Zooming in
Community Impact reached out to the two candidates who will be on the ballot for the seat. The incumbent, Jude Prather, has served three terms in office from 2010-13, 2013-16 and 2021-24, 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 San Marcos ballot in the Nov. 5 general election can be found at www.hayscountytx.gov/elections.
Amanda Rodriguez
Experience:
Created statewide and local policies, chaired a local nonprofit, community organizer
Occupation:
Policy director
Candidate Website:
https://www.rodriguez4smtx.com
Contact Information:
512-781-5070
Why are you running?
I’m running for city council because I love the people and I’m tired of witnessing struggle and injustice. I want to fight for a better, fairer city where people are truly free. This is my way of giving power back to the community and making a meaningful difference.
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it?
The most important issue is affordable housing and flood resilience. I’ll push for community-controlled land initiatives and ensure effective use of funds for flood mitigation and home retrofitting to protect against climate-related risks.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
I’ll address future growth by taking a community-centered approach in planning, ensuring affordable housing, expanding essential services, promoting job training, and improving infrastructure in underinvested areas.
If elected, what would be your top three priorities?
If elected, my top three priorities will be advancing economic opportunities for all, ensuring affordable housing, and promoting true public safety with a focus on prevention and support.
Maraya Dun
Experience:
A small business owner in downtown San Marcos, currently serving as a planning and zoning commissioner.
Occupation:
Owner of Stinky Dawg
Contact Information:
737-355-2677
Why are you running?
I’m running to support sustainable growth, affordable housing, and protect natural resources. I’ll strengthen local businesses and ensure San Marcos thrives economically while maintaining its unique character. My goal is to improve residents' quality of life while balancing growth with preserving what makes San Marcos special.
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you <br>address it?
San Marcos needs good-paying jobs and affordable housing. I’ll support local businesses and attract companies to raise incomes. Promoting diverse housing options that align with residents’ incomes will ensure balanced, sustainable growth, making our community more accessible while maintaining economic stability.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
I will promote sustainable growth by encouraging responsible development, affordable housing, and protecting our natural resources. Growth should benefit the community while preserving San Marcos’ core values and unique character. My focus is on ensuring economic opportunities without sacrificing what makes our city special.
If elected, what would be your top three priorities?
My top priorities are attracting high-paying jobs to boost our economy, promoting diverse housing options to meet residents’ needs, and addressing overcrowding at the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter with long-term solutions, reducing euthanasia and ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
