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Three candidates are running to lead Brazoria County government for the general election Nov. 3.
The overview
Rob Giesecke, the Republican candidate, will face Democratic candidate Eugene Howard and Independent candidate Lucinda Henry for Brazoria County judge.
The office of Brazoria County judge—which oversees Brazoria County Commissioners Court and governs the county—is currently held by Matt Sebesta, who is not seeking re-election.
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 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.
Commercial estate broker
Why are you running for office?
I’m running to put my common sense leadership to work for the citizens of Brazoria County. When I ran for Port Freeport Commission, I promised voters that I would eliminate the Port’s property tax, cut wasteful spending and put term limits on port commissioners. I kept all of those promises.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priorities will be lower taxes, public safety, and investing in flood mitigation and road improvements. My tax relief plan includes putting a ceiling on the county tax bill for seniors and the disabled, cutting wasteful spending and requiring voter approval before any new debt is issued.
What is one of the biggest challenges facing Brazoria County, and how do you plan to address it?
One of the biggest challenges is the county jail. It’s nearing capacity, and as our population increases that will only get worse. We must find a cost-effective way to add beds and keep the criminals locked up without breaking the budget. That will require fiscal discipline and a business-minded approach.
How should the county prepare for incoming development and growth?
The county must set long term goals and plans to avoid being overwhelmed by growth and congestion. Looking at the future impacts of decisions made today has been an important part of my experience at Port Freeport, and that long term perspective will be essential for Brazoria County.
Non-profit business owner
Why are you running for office?
I am running to deliver 21st-century CEO governance with a community-first mindset. I don't want to raise taxes, but I do want to raise investment. Brazoria County needs accountable leadership to enforce a no-new-revenue rate, modernize infrastructure and unite our diverse communities around shared prosperity.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Infrastructure modernization: Regional road expansion along key corridors to relieve severe traffic congestion, increase accessibility, and support safe travel for residents; Grid and water security: Protect crucial utility services through smart tax abatement agreements and proactive advocacy in Austin to preserve county autonomy; Public safety and flood preparedness: Modernize emergency ...
What is one of the biggest challenges facing Brazoria County, and how do you plan to address it?
Severe traffic congestion along the 288 and 35 corridors and countywide flooding are critical challenges. I will address them by expanding regional road capacity, upgrading drainage networks through targeted grants and reforming tax abatements so major developments fund infrastructure, not strain it.
How should the county prepare for incoming development and growth?
We must focus on "Innovation over Expansion." We should demand high-barrier growth, partner with industry to create a local HazMat emergency response team, upgrade infrastructure before approving major developments, and build a high school-to-apprenticeship pipeline with local unions, colleges and industry for north and south county students.
Physician assistant; small business owner
Why are you running for office?
Brazoria County needs independent leadership that is not tied to political parties, special interests or political action committees. I want voters to have another choice and leadership that puts the people of Brazoria County first.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priorities are protecting taxpayer dollars, taking a hard look at county spending and ensuring we spend responsibly. I want to support small businesses, strengthen infrastructure and keep Brazoria County a place where families can afford to live and grow.
What is one of the biggest challenges facing Brazoria County, and how do you plan to address it?
One major challenge is the growing property tax burden on homeowners. While the county does not control appraisal values, Commissioners Court sets the tax rate. I will focus on disciplined spending and keeping the county tax rate as low as responsibly possible.
How should the county prepare for incoming development and growth?
New development should help support the infrastructure it requires. I will carefully evaluate tax abatements and support incentives only when they bring real jobs, real growth and lasting benefit to Brazoria County residents.
