Election 2021
Wimberley ISD
Place 1
Andrea Justus
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Justus: I want to continue the tradition of Wimberley schools being a top destination for teaching talent that nurtures and draws the best out of all children through exceptional core instruction, diverse extracurricular offerings, high levels of parental involvement and practical real-world opportunities for students to flourish in their God-given abilities. This means thoughtfully reviewing curriculums to ensure they are age-appropriate and free of polarizing ideologies, nurturing and growing the skills of all teachers, budgeting to reward and retain top talent, and offering more technical and trade options to students.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?
Justus: Our next superintendent must possess the ability to listen and lead with care and compassion while being a strong and decisive decision maker. A critical part of the process is ensuring we hire someone that aligns with the values of our Community and has a deep understanding of the educational needs of children of all ages and backgrounds. I will seek input from parents, teachers, students and taxpayers as part of the process. Some specific characteristics I will be looking for in this person are integrity, passion for education, commitment to excellence, fiscally responsible, humility and fearlessness.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them?
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Moreland: WISD’s approach at the beginning of the school year was to act as though the pandemic were over. I was somewhat disappointed in WISD’s largely hands-off approach. Since then, as a result of the
Justus: I think WISD will have to face tough decisions on how we balance what should be paid for and supported in a public education system verses what should be taught at home and left for parents to decide. I think we should provide a safe environment that focuses on teaching foundational subjects like reading, writing, and math as well as offer opportunities to experience the arts, music, the trades and athletics. We need to teach to the whole child and help to uncover and encourage their gifts, skills and abilities so they become productive and confident members of our Community.
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Justus: I do agree with the district’s current policies and protocols as it relates to COVID-19. Decisions on masks and vaccinations should be the sole responsibility of the child, parent and their health provider. The district is providing clean, well ventilated classrooms with hand washing stations and hand sanitizer as well as opportunities to get exercise a fresh air. We should also continue to ensure our breakfast and lunch menu contains nutritious, well balanced meals to support the health and well-being of all kids.
WV: The district’s discrimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Justus: I do not support adding gender identity to the list of protected classes. Gender is already on that list. Protected classes are there to prohibit discrimination for things that are immutable and protected in our Constitution. Science is clear that there are only two genders, male and female, and no one can biologically change their chromosomes to become another sex, therefore I don’t see any need to add that to the list.
Lori Olson
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Olson: Our school board makes decisions as a team. No individual can accomplish anything without the support of their fellow trustees. If re-elected, I will work with all board members to continue to uphold the tradition of excellence at W.I.S.D. My focus remains on keeping our academics strong, keeping our teachers and staff well-equipped to do their jobs, and ensuring the health and safety of our students. I look forward to continuing to work with the board to discuss the issues that come before us in a constructive way that promotes transparency and upholds the public trust.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?
Olson: W.I.S.D needs someone who can lead our district forward, bridge the gaps within our community, and bring us together for the mutual benefit of our children. I will look for someone who is an experienced, competent professional, and a good communicator. I will look for someone who has a strong reputation and positive history with their former districts and staff. Most importantly, I will be looking for someone who can inspire trust and respect among all of the families in our district, someone who will listen to our community and help us chart the path ahead.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them?
Olson: Wimberley has a huge opportunity on the horizon with the selection of our new superintendent. This choice will set the tone for our schools and inform the way that we handle all future challenges. W.I.S.D. will need to stay on top of managing our population growth and the fiscal health of our district. We will need to focus energy on meeting the needs of our diverse student body, and making decisions that will best serve our entire community. We need thoughtful, reasonable, and experienced trustees at our board table who will put our children’s needs first.
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Olson: I deeply understand the difficulties that these past eighteen months have brought to our schools. The board and administration have been put in the unenviable position of having to balance often conflicting government mandates and parental concerns, and process a multitude of scientific data and information. This has been tough, but we must acknowledge that we are all genuinely concerned for the health and well-being of our children. We need to listen to, be respectful of, and empathize with one another. I will continue to do my best to make factbased, community-minded decisions that can move us forward, together.
