Q&A: Meet the candidates running for Bellaire City Council Position 3

Why are you running for Bellaire City Council?

Over the past four years, City Council has stabilized and reinvigorated city government, addressed community concerns proactively and advanced transformative initiatives to improve public safety, protect our community from flooding and address long-term infrastructure needs and financial risks. I am running for re-election to ensure that progress continues.

How will you ensure Bellaire is prepared for extreme weather and flooding?

Recently, we adopted new floodplain management ordinances to ensure new development is built to withstand future floods, and we secured $54M from the State of Texas to implement our Regional Drainage Improvement Program. Through partnerships and grants, we will continue to protect our community and drive down flood risk.

What do you think are the biggest issues facing Bellaire residents right now, and how would you look into addressing those challenges?

In addition to infrastructure and flood protection, we need to continue to adapt to the changing needs and demands of the community. For example, we recently expanded the police force to bolster public safety, adding four new officers and funded a second ambulance unit to ensure fast EMS response times.

What projects are most important for City Council to focus on for the future of Bellaire?

As a 100 year-old city, infrastructure renewal represents a critically important but costly responsibility. This year, we addressed our aging wastewater treatment facilities in a manner that reduced both near and long-term financial obligations. Continuing to make smart infrastructure decisions will allow us to continue to invest in other priorities.

What are your core priorities if elected?

To continue to prioritize and enhance public safety services. To deliver on our infrastructure priorities in the most cost-efficient manner. To continue to provide top-notch services to Bellaire residents. To continue to invest in the amenities and activities that make Bellaire special. To continue to promote community and togetherness.

Why are you running for Bellaire City Council?

I offer the council something it has never had: firsthand experience running a business. I have managed employees, balanced budgets, met payroll and solved problems under pressure. I understand how decisions affect small businesses, workers and families, and I will bring that practical perspective to city leadership.

How will you ensure Bellaire is prepared for extreme weather and flooding?

Solving the 100-year flood is unrealistic. Spending over $200 million may not prevent future damage and risks wasting taxpayer money. I support practical, cost-effective improvements to drainage and emergency response that will actually help residents without bankrupting the city.

What do you think are the biggest issues facing Bellaire residents right now, and how would you look into addressing those challenges?

Rapidly rising property taxes, while great for the city, hurt the average and fixed-income families. Aging infrastructure remains neglected, and no one is watching how taxpayer money is spent. I’ll push for financial oversight, prioritize repairs and advocate for policies that protect residents from being priced out of their own community.

What projects are most important for city council to focus on for the future of Bellaire?

Focus on realistic flood control, not fantasy solutions. Involve residents in planning and supporting local businesses. Create a welcoming environment for new businesses to invest and grow in Bellaire, strengthening our economy and preserving the city’s character. Community-driven development must guide every major project.

What are your core priorities if elected?

Bring business-minded leadership to set realistic goals, protect taxpayers, and avoid burdening future generations with debt. Focus on transparency, infrastructure and responsible budgeting to ensure Bellaire thrives without sacrificing long-term financial stability. Residents deserve smart planning that reflects both current needs and tomorrow’s challenges.