Incumbent Duff O'Dell is running against Cory Huddleston in the May 6 election.[/caption]Duff O'Dell, a retired Delta Air Lines Inc. executive, is running for re-election to the Grapevine City Council Place 6 seat in the May 6 election.
Community Impact Newspaper sent O'Dell a series of questions. Her written responses, edited for publication style, are below.
1. Why are you running for Grapevine City Council?
It has been my honor to serve the citizens of Grapevine as a member of the City Council. I have worked very hard to make Grapevine an even greater place to live, work and play. As a council we have accomplished some amazing things, among them consistently lowering our property tax rate (16 percent since 2014). Last year alone, we reduced it by 12 percent to one of the lowest city tax rates in the state of Texas. We have a well-planned and conservative financial strategy, which allows the city to provide citizens with outstanding services, make sound investments in our infrastructure and still continue to keep city taxes low. That’s not the case in every city, and I’m very proud of that. I believe the business experience and value I bring to the Grapevine City Council has made a difference, and I want to continue to serve the citizens and add value to the decisions that will mold and shape our city for years to come.
2. What makes you qualified for this position?
My husband and I have lived in Grapevine for over 30 years and raised our family here. Our children and grandchildren have attended GCISD public schools. I have owned businesses in Grapevine; am a longtime community volunteer; and I have served on multiple city, church and civic boards and committees. My experience in all of these areas are critical to be successful as a member of the City Council. I have made positive contributions to the decisions that have been made regarding business development, economic and financial stability, and increased services to the people who call Grapevine home. I love Grapevine, and I want to continue to help in keeping Grapevine great for future generations.
3. If elected, what will you focus on?
Our council has been actively engaged in bringing economic development projects to Grapevine totaling over $632 million in new and expanded investments during my tenure. Bringing these projects to fruition as well as finalizing plans for a new train station, hotel and revitalized train district is a high priority as well as the final development of the 185-acre tract of land adjacent to Grapevine Mills Mall. I also want to continue seeking projects that improve the quality of life for our citizens and visitors.
Cory Huddleston has also filed for Place 6.
Election day is May 6 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m., and early voting will run April 24-29 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and May 1-2 from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
