Q&A: Meet the candidates running for Magnolia mayor

Why did you decide to run in this election?

I decided to run because after having my company in the city limits and watching the growth without infrastructure that helps all the people of the city, I knew we needed better planning. Our community deserves transparent leadership, smarter development, improved public safety, and a stronger voice for every resident.

What is your top priority, if elected?

My promise is different—I want the public actively involved in shaping our city’s future. Local businesses built this town, and smart growth means having leadership that protects and supports them. We must address outstanding issues, strengthen public safety, and ensure infrastructure keeps pace with responsible growth.

What do you think are the two biggest challenges facing Magnolia?

The two biggest challenges facing Magnolia are managing rapid population growth and outdated infrastructure. Our roads, utilities, and public services are struggling to keep up, and with limited state support for road expansion, it’s crucial that we plan responsibly and invest locally to meet the needs of our growing community.

How would you approach Magnolia’s growth and development?

I will lead Magnolia’s growth responsibly—prioritizing local businesses, fixing infrastructure, and tackling overdue projects first. We’ll cut incentives for big corporations, bar planning and zoning members from profiting while in office, and separate city council from being on the planning and zoning committee at the same time.

What should Magnolia’s budget priorities be?

Magnolia’s budget must prioritize safety, infrastructure, and smart growth—ensuring roads, utilities, and emergency services meet our community’s needs. We must work in partnership with Magnolia ISD, protect taxpayers, and plan for the future. Funding parks, programs, and long-term development keeps Magnolia vibrant, resilient, & a place where families and businesses thrive.

Why did you decide to run in this election?

Having served two terms on city council, I believe this experience has provided a foundational understanding of how government functions, which is critical for effective leadership at the mayoral level. A well-informed leader can better advocate for policies that serve the community’s long-term interests.

What is your top priority if elected?

The city’s critical infrastructure needs urgent upgrades, including a wastewater plant and additional lift stations. Past administrations neglected these topics, leading to deteriorating water lines and lift stations. Addressing these issues is essential to support the growing population and meet current standards and ensure reliable services.

What do you think are the two biggest challenges facing Magnolia?

Aging infrastructure (water/sewer/roads). I will continue to communicate with TxDot to stay on track regarding the FM1488 expansion. Rapid growth. I’ll continue working with developers to ensure that infrastructure and community needs are addressed.

How would you approach Magnolia’s growth and development?

A majority of the city is already in development phases with new homes and businesses. We are going to have to focus on the right growth for our city to support this. Increasing the sales tax base will help to improve our city.

What should Magnolia’s budget priorities be?

With the significant growth recently, it is imperative that we upgrade our infrastructure to keep pace. This includes modernizing water and sewer systems, repairing roads, and enhancing stormwater management. These improvements are essential not only for today’s needs but also for ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for our community.

Why did you decide to run in this election?

I chose to run because Magnolia is growing rapidly, and the city needs leadership that plans ahead, protects infrastructure, and ensures development strengthens rather than strains the community.

What is your top priority, if elected?

My top priority is addressing Magnolia’s water and infrastructure challenges, such as ensuring responsible management of aquifers, drainage, detention, and long-term costs, so the city remains stable for future generations.

What do you think are the two biggest challenges facing Magnolia?

Water and infrastructure capacity, including aquifer over pumping, flooding, and sewage limitations. Managing growth and transportation, especially as development increases traffic and strains existing roads.

How would you approach Magnolia’s growth and development?

I support growth that is well-planned, community focused, and held to high standards. That means ensuring zoning, building standards, water access, parks, and infrastructure are in place before approving new development, and working only with builders committed to long-term community success.