WV: The district’s dis crimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Olson: After this vote occurred, in June of 2020, our employee discrimination policy was updated to prohibit discrimination against any employee “on the basis of sex” for being “gay or transgender” (gender identity), based on the Bostock v. Clayton County case decided by the Supreme Court of the United States (2020). Our “Legal” policies are updated regularly by the Texas Association of School Boards, according to applicable state and federal laws and court decisions. These policy updates are further reviewed by our district’s legal counsel, to guide our “Local” policies. And yes, our students absolutely deserve the same protection from discrimination.
Place 2
Edmond Moreland
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Moreland: I want to start a return to civility that has been the hallmark of life in this town until recently. I will offer respectful dialogue with those who have differing points of view as a way of building and revitalizing community here. I want to see the District augment its current CTE offerings in an effort to meet current work demands, anticipate increasing demand, and offer practical skills and careers to students. I want to implement and supplement the District’s efforts to support social-emotional learning among students, an area of particular concern due to the various dimensions of the pandemic.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?
Moreland: I would like someone with a proven track record of being inclusive, invested in the success of all students, egalitarian, communicative, fiscally responsible, willing to advocate for students, parents, faculty, and staff, accessible and approachable, goal-oriented, able to set aggressive, but achievable goals, able to effectively coordinate and manage the work necessary to achieve those goals, and a person of integrity. For most of my 24-year labor and employment law career, it has been a significant part of my practice to compare the qualifications between and among similarly situated applicants or employees. I will bring that experience to this decision.
Moreland: The biggest challenges start with the recent breakdown of community. As I have said throughout this campaign, I would address them by encouraging open, honest dialogue between and among people and groups with differing views. One of the most contentious debates has involved the District’s COVID protocols. This debate has pitted parents against each other. Through open dialogue, parents can come together to craft solutions that are acceptable to everyone for the sake of the school community and the community at large. I will work to foster that kind of dialogue in our community through whatever challenges we face together.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them? type of community dialogue that I have been advocating for, conversations occurred among the District, parents, the COVID Task Force, and the SHAC. As a result, WISD has made several important changes that are inclusive of more points of view. More recently, I am encouraged by WISD’s willingness to listen and make appropriate shifts to its COVID policy. I will encourage more of these conversations.
WV: The district’s discrimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Moreland: No. In 2020, the Supreme Court held in Bostock v. Clayton County that the prohibition against discrimination “because of . . . sex” under Title VII includes discrimination because someone is homosexual or transgendered. After Bostock, the Department of Education stated that Title IX likewise prohibits discrimination on the basis of one’s sexual orientation and gender identity. The TASB has issued similar guidance. Thus, “sex” in WISD’s current policy includes “gender identity” as a protected class; and what would be a contentious debate over the inclusion of that phrase will not result in a policy change that provides any more protection from discrimination.
Place 3
Rob Campbell
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Campbell: The number one reason I am seeking re-election is to ensure that every child receives a quality education—every child. Next, I will oversee the district’s resources in a fiscally conservative manner. For the past three years, the WISD trustees lowered the tax rate. I want to continue this practice. Third, while distractions are inevitable, I desire to keep the main thing, the main thing—supporting WISD’s students, teachers, parents/guardians, and administrators. Being recognized as an exemplary district is an important goal. Finally, I look forward to securing a new Superintendent for the years ahead. WISD has a bright future.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?
Campbell: I desire a superintendent who is a visionary, bridge-builder, astute listener, effective communicator and has a proven track record. Clothed with humility, s(he) demonstrates the proficiency to lead the WISD faculty and staff with excellence, has a sincere love for students and wholeheartedly engages the Wimberley community. Working alongside the Board, the new superintendent will embrace a genuine commitment to lead with integrity, faithfully guiding WISD into a promising future. At the end of the day, s(he) is respected and affirmed for empathizing and listening to a diverse community that we all love— Wimberley, Texas.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them?
Campbell: First, hiring a new Superintendent, his/her working relationship with the Board, and how s(he) leads the WISD staff and interfaces with the community are pending challenges. Next, taking appropriate steps to safeguard student and staff health is necessary. Third, WISD consistently faces challenges balancing monies received from the State legislature with the funds sent out from WISD because of Chapter 49 of the Texas Education Code, which “recaptures local tax dollars from property-rich districts and redistributes the funds to property-poor districts.” This payment from WISD totals $2.4 million this year! Additional transfer students will reduce this payment slightly.
