Candidates were asked to keep responses under 75 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.
Jai Daggett
Experience:
Pearland Comprehensive Planning and Action Committee member, Keep Pearland Beautiful Board member
Occupation:
Business owner
Candidate Website:
www.jaidaggett.org
Contact Information:
713-444-7932
What should the city's budget priorities be going into the next fiscal year's planning cycle?
I believe that the city should evaluate the current spending priorities and adjust accordingly based on recent developments.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
To focus on the needs of the majority of Pearlanders and foster an environment of trust and collaboration.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
My desire to represent the people of Pearland comes from dedication to my environment and my relationships with my fellow Pearlanders. Choosing to raise my family in a community that reflects my interests and values is paramount to my decision making.
Alex Kamkar
Experience:
Real estate manager, first-term incumbent
Occupation:
Real estate
Candidate Website:
www.alexkamkar.com
Contact Information:
346-367-2914
What should the city's budget priorities be going into the next fiscal year's planning cycle?
The city's priorities should be driven by two things: keeping families safe and what we can afford. Pearland, like your family and mine, must live within its means so we don't burden our children and seniors with crippling debt caused by unnecessary spending. Our public safety priorities are bolstering the training opportunities for our world-class police department and strengthening our drainage infrastructure to keep our families and property safe from encroaching crime and high water.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
Pearland families deserve immediate tax relief and an increase in our miniscule homestead exemption: Currently a mere 2.5% of your home’s value last updated 15 years ago. It must be increased to $40K per home. We need to prepare for the issues of the future in public safety with more tech to assist [the Pearland Police Department] and proactive drainage improvements. I will fight for a Pearland that keeps taxes in check, streets safe, and homes dry.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
I have a proven record of fighting for taxpayers in two budget cycles. I’ve been an effective advocate for cutting wasteful spending while investing heavily in things that matter most for safety: public safety and drainage. That’s why I’ve been endorsed by the Pearland Police Officers’ Association in both of my races. A vote for me is a vote for an independent voice at City Hall working effectively to keep taxes low and your family safe.
Antonio Johnson
Experience:
Pearland Economic Development Corp. board, Pearland Prosperity Strategic Plan Implementation Committee
Occupation:
Health care executive
Candidate Website:
www.antonioforpearland.com
Contact Information:
832-736-7703
What should the city's budget priorities be going into the next fiscal year's planning cycle?
The city’s budget priorities going into the next fiscal year’s planning cycle should be focused on sustaining public safety and creating long-term solutions to drainage and water.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
If elected, my priorities will be working to create transparency between city government and citizens; promotion of small and large businesses through business-friendly processes; and ensuring needs related to quality infrastructure, safety, mixed-use districts, and beautified spaces are met.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
I am a servant leader who is willing and able to work with all citizens, city staff, and current elected officials. I prioritize being transparent and practicing accountability in all situations which helps to build trust with people.
Rushi Patel
Experience:
Certified public accountant, chief financial officer
Occupation:
Hospitality executive
Candidate Website:
www.patelforpearland.com
What should the city's budget priorities be going into the next fiscal year's planning cycle?
Focusing on needs and not wants. Finding alternative means to pay for infrastructure projects instead of raising taxes.
If elected, what would be your priorities?
Economic development, infrastructure, financial discipline.
What makes you the best candidate for the job?
My experience and background within our community. I live, work, and own businesses in Pearland along with serving on several local boards over the last 22 years I have lived in Pearland.
