[caption id="attachment_229254" align="alignright" width="220"] Charlie Philips[/caption] Charlie Philips is running for the at-large seat in the upcoming McKinney City Council election. Philips is running against Derek Baker, Kevin M. Smallwood, Thomas "TJ" Reilly and Michael Jones. Current at-large representative Randy Pogue has decided to not to seek re-election to the seat and is instead running for the mayor's seat. Early voting begins April 24, and election day is May 6.

Occupation:

I am senior partner at Philips & Epperson Attorneys, L. P. I am a licensed attorney within the state of Texas and the state of New Mexico, although I primarily practice in the Collin County District Courts and I am board certified in family law.

Why are you running for McKinney City Council?

I am running for City Council to pay back all of those who have served in the same roles over the years that I have raised my family in this great city, and I am running to make McKinney better for future generations.

What issues do you feel the city will face within the next few years?

The city has and will continue to face the struggles of massive growth along with the ability to fund the growth and continue to provide the superior quality of life that McKinney has always been known for.

If elected, how would you address those issues?

I would handle the issues facing McKinney the same way I have handled legal issues facing hundreds, if not thousands of people; first, listen and understand the problem before you act and do not commit to a solution until you adequately understand the wants, needs and concerns of the people you represent; secondly, obtain as many facts and as much data as you possibly can in order to analyze the situation; and finally, make sure that you are dealing with the issue in the most appropriate manner and means available within time constraints you face.

What qualifications do you possess that make you a prime candidate for the position?

I have 23 years of experience here in McKinney, Texas, and the majority of my life has been spent in this area. I am familiar with McKinney and many of its residents. I have been actively involved in the community through nonprofit organizations, civic volunteer organizations and my church. I also possess a bachelor of science in architecture, a masters of architecture, and a doctorate of Jurisprudence, a lifetime of problem-solving experience, and I also possess some common sense and people skills.