Community Impact reached out to the candidates to get their perspectives on what priorities they would bring to the job.
What you need to know
Greg Seidenberger, a longtime Guadalupe County commissioner for Precinct 1, is not seeking re-election. The Republican was first elected to the position in 2012.
Precinct 1 covers much of the Guadalupe County side of New Braunfels and reaches to the northeastern portion of Seguin and into McQueeney. Precinct 1 also stretches to the southern part of the county, bordering Gonzales and Wilson counties, according to Guadalupe County maps.
Early voting for the Nov. 5 election begins Oct. 21.
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.
Jacqueline “Jackie” Ott
Experience:
Property, real estate and business law attorney, former assistant Guadalupe County attorney, extensive community involvement
Occupation:
Attorney and judge
Candidate Website:
https://www.ott4texas.com
Contact Information:
830-444-0388
Why are you the best choice for the job?
I have unique, directly on point experience for a county commissioner. Through years as an attorney for Guadalupe County, I am already familiar with its departments' functions and needs. I am deeply invested our community's prosperity as a Christian, mother, and business owner.
What is the most important issue facing your constituents, and how do you intend to address it?
Public safety! With dedicated, hard work. We must prioritize funding to enable law enforcement and first responders to do their jobs effectively, and quality roads for everyone's efficient transport. Swift response to issues that arise, open communication with the public, county departments, and staying up to date with available technology.
What strategies do you have for improving emergency response services and public safety in the county?
Remaining active with community groups, making myself continually available and open minded for discussion, attending meetings of emergency response teams, and ensuring they are appropriately funded. Holding firm to a position that represents the needs of the people. Remaining educated on current events and effective financial management.
Are there any specific infrastructure projects you believe are crucial for the county’s development?
Maintenance and development of well-maintained roads are crucial for ingress and egress as our county continues to develop at a rapid pace. This is crucial not only for emergency responders to reach citizens in times of need, but for our quality of life on a daily basis.
Nahomie Alanis
Experience:
Political photographer for elected officials, member of Guadalupe Progressive Coalition
Occupation:
Technician student
Contact Information:
830-708-7436
Why are you the best choice for the job?
I believe I’m the best choice for the job because, as a young elected official, I will properly prepare this county for future generations. As a Spanish speaker, I will advocate for the Mexican community, eliminating language barriers when addressing the court and fostering stronger connections with residents.
What is the most important issue facing your constituents, and how do you intend to address it?
The most important issue facing my constituents is rapid growth, which impacts infrastructure and services. To manage this growth and ensure future generations can live comfortably, I will advocate for sustainable zoning, enhance public facilities, and engage residents in planning to create a balanced community that meets everyone’s needs.
What strategies do you have for improving emergency response services and public safety in the county?
To improve emergency response services and public safety, I will invest in updated technology for better communication, enhance community outreach programs to educate residents, and ensure adequate funding for emergency services. These strategies will create a more prepared and responsive community.
Are there any specific infrastructure projects you believe are crucial for the county’s development?
Yes, several infrastructure projects are crucial for the county’s development. First, we need to urgently improve the connection of our roads to I-10 and I-35, especially since that project is set for completion in 2028. Additionally, investing in modern public facilities and improving water and waste management systems is essential for sustainable growth.
Nolan Schmidt
Experience:
District 21 State Libertarian Executive Committee representative, vice chair of the Libertarian Party of Guadalupe County
Occupation:
Substitute teacher
Candidate Website:
https://www.nolanhenryschmidt.com
Contact Information:
830-660-7357
Why are you the best choice for the job?
I am a native and longtime resident of Guadalupe County. Since my youth, I’ve seen this county grow to what it has become today. I have a little over 7 years of leadership experience from both the Guadalupe County Executive Committee and serving on the State Libertarian Executive Committee.
What is the most important issue facing your constituents, and how do you intend to address it?
There are families with individuals with special needs out there who want the help for their children and adults who have a disability. If elected, I aim to assist in the creation of an outreach program to connect these families with local nonprofits aiming to assist them.
What strategies do you have for improving emergency response services and public safety in the county?
I strongly believe that we need to bring in more voluntary sponsorship and funding to improve emergency response services. This can lower taxes throughout the county as one major goal the commissioners court aims for is to be fiscally conservative. Doing this will bring our county more in that direction.
Are there any specific infrastructure projects you believe are crucial for the county’s development?
Several of the county roads had damage for years, and the caveat is that it costs money to repair them. I would like to assist in the creation of a countywide voluntary crowdfunding based system (like GoFundMe) that focuses on getting our roads fixed without the need of tax money.
