The winner will serve a four-year term in the position previously held by Joe Machol, who is running for Clear Creek ISD board of trustees District 1.
What you need to know
Candidates running for at-large Position 6 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.
Summer Sanford
Experience:
elected to HOA [home owners association] and philanthropic boards, banking and business development experience, small business owner
Occupation:
self-employed
Candidate Website:
https://www.summer4seabrook.com
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Economic growth that strengthens Seabrook’s financial future. With Hwy. 146 complete, we can strategically invest in business development, intentionally boost tourism and expand our tax base to lower tax rates. A thriving economy, strong public safety and community-driven beautification will ensure Seabrook remains a vibrant place to live and work.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
Seabrook’s financial position is strong, with a solid bond rating, healthy reserves and strong debt coverage. Looking forward, we have a great opportunity to develop a long-term plan that includes investments designed to encourage business development, expand our tax base and ultimately lower tax rates while maintaining a thriving …
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
Absolutely. A strong economy comes from both supporting existing businesses and attracting new opportunities. By investing thoughtfully in growth, we can boost tourism, fill hotels and increase revenue for local businesses. A thriving Seabrook requires a balanced approach that strengthens our economy and eases the tax burden on residents.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
We must prioritize the needs of our first responders, ensuring they have the resources to keep Seabrook safe. A new police station and expanded fire and EMT services are essential. Strong public safety and business infrastructure go hand in hand, making our city a great place to live and work.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
Balancing Seabrook’s small-town charm with economic growth will be a key challenge. The Seabrook’s citizens need to collectively figure out who we are and who we want to be in the future. This identity will ensure we strategically plan for our economic future today and the tomorrows to come.
Kyra Burton
Experience:
business and political science college courses, PTA [parent teachers association] executive board, management and financial training experience
Occupation:
homemaker
Contact Information:
[email protected]
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
My priority is to put new city management in place and return the position of EDC [Economic Development Corporation] director, as I feel our most immediate need is a revitalized economy that makes sense for our small city by the water. I want to also determine a strong city identity and prioritize beautification.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
Our ad valorem tax ratio is wildly out of balance. The taxpayers are paying the bulk of our revenue when businesses should make up about half of that revenue. Because of stagnation in economic development over many years the majority of the tax burden falls on our private citizens.
Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?Do you feel Seabrook needs to bring in more business or visitors to the city?
We absolutely must bring new business to fill existing retail space and new visitors to maintain businesses and balance our tax revenue. We don't want to be Kemah but we can benefit from our vicinity to Kemah and NASA. There's potential to create an identity with those ideas in mind.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?<br>
I want signage up at the entrances and throughout Seabrook. I want our beloved pier rebuilt. I want public boat access independent of the TxDOT [Texas Department of Transportation] access that will take years to be completed. I want sidewalks in Old Town to make a walkable, family-friendly community space central to Seabrook.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Seabrook in the coming years?
Jackie [Rasco], JP [Byers] and Angela [Cervantes] and I believe that it will take drastic change, a new majority council with vision and hard work to usher in a better future for Seabrook and regain trust.
