Three candidates are vying to become the next mayor of Fulshear in the May 4 election as Mayor Aaron Groff, who took office in 2018, ends his term limit after serving the city of Fulshear for six years.
Candidates running for mayor of Fulshear were asked to fill out questions and answers 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.
For more information on the election, visit the city of Fulshear’s website.
Joel M. Patterson
Experience:
U.S. Navy veteran, City Council District 4 since 2018, mayor pro tem, Fulshear [Economic Development Corporation] board of directors
Occupation:
Retired from the oil and gas industry
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/joelforfulshear
Contact Information:
281-734-8510
Why did you choose to run for mayor of Fulshear?
I am deeply committed to Fulshear’s future. A resident for 14 years, District 4 city councilman since 2018 and mayor pro tem, I have the passion and experience to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Ensuring Fulshear continues a place we all love and are proud to call home.
What is your top priority if elected to represent the citizens of Fulshear?
My top priorities are stabilizing city hall; responsible and sustainable economic development of the downtown district; water and wastewater infrastructure; mobility; drainage and flood mitigation; and recreational facilities for youth baseball and softball.
What do you think is the most pressing issue for local residents, and what will you do to address it?
The most pressing issues for local residents vary by geographic location. Flood mitigation and drainage; mobility; water quality and water pressure; and poor cellular data coverage. The last 12 years of unprecedented growth is the key factor for all of these issues. All are being addressed via various initiatives.
Water is a big focus for the city of Fulshear right now, so how will you work with City Council to address water concerns?
The water pressure issues are being resolved by upsizing to a [16-inch] water line from Plant [No.] 1 to Huggins Road and to FM 1093. Tamarron West water plant is nearing completion and will provide their own water. Additional interconnect with [Cross Creek Ranch] and upsized water line up James Lane.
Don McCoy
Experience:
Leadership, business advocacy, community development, creative marketing, promotions, public relations, master of ceremonies, volunteerism
Occupation:
President/CEO of the Fulshear Katy Area Chamber of Commerce
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/votedonmccoy
Contact Information:
469-688-3269
Why did you choose to run for mayor of Fulshear?
I chose to run for mayor of Fulshear because I'm deeply committed to serving our community. My role as chamber president/CEO uniquely prepares me to address local needs, bridging governance and business for a stronger, more prosperous community.
What is your top priority if elected to represent the citizens of Fulshear?
If elected, my top priority is to truly represent the citizens of Fulshear by actively listening to and understanding their wants and needs. I will prioritize genuine engagement, ensuring that decisions are made based on the community's voices, not my own agenda.
What do you think is the most pressing issue for local residents, and what will you do to address it?
The most pressing issue for local residents is likely our rapid growth. To address it, I'll prioritize sustainable development, attracting and retaining businesses, improving infrastructure and enhancing quality of life. But first, I'll listen to residents to ensure our actions align with their needs and aspirations.
Water is a big focus for the city of Fulshear right now, so how will you work with City Council to address water concerns?
I'll collaborate closely with City Council to address water concerns by implementing comprehensive planning, sustainable practices, investing in infrastructure and fostering partnerships with relevant stakeholders to ensure Fulshear's water needs are met effectively and responsibly.
Dominic Giametta Jr.
Experience:
Business leader and organizer
Occupation:
Sales executive
Candidate Website:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557257547659
Contact Information:
N/A
Why did you choose to run for mayor of Fulshear?
I grew up in this town and I love my city. I have a unique perspective of where Fulshear has been and where it needs to go. My passion for this town will help other decision makers for Fulshear find that same enthusiasm for the town and its future.
What is your top priority if elected to represent the citizens of Fulshear?
[The] mobilization of some of the necessary plans for the town. We have great ideas for what Fulshear can become, we just need to get off dead center and get going. From parks and recreation to historical preservation, our downtown district and water infrastructure.
What do you think is the most pressing issue for local residents, and what will you do to address it?
The rapid increase in population and what that does to our community. It is a great thing to see Fulshear grow, but the unsustainable pace we've created coupled with a lack of infrastructure creates both a safety issue and pushes us further from the goal of creating a prosperous small town.
Water is a big focus for the city of Fulshear right now, so how will you work with City Council to address water concerns?
My role would be to help guide our city manager and city staff to ensure we do our due diligence in properly vetting our contractors performing the work, and arm the council members with good information and the necessary data to make swift and calculated decisions.
