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Three people are running to represent Place 6 on Manvel City Council. The candidates answered questions related to their priorities ahead of the May 3 election.
What you need to know
Garrett Rossi Knox, Robina L. Spruill and Kathryn Ducommun are running for Place 6, according to filings from the city.
Incumbent Jerome Hudson did not file as he is not eligible for reelection in 2025 due to city code only allowing for a council member to serve three consecutive terms.
Candidates 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. Candidates are ordered alphabetically by last name.
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.
To see the Q&A for candidates running for Place 4, click here.
Editor's note: This story has been updated to provide more context on incumbent Jerome Hudson not being eligible to run for office.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Better roads, better drainage, a well-equipped police force, more parks/green space and the protection of our historic trees. Manvel is a fast-growing city with many needs, narrowing down to a single priority is impossible … we simply need too many things to be protected and improved.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
I would like to see our city prioritize parks and recreation more. Also, we must continue prioritizing our city services while also lowering taxes. I would like to see more budget town halls. We could take these ideas on the road and present them to various [home owner associations].
How can Manvel deal with its growth in a fiscally responsible way?
Owning a small business and running two others has taught me the importance of balancing a budget. … I like numbers. Manvel will continue to grow and bring in sales tax. Managed growth is something I support. I will not rubber stamp every development that comes before the council.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
Anything drainage related. The city has plans to shift water away from [Hwy. 6] further south to a planned lake/retention pond. I'd like to see Manvel buy up land in low-lying areas and create natural wetlands that serve as both a natural habitat and a water collection site.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Manvel in the coming years?
The loss of our image due to overdevelopment. I preach "translating our image" often. We need leaders who listen to the concerns of the citizens and help to slow the rapid changes. I want to see a balance between the new and the old parts of Manvel.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
If elected, I’ll prioritize balanced growth for Manvel by improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses and enhancing safety. My goal is to invest in parks, recreation and quality services while preserving our small-town charm. I want every resident to feel heard, valued and connected in our community.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
I support a responsible budget that addresses our community's needs while ensuring financial sustainability. I’ll advocate for greater transparency and citizen involvement in budget decisions. My focus is on allocating more resources to infrastructure and public services to manage growth responsibly without burdening future generations.
How can Manvel deal with its growth in a fiscally responsible way?
Manvel's growth is promising but requires a responsible plan focused on infrastructure, schools and public safety. I support strategic partnerships and seeking state and federal funding for key projects. Growth must align with our ability to provide essential services, ensuring we maintain our quality of life.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
In the next term, I’ll prioritize infrastructure projects like road expansions and repairs to manage increased traffic safely. Improving water and sewer systems is essential for sustainable growth. I also support investing in parks and recreational facilities to enhance residents' quality of life.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Manvel in the coming years?
Manvel's rapid growth challenges our infrastructure, schools and services. To preserve our small-town feel, we need proactive, data-driven planning. I’ll prioritize thoughtful decisions and inclusive discussions to manage growth responsibly, ensuring we retain what makes Manvel a great place to live.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
My biggest priority is our drainage and new inclusive parks because both have been personal challenges faced growing up in Manvel. I have been advocating for our home and neighbors for years with new development and proper drainage for all of us.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
I really would love to find more grants that’ll allow our taxes to make sense. I am all about finding the money for our kids. As a single parent, I’ve learned to go find the solution and not focus on the negative. My question is always, “how can I help?”
How can Manvel deal with its growth in a fiscally responsible way?
We have to make better deals with developers. We can’t continue to take a hit on property taxes and see no real benefit. We need to ask more in-depth questions and make sure the language in contracts [is] appropriate.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
Our roads need to continue to be a priority. We have some that need to be widened because it’s a safety hazard, specifically off Scott Street and Masters [Road]. It is dangerous for the school bus drivers to pull out from there. Our kids also need to be made a priority.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Manvel in the coming years?
A lot of our wildlife is running out of places to go with development. Hopefully we can find a solution to maintaining some rural areas for them. I plan to help however I can.
