Meet the Shenandoah mayor candidates for the May election

What will your priorities be if elected as mayor?

Complete the two major traffic projects under final funding approval—David Memorial Drive extension to Hwy. 242 and the Research Forest/I-45 intersection—and maintain the level of financial responsibility and transparency that has brought it under budget projections for the past four years.

How do your experiences qualify you for mayor?

I have served as a commissioner in our planning and zoning board and a current council member. These positions have given me knowledge of Shenandoah’s needs. I have executive management experience while working as the deputy assistant director of foreign operations in the DHS Office of International Affairs. I have also served in the U.S. Army Reserves where my last assignment was as command sergeant major of a corps support battalion.

What do you see as the main issues facing Shenandoah?

The fast pace of growth and keeping up with what growth brings. The demand on our infrastructure such as drainage, sewage, water and transitory crime. I plan to continue my wholehearted support of our Shenandoah Police Department as they have proven to be such an important part of our public safety.

What will your priorities be if elected as mayor?

Inflation is off the charts. I will proactively look for ways to cut spending since inflation will negatively impact budget projections and could even decrease projected sales tax revenues. I will focus on public safety, traffic issues and how we can be more effective in fighting crime in business districts. I plan to hold two or three town halls per year and keep regular office hours at City Hall.

How do your experiences qualify you for mayor?

My 25-year legal career enabled me to develop and excel in skill sets that are needed in the mayor's office such as listening, leading and looking for solutions. I have learned from experience how to resolve conflicting positions by listening to both sides and finding common ground. I have had key roles in successful negotiations with leaders of many types of entities, ranging from small businesses to federal agencies and Fortune 500 companies.

What do you see as the main issues facing Shenandoah?

Increased traffic and crime, especially catalytic converter theft. With four new multifamily developments either under construction or recently completed, we will add 2,500 to 3,500 new residents, potentially doubling our population. I would like to host roundtables with small-business owners and get their ideas to combat the recent spike in property theft crimes and host events to strengthen community support for [SPD].