Meet the candidates for Montgomery County Judge

What is the top issue facing Montgomery County?

Conservative fiscal responsibility requires longer term financial planning as we grow to a million residents, to protect taxpayers, public safety, critical services and our way of life. We need experienced financial leadership that doesn’t kick the can with annual budgets and simply hopes for the best in the future.

How would you address the county’s rapid growth?

Infrastructure and growth require greater alignment. We have limited ability to control what happens on private property, but we need to consider and disclose long-term financial, tax traffic and resource impact of development projects seeking approvals, concessions and county infrastructure. Promote broader economic and business growth, not just rooftops.

What is your approach to the county budget and tax rate?

Our tax rate has fallen in recent years, but we’re paying more with increased appraisals. I would focus on no new revenues beyond growth and inflation. Exceptions may be special voter-approved capital projects. Disclose longer term budget as we can’t just look one year ahead.

How should the county address courthouse, jail and public safety needs?

We need a safe modern courthouse and jail to ensure public safety, and can’t kick the can on this any longer. I will spearhead effort to secure widespread public support for bonds and work with judges and MCSO to convince the public that the capital expense is justified and necessary.

What would be your top priority as county judge?

Publish an interactive long-term county financial plan, as a guide for decision-making, budgeting and accountability; more public visibility and voice on Commissioners Court agendas, including move to some evening meetings; better coordinate community services; broad economic development; coordinated water plan; courthouse and jail; expanded spaying and neutering.

What is the top issue facing Montgomery County?

Managing rapid growth without sacrificing the safety, mobility, affordability and quality of life that brought families here. We must stay ahead of traffic, drainage, law enforcement and court needs while keeping government accountable and protecting taxpayers.

How would you address the county’s rapid growth?

We must plan ahead, not chase growth after it arrives. I will keep mobility projects moving, require development to address traffic and drainage impacts, coordinate with cities and regional partners, and ensure growth strengthens, not burdens, our existing communities.

What is your approach to the county budget and tax rate?

My approach is fiscal discipline and honesty about trade-offs. We must fund core responsibilities first, eliminate waste, control debt and protect strong reserves. I will continue fighting for the lowest responsible tax rate while keeping law enforcement, roads and essential county services properly funded.

How should the county address courthouse, jail and public safety needs?

Public safety is government’s first responsibility. We must right-size courthouse and jail needs through transparent planning, competitive bidding and phased financing. I will not support rushing taxpayers into an overpriced project; major debt should be clearly justified and decided by voters.

What would be your top priority as county judge?

My priority is preserving the quality of life Montgomery County families expect; safe neighborhoods, reliable roads, strong emergency response and responsible government. We can manage growth without becoming like Harris County by backing law enforcement, protecting taxpayers and planning ahead.