On the ballot
WM. Travis Crow and Rob McClelland are competing for a spot on the ballot in November. Sitting Precinct 4 Commissioner Walt Smith has served the county since 2018 and is not running for re-election.
A candidate must receive over 50% of the votes to win; if this doesn’t happen, a runoff election will be held May 26.
The winner of the Democratic primary will face the winner of the Republican primary in the general election, and the winner will serve as Hays County commissioner for Precinct 4.
For more election coverage, visit www.communityimpact.com.
What you need to know
- Tuesday, Feb. 17: first day of early voting in person
- Friday, Feb. 20: application for ballot by mail deadline (received in the elections office, not postmarked)
- Friday, Feb. 27: last day of early voting in person
- Tuesday, March 3: election day
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 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.
WM. Travis Crow
Occupation & Experience:
Self-employed Concrete Contractor, 8 years Dripping Springs City Council, 4 years Committee Chair of Transportation ...
Why are you running for Hays County commissioner?
I am running for the simple fact, that was instilled in me by father, that to be a part of a community you need to participate in that community. I have done public service, volunteer work in these positions. I know the issues that Hays County has and have …
What is the biggest challenge facing Precinct 4, and how would you address it?
The biggest issues for Hays County is taxes, traffic and water. Taxes: I not a big advocate for bonds, we all as citizens have to live within our means and so should the County. Roads: having worked with TxDOT, the county, it's a mess. Roads have to be over capacity …
If elected, what goals would you aim to achieve as commissioner?
Goals to address the issues above and some real change for the county. This will take all participants, cities, county, and state reps to address these issue. Let politics fall by the side and fix the problems, which is always easier said than done.
What else do you want voters to know about you?
People need to know my family has been here since 1867. I was born in Hays county, I live in Hays county, I raised my family in Hays county. I know Hays county.
Rob McClelland
Occupation & Experience:
Director of business development, school board trustee, Texas School Safety Center board member, sheriff's office …
Candidate Website:
http://www.robfortexas.com
Why are you running for Hays County commissioner?
I’m running to serve my community with conservative principles, fiscal responsibility, and common-sense leadership. Precinct 4 deserves a commissioner who prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, and local control while protecting taxpayers.
What is the biggest challenge facing Precinct 4, and how would you address it?
Rapid growth is the biggest challenge. I would focus on responsible development, infrastructure planning, and smart budgeting to ensure growth doesn’t outpace roads, public safety, and quality of life. We can improve drastically in this area.
If elected, what goals would you aim to achieve as commissioner?
My goals include strengthening public safety, improving roads and infrastructure, protecting taxpayers through fiscal discipline, and ensuring county government operates efficiently, transparently, and responsive to residents.
What else do you want voters to know about you?
I’m a combat veteran, husband, father, and community volunteer. I believe in service, accountability, and leading with integrity—always putting Hays County families first.