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Campbell: I do. WISD installed air filtration systems on our campuses last year. This cost totaled nearly $500,000. Currently, the WISD’s Covid-19 Task Group working in conjunction with the Student Health Advisory Council (composed of parents and co-chaired by two healthcare professionals), set forth five protocols. The Covid Dashboard is also updated daily. WISD’s maintenance and custodial teams sanitize each campus providing clean spaces for our students. While there is no “sliver bullet” for the eradication of Covid, WISD is doing many things well. Ultimately, I believe that parents know what is best for the health and safety of their children.
WV: The district’s dis crimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Campbell: Before the November 18, 2019 Board meeting, legal counsel from the Texas Association of School Boards (a free service to WISD) explained that Title IX protects ALL students, and it was unnecessary to add “gender identity.” TASB’s legal counsel also noted that WISD’s existing discrimination policy included “Gender-Based Harassment” (FFH, Local). The majority of Trustees agreed. On September 21, 2020, the Board voted again on the same issue resulting in no change to the district’s discrimination policy. Inserting such clauses or descriptors into the existing discrimination policy is unnecessary as ALL students are protected due to Title IX.
Gretchen Holtsinger
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Holtsinger: I want to see WISD come back from the setbacks of the COVID pandemic even better and stronger than it was before. This means closing gaps in student achievement due to lost instructional time and getting students back to school with robust supports for individual learning and social-emotional needs. I want to see WISD become the school of choice for all students within its attendance zone and transfer students, by ensuring a safe learning environment and maximizing educational opportunities for student success in the 21st century. For that to happen, it is critical WISD hires the best possible superintendent.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?
Holtsinger: School success makes community success. The new superintendent must be an experienced instructional leader focused on academic achievement and student success. It is critical that he/she maintain open lines of communication with all district stakeholders and include the voices of diverse members of the community to meet the needs of every student WISD serves. He/ she must prioritize being the employer of choice in Central Texas, committed to recruiting and retaining highly qualified teachers. It is also important to have a leader who is well versed in the complexities of school finance to ensure wise allocation of district resources and funds.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them?
Holtsinger:
1. External pressures on local decision-making
I would collaborate with other board members to keep district decision-making local.
2. Teacher shortage
I would work to ensure an optimal environment for teaching and learning and the best compensation packages possible. Teacher input should be valued and included at all levels of decision-making in the district.
3. Student shortage
WISD must offer a healthy and safe learning environment and the best educational pathways for student success in the 21st century to attract all students within its attendance zone.
4. Financial constraints
If we take care of 1-3, these will be minimized.
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Holtsinger: WISD staff members have done an outstanding job during the pandemic. Teachers went above and beyond teaching students face-to-face and remotely with both synchronous and asynchronous learning models. They were front-line essential workers focused on keeping students from falling behind and making up for lost learning when they did. WISD is blessed to have a strong and dedicated workforce, even during challenging times. In terms of improvements, I think the district could have put in place better channels of communication, been more responsive to public health data, and followed CDC guidelines more closely as necessitated by the local district data.
WV: The district’s discrimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Holtsinger: Anti-discrimination laws are enacted at the federal level. School boards set policy to comply with those laws, regardless of individual trustees’ opinions. According to DIA, addressing discrimination, harassment, and retaliation against WISD employees, “In accordance with the law, discrimination based on sex includes discrimination on the basis of biological sex, gender identification, sexual orientation, gender stereotypes, or any other prohibited basis related to sex.” FFH prohibits “discrimination or harassment against students based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or other basis the law prohibits.” If elected, I would support district policies in compliance with federal law.
Nathan Cross
WV: What do you want to accomplish if elected?
Cross: When elected I will strive to continue the long-standing tradition of excellence both in academics and extracurricular programs within WISD. I will encourage school administrators to retain and recruit more world class teachers. I would like to improve how lesson plans are presented by standardizing the process in which this data is delivered, making it easier on the staff and parents. I will keep personal freedoms and liberty intact by always voting for parents to have a choice when it comes to medial decisions for the family.
