A closer look
Community Impact reached out to the three candidates who will be on the ballot for the seat.
Daniela Parsley, the current District 5 council member, has served one term since 2021 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.
Melisa Medina
Experience:
Leadership roles, conflict resolution, financial planning and budgeting, problem solving, communication skills, strategic planning
Occupation:
Chief operating officer
Contact Information:
N/A
Why are you running?
To bring unity and transparency between city council members as well as city council and residents.
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it?
Having trust in the city council and management. I will prioritize community trust by keeping council decisions and discussions transparent to build trust and unity. Hold public forums where residents can voice their opinions, ask questions, and engage with council members.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
I would promote the involvement of residents and stakeholders in the growth planning process to ensure that development meets community needs and preferences. I would recommend we organize public forums and surveys to gather input from residents on growth-related issues and preferences.
If elected, what would be your top three priorities?
Bringing back unity between city council and city residents; reduce excessive spending and budgets; sustainable infrastructure development
Marc McKinney
Experience:
Years of community service, leadership and activism
Occupation:
Consumer finance specialist
Candidate Website:
https://www.marcforkyle.com
Contact Information:
254-230-2290
Why are you running?
I have a calling and a passion to serve my community and make it the absolute best possible.
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it?
Our extremely rapid growth rate has presented both predictable and unexpected challenges. Managing the growth responsibly is critical.
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
We need to tie our impact fees to the actual development impact cost. This will put the liability and cost on the developer creating the problem in the first place instead of taxpayers, and slow it until our infrastructure can catch up.
If elected, what would be your top three priorities?
1) Responsible growth 2) Water sustainability and independence 3) Minimizing the financial burden on local residents.
Courtney Goza
Experience:
Land development, business, accounting, state government, purchasing, government contracts, and nonprofit
Occupation:
Real estate agent
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564524924977
Contact Information:
512-468-7076
Why are you running?
I'm running for council to bring positive change to Kyle. After leading a successful petition drive against a controversial council decision, I realized I could contribute more. I aim to use my diverse experience and education to make well-informed decisions that truly benefit our residents and improve our town.
What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it?
Water availability is our most critical issue. While awaiting the ARWA water line, we must be proactive. I'll address this by 1) Implementing educational programs on water-efficient landscaping and xeriscaping 2) Working with HOAs to relax architectural review processes and accept a broader range of drought-resistant plants 3) Promoting long-term ...
If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?
1) Ensuring developers contribute fairly to infrastructure costs 2) Reviewing tax incentives to promote equitable growth across Kyle 3) Implementing smart zoning policies to preserve our city's character 4) Investing in essential infrastructure to support sustainable expansion 5) Attracting diverse businesses to strengthen our local economy
If elected, what would be your top three priorities?
1) Ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient use of taxpayer funds 2) Guiding sustainable growth and policies which align with our infrastructure and preserves Kyle's quality of life 3) Increasing government transparency and actively engaging residents in local decision-making
