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Editor's note: This story has been updated to include John Gary Johnson's Q&A responses and to clarify that Johnson was interested in participating.
Two candidates will run for Seabrook City Council At-Large Position 4 seat on May 3.
The winner will serve a four-year term in the position previously held by Michael Giangrosso, who didn’t file for reelection.
What you need to know
Candidates running for At-Large Position 4 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.
Kim Morell filed to run for Position 4, but later withdrew his bid.
Also of note
To read the Q&A for Seabrook Mayor, click here.
To read the Q&A for Position 1, click here.
To read the Q&A for Position 2, click here.
To read the Q&A for Position 6, click here.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
My biggest priority if elected will be community involvement. Our citizens are our greatest asset and if a city actively engages and listens to the people, it will foster great ideas, trust and a city where people feel valued and want to live and invest.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
Professionally, I have been responsible for bringing budgets out of deficit and into profitable margins. This is done by evaluating line-item spending, identifying areas of waste and adjusting accordingly. This needs to be followed by quarterly posted budget reports that are transparent and understandable.
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
First and foremost, Seabrook needs to foster trusting and stable relationships with current businesses that have invested in our community. We also need to focus on bringing new businesses into pre-existing buildings. To increase commerce, we need to create a flagship attraction that facilitates and highlights our charming coastal vibe.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
Rebuild the Pine Gully Pier. Since its destruction in 2021, it has not been a Seabrook priority. Joe Machol constantly pushed for this, but he and Jackie Rasco have been outnumbered. If elected, I will continue to push for completion. Additionally, more parking and a better road design in downtown...
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
Navigating [Hwy.] 146 expansion losses, recent disannexation of port property and high level of debt our city has accrued. To overcome, we need to beautify Seabrook entrances, like [Hwy.] 146 feeder roads and Nasa R[oa]d, add signage to entice/welcome visitors and work with industries in Seabrook for resources to….
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Economic growth and development have been and [are] the biggest challenge facing the city of Seabrook. Economic development requires a thoughtful, comprehensive approach to make our community a more attractive place to live, work and play. Fostering a positive business environment and encouraging sustainable growth to ensure Seabrook becomes an…
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
Transparency is a core value I believe is essential for building trust between city government and its residents. City planning requires long-term perspective, and budgets need to be developed with that perspective in mind, all the time ensuring that our city can meet its financial obligations with accountability and goals…
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
Economic development is a key driver of our community's prosperity and quality of life. It involves policies, programs and initiatives that create an environment conducive to growth and improve Seabrook's overall well-being. I am committed to reinvesting in our infrastructure, supporting minority and women-owned businesses, and promoting our city to attract…
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
Work to enhance and reconfigure main street and improve safe pedestrian connectivity and optimize the parking including signage, lightning, landscaping and community space. Continue to work with [the Texas Department of Transportation] and the completion of the community boat ramp. Support the design and construction of a modern police station to improve working conditions…
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
As our city grows, it is essential that we maintain a safe environment for our residents. By preventing crime, promoting community engagement and investing in public safety infrastructure, we can enhance the well-being of our citizens. We must consistently work to enhance and expand our tax base and future development…