Cross: The incoming superintendent will have an enormous impact on the trajectory and culture of WISD. This person needs to fit in with our existing policies and align with the values of our community. I will be looking for someone with a proven track record of performance and results. Dwain York doesn’t live behind his desk, he makes visits to each campus daily, if not multiple times per day. I’ll be looking for the same work ethic in our new superintendent. I will ensure feedback from the parent survey is implemented into the interview process as well.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think WISD will face in the coming years and how would you address them?
Cross: The biggest challenges I can see facing WISD are centered around medical freedoms, safety of the staff and students and finding middle ground. Managing the Covid-19 virus has driven a wedge in our community, mostly because we have different sources of truth that lead us to have different points of view. Personal choice and responsibility are the best path forward. Enforcing mandates will only cement the current divide, whereas preserving personal liberty provides flexibility and moves us in the right direction. We need respect and grace, not additional mandates.
WV: Do you agree with the way WISD is currently handling issues related to COVID-19? If so, why? If not, what would you do differently?
Cross: I applaud how the district is currently approaching and dealing with the issue of COVID-19. I believe that there are adequate policies in place that address sanitation and safety via the purifying air filters, hand sanitization stations, posters reminding students about social distancing and the option to wear a facemask or face shield. Additional options are also available for students that meet the age requirements for vaccination if the parents of that student chose to do so. I will restate my opinion on the necessity of being able to make personal medical decisions for oneself and family.
WV: The district’s discrimination policy “prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,” but it does not explicitly include gender identity as a protected group. In a 4-3 vote, the Board of Trustees voted against adding “gender identity” to the policy in 2019. Do you support adding gender identity as one of the protected groups in the discrimination policy? Why or why not?
Cross: Current policy ‘Prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law,”. There are existing protocols in place to report discrimination and clearly, gender identity is covered under current policy. Furthermore, the more time our district focuses on nuanced issues the less time we spend focusing on academics. WISD has become socially and politically charged because we bring issues like this into the spotlight. You cannot legislate human decency.
Woodcreek Mayor
Jeff Rasco
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
Rasco: 1. Bringing our city together. The past several years have seen us being torn apart, and too much “us vs. them” around town. I believe we are neighbors of good will, and if we really listen to each other, we can work together to reach our goals.
2. I want to “put the brakes on Woodcreek traffic.” We have increasing cut-through traffic, and some of those non-residents are not respectful of our peaceful neighborhood. We will calm traffic, selecting the best among so many options available. New road projects will include safety measures in the planning, instead of requiring retrofit.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
Rasco: 1. Protecting our scarce iconic waters and the economy and way of life they support. Development takes broad collaboration to address, including working with our water utility to keep our water clean and abundant.
2. We’re still lagging in technology. As a recently retired events-technology CEO based in the Woodcreek ETJ, I will deliver better two-way communication with our citizens. We’ll further upgrade the website for citizens and city staff ease of use.
3. Fixing the roads and paying for them, with open dialog.
4. Securing revenue to provide city services without destroying the character and charm of our city.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course?
Rasco: Our zoning of the golf course is for recreational use, and any requested change to that zoning will be hard fought. I just don’t see it happening. The golf course is a cherished part of Woodcreek, adding to our green space, and is the source of significant tax revenue. I’ve been a golfer here for nearly 30 years, and we have lived full-time on the course for 25. This is important to all of us. We will work to keep it a first class golf facility, and a successful venture for the new owners and the city.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
Rasco: Our citizens overwhelmingly want our roads in good repair, and safe. We can pull together to make it happen. Gathering in town halls to discuss road plans and funding options is a welcome step. Protecting the character of Woodcreek means main taining and upgrading our green spaces, parks, and other natural beauties. It also means limiting development. When asked, Woodcreek citizens said they would like to see a restaurant in the city or ETJ, but the next most popular answer was “none of the above.” We want to “Keep Woodcreek Woodcreek,” and I will provide the leadership to do so.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
Rasco: We will follow through with our city engineers and citizen roads committees on road repairs. We’ll need to make some hard choices on how to pay for them, and hear from our citizens in town halls as to their preferences. We all have to invest to make it happen. Tax bonds give voters a direct voice to do things in a big way, but they come with higher taxes in order to get the work done. Woodcreek Drive is progress, at last, and we need to continue with a long view, tackling our road repairs persistently and strategically.
