Local · Trusted · Free
The Morning Impact — your neighborhood's most important stories, delivered every morning.
In the May 3 election, the city of Universal City will have three City Council seats on the ballot.
What you need to know
Running for the seats are incumbent Ashton Bulman, incumbent Christina Fitzpatrick, incumbent Bear Goolsby and Patrick Day.
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.
More information on the May 3 election can be found on the Universal City website.
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
Using our new comprehensive plan to guide votes, enhancing city services for residents and businesses and implementing long-term economic strategies to maintain low property taxes while preserving our community’s unique character. These initiatives will ensure sustainable growth, improved quality of life and a thriving future for our city.
How do you handle differing priorities within the community?
I will ensure priorities align with our city’s new comprehensive plan while enhancing city services. I listen to all perspectives, consider long-term benefits and make balanced decisions that serve the greater good rather than just individual interests. My goal is to foster unity and sustainable growth for our city.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
I approach collaboration by staying informed on current and historical matters, actively listening and engaging in thoughtful discussions. I ask probing questions, consider present and future community needs and remain open to compromise. I was one of three council members who attended Mayor Maxwell’s September collaboration workshop.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
I strongly support community involvement and was one of three council members who voted for the comprehensive plan, ensuring residents can share their input. This plan will guide future decisions. I welcome calls and emails, actively engage with the community and seek resident feedback to shape our city’s future.
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
Lower taxes, keep unnecessary spending to a minimum and fight for less restrictive ordinances and permits
How do you handle differing priorities within the community?
When handling competing priorities, I decide based on my values of maximizing the freedom of our residents and businesses.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
On the dais, I appreciate when everyone states their position and thought process. City stakeholders know that I will always answer their emails or phone calls. I will meet with them, especially if an agenda item affects them and they want their voice heard.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
I co-host Guide Your Council two Sundays a month, for the past 2 years. We invite residents to go over the agenda item by item. Resident input is so important when it comes to making any decision. I believe every voice, issue or concern is of the utmost importance.
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
1. I would like to see our comprehensive plan adopted and moved forward. 2. I hope to see a resolution to how the golf course and conference center is utilized for the community. 3. To see UC continue with the directed growth we've experienced over the last few years to help reduce the tax burden.
How do you handle differing priorities within the community?
I try to find a middle ground, or a way for one to help foster the other.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
The bigger issues tend to be a back and forth negotiation, looking for the greatest benefit for the most citizens.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
The comprehensive plan! It's so easy to have your voice heard.
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How do you handle differing priorities within the community?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.
