Positions 1, 2 and 3 in the Magnolia City Council are up for election, and the three incumbents intend to put their names on the ballot for an additional term. Jeff Chumley, Position 2, and Richard Carby, Position 3, filed their applications last week while Councilwoman Anne Sundquist, Position 1, has informally announced her intentions.
"There is a lot of change happening in Magnolia already and with the current City Council we have come from a deficit to almost $1 million in the reserve. I want to keep the same momentum going," Chumley said.
Finishing his first full term, Chumley said he hopes the public will elect him to a second. He said he wants to focus on improving the city's infrastructure, including utilities and maintenance on parks and public areas. He has lived in Magnolia for more than 12 years and owns Chumley's Towing and Recovery as well as helps control traffic during the Texas Renaissance Festival.
At the Jan. 8 City Council meeting Richard Carby was appointed to Position 3 following the resignation of Chris Schod, and hopes to earn a full term. Carby served previously on City Council and is a veteran of the U.S. Army. He has lived in the city for 17 years.
Sundquist was elected in May 2011 and is involved in several other community organizations, including the Hotel Occupancy Tax Committee. Although she has not officially filed for re-election, Sundquist said she plans on continuing to serve the city if voters see fit.
"I am looking forward to it," she said. "It has been a great experience working with a positive group of people and a positive administration."
To file for a position on the Magnolia City Council, individuals must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Texas for at least one year and of Magnolia for six months prior to the filing date. The deadline for candidates to file is March 1. Election Day is May 11. To view more information and download an application visit the City of Magnolia's website.