Local · Trusted · Free
The Morning Impact — your neighborhood's most important stories, delivered every morning.
Klaus, Jackson answer questions on growth, county authority and emergency preparedness
Explore Bastrop - Cedar Creek on the Impact Mapstories, offers and more
Two candidates will face off for Bastrop County Judge in the November general election.
Republican incumbent Gregory Klaus and Democratic candidate Dock Jackson will compete in the Nov. 3 election for Bastrop County Judge.
In the March 3 primary election, Klaus defeated Republican challenger Donald Loucks with about 64% of the vote.
Jackson was unopposed in the Democratic primary.
Voter registration is open through Oct. 5 for the November elections.
Other key dates include:
Oct. 19: Early voting begins
Oct. 23: Deadline for the Elections Office to receive a ballot-by-mail application
Oct. 30: Last day of early voting
Nov. 3: Election Day
Community Impact's goal with election Q&As is to provide a side-by-side, equitable resource for Bastrop County voters to review candidates' perspectives before they head to the polls.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents.
Current Bastrop County Judge and lifelong resident with experience in county leadership and public service.
What are your top three priorities if re-elected?
My three priorities are public safety, responsible growth and fiscal responsibility. We must continue strengthening emergency services and infrastructure, planning for rapid growth and protecting taxpayers. As Bastrop County grows, we must manage growth responsibly while protecting the quality of life and property rights of those who call it home.
What authority should counties have over large industrial developments, and how would you use it?
Counties need greater authority to address the impacts of large industrial developments on neighboring property owners, roads, water, drainage and emergency services. I would support reasonable tools to address those impacts without taking away private property rights, with clear, consistent rules focused on protecting residents while allowing responsible economic development.
What changes would you make to strengthen Bastrop County’s disaster preparedness and response?
Bastrop County knows firsthand the devastation disasters can cause. Our Emergency Management Office has done a great job preparing for and responding to emergencies, and we depend on their expertise. I will support their efforts, strengthening resources and coordination, and ensuring they have what they need to keep communities prepared.
Retired from Bastrop County Judge, Clerk and JP Offices; 30-year Bastrop City Council member
What are your top three priorities if elected?
Manage growth responsibly while protecting water, affordability and our rural quality of life. Improve roads, bridges, broadband, water, electricity and other infrastructure through a countywide master plan. Strengthen public safety, including fire, EMS, law enforcement, emergency preparedness and workforce development.
What authority should counties have over large industrial developments, and how would you use it?
Counties should have stronger authority over development standards, including roads, drainage, flood protection, water availability and infrastructure. Developers should help pay for infrastructure their projects require. Local citizens should have a meaningful voice in growth decisions affecting their communities.
What changes would you make to strengthen Bastrop County’s disaster preparedness and response?
Strengthen emergency preparedness through better infrastructure, increased funding and regular coordination among the county, cities, schools, citizens and emergency agencies. Improve roads, water systems, wildfire protection, flood mitigation and emergency response while making public safety a continuing budget priority.
