4 questions for the Williamson County Commissioner Precinct 3 candidates

Growth is a big issue along with the debt. I believe that re-prioritizing the existing budget will help to better fund living wages and benefits to all county employees and staff.

Why should people vote for you? 

My strong ties with the community; desire to improve our standard of living; and [belief] in honesty, integrity and transparency makes me the right candidate for county commissioner Precinct 3.

What is your first order of business if you get elected?   

[My first order would be to] work on better living wages for the employees of Williamson County and [add] more services for our veterans. Also [to] better [the] working relationship with the local government.

Valerie Covey (Incumbent) Experience: More than 10 years serving as a county commissioner, certified public accountant for more than 30 years

Why are you running for county commissioner?

The Commissioners Court acts as an executive board of the county. The continued growth of Williamson County requires professional leadership and long-term planning skills that I would continue to help provide. It would be an honor to continue to serve the citizens of Williamson County and see through some important transportation, infrastructure and mental health projects.

What are the top issues the county is currently facing?

The continued growth in the county requires long-term planning for transportation and infrastructure needs. I have supported the adoption of a long-range transportation plan and funding to get it started.  Also important is effective budgeting and debt management. I have voted to reduce the tax rate [and] at the same time retiring additional debt of $20 [million] over the prior two years, [which saved] $10 million.

Why should people vote for you? 

As a conservative, I strive to keep spending under control. In 2015 and 2016, I led the charge to reduce voter-approved debt by a total of $20 million, saving taxpayers approximately $10 million. Communication is emphasized by an open-door policy. I work closely with other entities thus accomplishing goals in areas of transportation, veteran services and mental health.

What is your first order of business if you get elected?   

If re-elected, I will continue to address the county’s growth by working on road bond projects that are in progress, including the Southwest Bypass to relieve traffic on the west side of Georgetown, intersection improvements at D.B. Wood and Hwy. 29, bridge improvements at Ronald Reagan/I-35 and CR 305/I-35 and the widening of Inner Loop from Churchill Farms to Maple Street.

Candidates’ responses were edited for space.