Q&A: Get to know the Bexar County commissioner Precinct 3 candidates

Why are you the best choice for the job?

I bring a business mindset to solving county problems, and we get things done. In the last 2 budgets we've added over 130 law enforcement officers to help fight crime and improve public safety. I also led efforts to provide a 20% homestead exemption for taxpayers.

What is the most important issue facing your constituents, and how do you intend to address it?

Public safety and rising crime is our most important issue. We have addressed this with over 130 new law enforcement officers and additional investigators, prosecutors and resources for the crime lab. We will continue to prioritize public safety for our community.

What other issues are a high priority for you?

I've highlighted the need for Bexar County to address its long term debt and reprioritize our budget and capital plan in order to keep taxes low. As leaders, elected officials must take responsibility and lead in identifying priorities and making hard decisions so we can maintain our AAA credit rating.

How will the latest law enforcement funding updates in the Bexar County budget work operationally, and are those changes important to public safety?

The 130 new law enforcement officers will provide additional geographic patrol districts around the county which will lower response times and provide deterrence to would-be criminals. This presence will reduce crime. Investments in the crime lab and our courts will help expedite justice for victims of crime.

Why are you the best choice for the job?

Homeowner in same house in Castle Hills for 37 years. Raised two children who attended in the NEISD schools. Small business owner for 35 years understanding both public and private sector commitments to our metro area.

What is the most important issue facing your constituents, and how do you intend to address it?

Regional planning, natural resource protection and smart development: Precinct 3 has become a desirable place to live. Now we have bloated highways and infrastructure in need of repair. We can’t just plan catch-up, we need to plan for growth while protecting water and natural resources.

What other issues are a high priority for you?

Augmented transportation solutions: Is there anybody who lives or visits Precinct 3 who does not complain about the traffic? I will seek an active role on the AAMPO and all other intergovernmental and nonprofit organizations to advocate for new transit options.

How will the latest law enforcement funding updates in the Bexar County budget work operationally, and are those changes important to public safety?

The latest law enforcement funding updates have yet to be fully implemented so I’m not sure if these additional positions solve the problems. Public safety includes how to respond to & reduce crime and gun violence, maintain a responsive court system and run the county jail safely, fairly and efficiently.