Aurora LeBrun
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
LeBrun: Citizens have identified the condition of roads in Woodcreek as the most critical issue. Repairing the streets would be my top priority. I have already begun this process as Mayor Pro Tem, including holding town halls to present options for the project, including financing options, and to ensure citizens are involved and concur and support the project and process. As part of this project, and with funds from the American Relief Act, I would address drainage is-sues throughout the City that cause flooding in some areas, as well as erosion of our street surfaces.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
LeBrun: Citizens have identified the top five challenges facing Woodcreek, and I concur. Roads, Keep the Character of the City, Improve Pedestrian Mobility; Protect the Trees, and Drainage Issues. I am already working on the roads, including pedestrian mobility and drainage. I supported a new budget item for 2022 that provides financial assistance to citizens who lose a tree to oak wilt or other disease to replace that tree, and I will work to enforce the tree ordinance and expand protection to Heritage trees. I will work to restore our sense of community by holding frequent town halls and community events.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course?
LeBrun: Quicksand is one of two properties in our City that is zoned “recreational.” This zoning classification is defined as golf courses, youth camps and allows for tennis courts, swimming pools, and other items that are recreational. Once the sale is completed, as Mayor I would welcome the new owners and would work with them to meet the citizens’ wishes to keep the course operational and successful. In our Comprehensive Plan Survey, the golf course was rated very high as one of the items residents like most and in their comments the citizens supported the course remaining as a recreational activity.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
LeBrun: The goals of the Plan must address the citizens’ wishes: Fix the roads, including pedestrian mobility and safety. Strategies to keep the character of the City while acknowledging growth and changes in our population. Protect the trees and natural beauty. Improve our parks and green spaces with options for all ages. Simplify City Ordinances and improve access to City services including simplification of administrative practices. I would include a timeline for implementation of these goals. This timeline would include quarterly progress assessments by an independent Citizens’ Workgroup shared at Council Meetings, our website, and town halls.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
LeBrun: I chaired an Advisory Group that assessed and ranked all streets. This assessment was confirmed by the City Engineering firm, and a priority for repairs has been established. There are about 8 miles of streets in Woodcreek, and cost for major repairs with asphalt is $500,000 per mile. Adding pedestrian mobility and traffic calming options increases this cost. Financing is a challenge and since it affects the citizens ,I am currently leading town halls to obtain citizens’ input on available options. We would begin with collector streets, with 1 or 2 exceptions on smaller roads rated high for repairs.
Woodcreek City Council
Nancye Britner
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
Britner: • Preserving the golf course as a golf course to maintain our recreational opportunities and quality of life we all enjoy in Woodcreek. Not only is Quicksand critical to our quality of life, the course is also a revenue generator for the City, which lessens the burden on the tax payers.
• Improving our streets • Addressing drainage – our streets provide drainage conveyance; as we improve the streets, we should also improve drainage conditions
• Improving our streets
• Establishing community center, pool, and parks
• Keeping our small town, hill country charm and natural beauty
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
Britner: The biggest challenges in the coming years are to protect and preserve our wonderful quality of life we all enjoy in Woodcreek. If elected, I will continue my previous work to improve our streets and traffic conditions, keep our small town charm, establish parks, and preserve recreation at the golf course. Given the growth and change underway in the Wimberley Valley, it’ll take someone with significant experience, knowledge of the community, leadership and determination to make this happen. My experience on the City Council and having owned a business gives me the qualities necessary to successfully represent Woodcreek citizens.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course?
Britner: I am committed to keeping the golf course as a golf course and have the voting record to show it. Woodcreekers who want the golf course to remain a golf course should vote for the candidates who have supported the course, which includes myself, Bob Hambrick and Aurora LeBrun. The City Council has final say in the use of the property and also have the authority to appoint members to the P&Z Commission who also have a voice in the use.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
Britner: The most important aspects of the Plan are to ensure that we keep the golf course as a golf course and to improve our streets and drainage. I also want to lessen the tax burden of our fixed-income residents and this can be accomplished with the addition of retail development in our ETJ. Improving and maintaining our quality of life in Woodcreek is important to me, so I would also like to see a community center, pool, and parks in the Plan.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
Britner: I have been part of the city leadership that has maintained a low maintenance and operations tax rate to have the least financial impact to the citizens. I believe we should continue to maintain a low tax rate and the most fiscally responsible way to accomplish this is to extend the tax notes while maintaining the same debt tax levy or to put this to a vote of the people to issue a bond financing the repair the streets at one time. The City has a well-developed plan from previous and current roads advisory committees that have prioritized the work.
