions thoroughly.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
I would like to emphasize the importance of adopting a holistic approach when contemplating growth. We must be mindful of any unintended consequences that may arise from hasty or poorly executed expansion. Additionally, it is essential to address the infrastructure requirements to ensure a high quality of life is upheld.
If elected, what would be your top 3 priorities?
As the largest unincorporated precinct in the county, Precinct 3 covers an extensive area. As one of your most local officials, my primary focus is to ensure a high standard of county services in the areas of public safety, infrastructure, and environmental/development services.
Rebecca Minnick
Experience:
Wimberley Mayor Pro Tem since 2019, Planning and Zoning Commissioner 30-plus years in corporate communications
Occupation:
Real Estate Agent
Candidate Website:
https://joinrebecca.org/
Contact Information:
281-923-7698
Why are you running?
My love of the Texas Hill Country and my commitment to a bright future for all of our descendants has inspired me to run for this office. Working with my neighbors and citizens to improve my Wimberley community has spurred me to take my public service to the next level.
What is the most important issue facing residents and how would you address it?
Hays County is experiencing drought and diminishing water levels in our aquifers, endangering our recreation economy, public safety and our future. I would speed up the expenditure of the Parks & Open Space Bond funds for conservation lands, codify already proposed responsible development initiatives and promote citizen awareness and involvement.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
Planning and preparation for responsible development in partnership with our cities is crucial. I propose providing adequate professional staffing to implement timely review of platting, site plans and code enforcement, updating building codes to incentivize sustainable building practices and implementing water reuse technologies. Development needs to be aggressively.
If elected, what would be your top 3 priorities?
Water and drought strategies—including emergency planning for resulting weather events; preparing for the future—ensuring that we are growing in a thoughtful, fiscally responsible and sustainable way; and transparency and communications—developing diverse communications with citizens and jurisdictions
