Q&A: Meet the candidates running for Hays County District Clerk

Why are you running?

To triage and help fix the problems of the last two years. I would create processes, procedures and systems for the office to prevent future turmoil. The inevitable successor of this position, whether Democrat or Republican, would then have the tools necessary to be successful on day one.

What is the most important issue facing residents and how would you address<br>it?

An exuberant amount of taxpayer money is spent outsourcing inmates awaiting trial. I will provide the courts all documents and case filings in a timely manner and improve the jury service experience. This will allow courts to efficiently set hearing dates and conduct speedy trials.

If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?

We start with being more effective and efficient as an office through training and cross-training. To handle increased records requests I will create internship opportunities to supplement my staff, and then automate the process. This would give us capacity to provide additional passport services to the public.

If elected, what would be your top three priorities?

Return the office to full compliance; create an online records search option that will provide the public and attorneys access to documents from home or work; and improve the jury service experience for all.

Why are you running?

I am running because the best way I can serve our county is to contribute my 11 years of experience in the Hays County Criminal Justice System to the District Clerk’s Office. Hays is my home and I want to use my expertise to ensure we continue to thrive.

What is the most important issue facing residents and how would you address it?

The most important Issue facing the district clerk’s office is the community not having faith in the office to do its job and know that it will be executed timely and correctly. Restoring that trust with the community will be our goal before the remainder of term is complete.

If elected, how do you plan to address future growth?

The office staff should grow in tandem with the growth of the county. Without the immediate resources of additional staff we will need to ensure we have highly efficient operating procedures to ensure all work is done swiftly and correctly. Incorporating timesaving technology and effective training will be critical.

If elected, what would be your top three priorities?

My top three priorities are to immediately address high priority Issues experienced by legal professionals and the public, to develop a systematic training procedure for staff to increase knowledge and have consistent operating procedures, and to ensure we are meeting all standards and reporting requirements required by law.