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Lewisville will have three people vying for the Place 2 City Council seat during the May 4 election.
Incumbent William J. Meridith is facing challengers Ainsley Stelling and Penny Mallet.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
Community Impact is only asking candidates in contested May 4 contests to answer questionnaires.
*Indicates incumbent
Why are you running for office?
My journey into politics wasn't planned but an evolving and organic path, over several years, and a next step as requested by the Lord. I've seen firsthand the power of community organizing and the impact we can make when we come together. Nothing changes if nothing changes.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city?
Affordable housing and inflationary pricing, as felt all over the country. A knowledge gap in community sentiment towards increasing crime versus what statistics report. Managing an increasing population and traffic while being a landlocked city.
How do you plan to address these issues?
Institute a short-term rental density clause and population cap as university studies link increased home and rent prices to increases in STR populations. Work with Denton Central Appraisal District to remove homestead exemptions from investment properties operating as full-time short-term rentals.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
First and foremost, to re-present what is first presented to me from constituents in order fully embody the definition of a representative. Secondly, to foster an environment of unity in our community. Thirdly, bring us back to our roots of “In God we Trust.”
Why are you running for office?
I am running for office so we can continue the great work that the current City Council has done and keep up the great synergy we have. My experience to date as mayor pro tem, City Council and five years on P&Z makes me ideally suited for re-election to office.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city?
Affordable housing and senior living are some of our biggest challenges in Lewisville and across North Texas. Prices for housing and especially for senior living have skyrocketed here in the last few years.
How do you plan to address these issues?
The city of Lewisville has already prioritized this in our city and are on the verge of winning an award for our affording housing initiatives on a project in Old Town. I will also work with developers to prioritize affordable housing rehab of existing properties.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Complete the 2025 Plan and merge into the 2035 Plan; continue progress on finding more affordable housing projects and housing solutions for seniors; continue to work with staff to provide solutions to future budget challenges and work with staff on budget issues affected by bills in the state Legislature sessions.
Why are you running for office?
Representation matters for the residents that are busy working, family activities and find it difficult to be more involved in city council meetings and volunteer for projects.
What are the biggest challenges facing the city?
Inclusive community engagement. I am committed to fostering a more inclusive local government. This involves actively seeking input from residents of all backgrounds ensuring that diverse voices are heard in decision-making processes that shape our city. The city leadership depends on the council for policy, and the city leaders are responsible for development.
How do you plan to address these issues?
I believe in the power of education and awareness to build bridges of understanding. Proposing initiatives that are rich in arts and cultural for our community. We can cultivate a more connected and harmonious community, with events that show our diversity pride. In 2025, we will be a 100-year-old diverse old city. Let’s grow together.
What would your top priorities be if you are elected?
Affordable housing initiatives: support mixed income development with a range of options at market rate; senior services: new housing initiatives and solutions are a main concern as some of our locations are rolling off the tax break; small businesses: promoting economic initiatives so that we can keep our dollars local
