Learn more about the two candidates running in the Republican primary election for the Collin County commissioner Precinct 3 seat.
Early voting for the primary election begins Feb. 20 and ends March 1 before election day March 5.
The two candidates who have filed to run in the Republican primary election are Jim Garrison and incumbent Darrell Hale, according to the Texas secretary of state’s website.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Candidate responses may have been edited for length, style and clarity.
*Indicates incumbent
Jim Garrison
Experience:
Elected & appointed service: city councilman Economic Development Commission liaison to North Texas Council of Governments ...
Occupation:
Producer—audio video production
Contact Information:
214-336-2258
Why are you running for office?
I have over 30 years of public service at a municipal/city level. My opponent has none and it is reflected in his voting record. I will fill that void.
What are the biggest challenges facing the county?
The biggest challenges that face Collin County will be staying ahead of the growth on every level. Infrastructure, water supply and delivery, electric grid, and law enforcement. The population of Collin County is currently 1.1 million and is forecast to double by the year 2050.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Any good leader will tell you that you need to be proactive and anticipate current and future needs of the county. That will require an effective relationship with all of the municipalities in Collin County. The Commissioners Court need to aggressively seek out and encourage communication from all Collin County.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
In addition to aggressively staying ahead of the growth challenges, there is a serious election integrity issue in Collin County. The Commissioners Court is aware of the issues and is deliberately "slow walking" any resolution to the problems. Resolution needs to be a priority!
Darrell Hale*
Experience:
Current commissioner small business owner telecom executive Army veteran West Point grad executive MBA UTD
Occupation:
County commissioner Precinct 3
Candidate Website:
https://www.darrellhale.org
Contact Information:
214-471-3584
Why are you running for office?
I am running to continue my service to my constituents of the county. I want the county to be prepared for the massive growth coming and I want to set down the path for future commissioners.
What are the biggest challenges facing the county?
Growth, Growth, and more Growth. We are growing at around 100 people a day in the county. It puts strain on every aspect of governmental services from public safety to courts, to roads, to water. You name it. Growth impacts everything.
How do you plan to address these issues?
We are planning ahead to grow facilities, roads, highways, and county roads.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Low taxes, longer lasting county roads, future planning for transportation corridors that have not yet been in the public discussion.
