Republican candidate Scott Johnson is running for Collin County Judge. He will run against Chris Hill and Ray Ricchi in the March Republican primary election. Community Impact Newspaper sent Johnson a series of questions on his candidacy. His written responses, edited for publication style, are below. Q: What is your current occupation? A: Consultant Q: Why are you running for Collin County Judge? A:  I have spent my life contributing to my community, and I see becoming Collin County Judge as a way to use my life’s experience and involvement to help Collin County become even better. Q: Why are you qualified for this position? A: I have a unique combination of civic and business experience that has prepared me to serve the taxpayers of Collin County. My experience includes broadening the tax base which can lower the tax rate to property owners, working on innovative solutions to get traffic moving, and collaborating with people and organizations to bridge differences and achieve results. Q: What issues do you feel the county will face over the next five years? A: There are three issues the county will face in the next five years:

  1. Finding solutions to handle the increasing traffic 2. Keep taxes low, grow the tax base and maintain high customer service levels 3. Improving public safety: [For example,] the deputy sheriff’s emergency response times recently increased to 40 minutes. [I will] assure there are no sanctuary cities in Collin County.
Q: If elected, how will you address those issues?  A: Change the attitude of county government officials to actively manage and collaborate with citizens, cities and communities, state and federal officials. I believe real leadership begins with listening. As county judge, my door will always be open, and my office completely transparent. Q: What are your thoughts on county transportation? A: Transportation and its increasing traffic is a high concern for Collin County. The current population of 950,000 is expected to reach 2 million people in about 15-20 years. It is important for the citizens, the cities and communities in Collin County to have a well-functioning and efficient transportation system. New residents and businesses expect this, as does our reputation as a desirable place to live, work and enjoy life. Our current highway system is feeling the strain and crowding of the ever-increasing traffic. Collin County has not had a voter-approved highway bond program in over 10 years. Previously, programs were done every three to four years. The county is overdue to finalize its highway planning and seek financing approval from the voters. It will take years to finish final design, right of way purchases and construction before a highway opens, so this needs to be addressed now. More information about Johnson and his campaign can be found online at www.voteforscottjohnson.com.