What you need to know
Candidates running for mayor were asked to complete a questionnaire from Community Impact. They 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.
The last day to register to vote is April 3 and early voting will begin April 22, with election day on May 3, according to the Texas Secretary of State’s Office.
Jackie Rasco
Experience:
community engagement, public service, budget management and financial planning and strategic planning, and...
Occupation:
business administrator
Candidate Website:
https://jackierasco.com
Contact Information:
[email protected]
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Economic development is my top priority—supporting existing businesses, while attracting new ones that add value to our city and residents. I’ll work to strengthen our economy, encourage smart growth and ensure long-term sustainability. A thriving business community benefits everyone, increasing revenue and enhancing the overall quality of life.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city’s budget?
I want to take a comprehensive look at the city’s budget to ensure financial responsibility and transparency. I would advocate for a forensic audit and the formation of an auditor committee to identify inefficiencies, eliminate unnecessary spending and ensure taxpayer dollars are being used effectively to benefit our community.
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
Yes, I believe for Seabrook’s economic growth, attracting more businesses can create jobs, increase tax revenue and improve local amenities. Bringing in more visitors could also boost the hotel and tourism industry, support local restaurants [and] shops and attractions. A balanced approach, supporting sustainable business growth while preserving the city’s character.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
The city’s infrastructure priorities should support residents, businesses and visitors. Key projects include waterfront enhancements, such as rebuilding Pine Gully Pier and the public boat ramp, improving trail and sidewalk connectivity, adding an anchor grocery store on Repsdorph [Road] and promoting commercial development at The Point [District].
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
Seabrook’s biggest challenge is balancing growth while preserving its coastal charm. Managing infrastructure, traffic from Hwy. 146 expansion and flood mitigation while supporting economic development is crucial. Environmental resilience against hurricanes and rising sea levels will also be key to maintaining the city’s long-term sustainability and quality of life.
Jim Sweeney
Experience:
30 years of small business and governance experience, chairing business, civic and...
Occupation:
small business owner
Candidate Website:
https://Sweeney4Seabrook.com
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Preserve Seabrook’s Coastal small town feel while promoting smart development. I will use my existing relationships to assist our businesses to prosper, while continuing the work the city is doing with the redevelopment of Main Street and walkable Old Seabrook. This will be a catalyst to attract businesses to our city.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city’s budget?
Approximately 33.5% of the general fund comes from residential property taxes. To offset this, we must attract viable businesses to our limited commercial spaces. Our city’s finance department maintains fiscal stability, as evidenced by the strong balance of reserves set aside for future emergencies.
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
Both. To attract more visitors, we first improve commercial buildings to bring in businesses that reflect our coastal character. This can help jumpstart a thriving eco-tourism industry, leveraging our trails, parks and unique birding reputation to create a vibrant, sustainable destination attraction.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
The Main Street redevelopment project, the Waterfront Development and [a] walkable Old Seabrook. These projects, along with signage improvements coming into and around the city, will encourage other aesthetic changes, especially along the Nasa Parkway corridor and in Old Seabrook.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
To protect city interests, we must negotiate smart development deals that generate revenue and add green space buffers. Strategic commercial development is essential to preserving our parks and neighborhoods while supporting emergency services and police to keep our city and community safe and secure.
