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Two people are running to represent Place 4 on Manvel City Council. The candidates answered questions related to their priorities ahead of the May 3 election.
What you need to know
Incumbent Edward Perry is running against Carmyn Robey-Robinson.
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.
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 candidates running for Place 6, click here.
An asterisk indicates incumbent.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
Continue collaborative council efforts to plan and execute managed, smart growth strategies that will promote the expansion of healthy economic development and generate revenue for funding infrastructure development and maintenance, staffing and equipment needed for quality city services provision while also easing the financial burden to our citizens.
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
Less reliance on revenue from ad valorem property tax, and employment of more creative ideas and critical thinking to access revenue from other funding sources such as increased sales tax revenue from smart business development, intergovernmental transfers, grants, sensible public-private partnerships and reasonably priced licenses and fees.
How can Manvel deal with its growth in a fiscally responsible way?
Continuing to incorporate community feedback into the development of our strategic and comprehensive plans while conducting accurate and thorough analysis of market and demographic data to enable us to make informed and transparent decisions on what areas to responsibly allocate funding in amounts that will not create revenue crises.
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?<br>
Continuing roadway repair and maintenance, addressing drainage with detention pond projects, maintaining, improving flow through ditches, channels, waterways for efficient water runoff and flood mitigation, engagement with Texas Broadband Development Office to improve connectivity in our area, extending city water and sewer service availability, expanding and improving public green spaces.
What is the biggest challenge you see for Manvel in the coming years?
Effectively and efficiently meeting the service demands of the continuing explosive growth that we are consistently experiencing each year, and maintaining a healthy balance of supplying amenities needed and desired in the suburban area of our city while also preserving the beautiful rural and semi-rural environments of our city.
What will your biggest priority be if elected?
<br>My top priority is smart, strategic growth—ensuring that as Manvel expands, we do so in a way that strengthens our community without placing unnecessary burdens on residents. This means attracting more dining and entertainment options, supporting both local businesses and not just big chains, enhancing technology infrastructure, and preserving the…
What changes, if any, would you like to see to the city's budget?
I’d like to see a more strategic approach to budgeting that prioritizes economic development and city-owned community spaces. By investing in revenue-generating projects—such as attracting businesses that boost sales tax income—we can build a more sustainable financial future while lessening the tax burden on residents.
How can Manvel deal with its growth in a fiscally responsible way?
Manvel must balance growth with financial responsibility by fostering public-private partnerships, securing grants and state funding, and ensuring new developments contribute their fair share to infrastructure. Encouraging commercial development will help diversify our tax base and reduce reliance on residential property taxes. Additionally, gaining more citizen oversight and consistently gathering…
What infrastructure projects would you like to see prioritized in the next term?
Road improvements and traffic management to handle increasing population and reduce congestion. Enhanced broadband and cellular service to support residents and businesses.<br>Parks and community spaces to create gathering places that contribute to our quality of life and local economy. Drainage and flood mitigation efforts to prevent future issues as…
What is the biggest challenge you see for Manvel in the coming years?
Manvel’s biggest challenge will be managing rapid growth while preserving our community’s identity and financial stability. For residents who have called Manvel home their entire lives, change can feel uncomfortable and even overwhelming. That’s why it’s crucial to find the right balance—bringing in the convenience and opportunities of city life…