Bob Hambrick
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
Hambrick: The first priority is to complete the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. According to the results, the citizen’s top priorities are street improvement, maintaining the city’s character, and improving pedestrian/bicycle mobility. The Comprehensive Plan will be a blueprint for planning for many years. Our roads will take funding priority, and the next two are also very important. Ongoing efforts in two way communication between citizens and the city is also high on my list. I am also looking forward to a new era of civility and consensus in the city council, the August 25th council meeting being the best example.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
Hambrick: Funding for street improvement and possibly parks and open space development would be of utmost importance. Doing this without increasing the tax rate appears to be the will of the people, and I would support that. Limited retail, including a restaurant at the golf course and selected business concerns in the Extra Territorial Jurisdiction could serve to increase our revenue stream. Commu nity preparation in case of extreme weather condition emergencies must continue to be addressed as I believe our weather may continue to present life-threatening situations, including water and power outages.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course?
Hambrick: l believe the city’s ability to control zoning and keeping the golf course zoned as recreational will give the golf course little choice but to continue as a golf facility. The city would continue to strive to maintain a strong positive relationship with the golf course as it has helped to create an atmosphere of sportsmanship and comradeship enjoyed by citizens as well as a multitude of visitors from miles around.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
Hambrick: The citizens of Woodcreek have stated by way of the comprehensive plan survey that improving roads, maintaining the character of Woodcreek, and improving pedestrian and bicycle mobility are the top three issues. The next three issues include protection of the beautiful trees, drainage issues, and traffic calming measures. I believe it is the duty of government to listen and follow the desires of its citizens.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
Hambrick: This week, the City of Woodcreek will be holding two town hall meetings in which we will be asking the citizens for input on how we should fund road repairs. Two of the possible solutions are extending the current tax note, or initiating a bond issue. I would not presume to know the will of the citizenry, and look forward to hearing and considering other funding alternatives.
Brent Pulley
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
Pulley: I want to keep working for an open and transparent government – one that RESPECTS and LISTENS to its citizens. In addition, I am worried about the increased traffic and speeding that is a danger to our com munity and to our families. We have to start focusing on how to solve this problem and protect our neighborhood. Lastly, I love our Hill Country community and I want to help preserve it. I love hiking these hills and swimming in the Blanco and the Cypress. I hope we can leave that legacy for the generations that come after us.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
Pulley: Our challenge is to deal with the growth that is coming our way. We need to meet this challenge with intelligence - and with strength and a strong backbone - to defend our Valley, our values, and our way of life. We CANNOT allow our community to be turned into a Houston-like suburb. I will fight with everything I have to protect our community and our Hill Country. I fought against the new Brookmeadow high-density development, and I will keep fighting in the future.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course?
Pulley: Our golf course is the heart and soul of Woodcreek. I really look forward to working with the new ownership - and doing all we can to support them. As we continue to work on our streets, I would like to see the golf cart crossings made more visible and safer. We should also work with new ownership if they want to upgrade the clubhouse and the course facilities. The City of Woodcreek should strive to be a good partner with the golf course and with the new owner ship.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
Pulley: What struck me the most in the survey results was the deep love folks expressed for our community, for its natural beauty, and for our Hill Country. Sometimes, you wonder: why on earth do you want to run for City Council? But hearing from people and then understanding that we DO have a lot in common, and that we DO care so much about this place – that made me so happy to be from Woodcreek. THIS is what hit me right in the heart, and it made me a little stronger for the election.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
Pulley: Road repair is expensive but a core function of local government. It is REALLY important to listen to our citizens on how to pay for the repairs. That decision should not be made behind closed doors - as it was before. I look forward to hearing from taxpayers on this. We can “pay as we go” or look at financing options. Whatever we do, we need to hear from the people who are ultimately going to pay the bill. Most importantly, we have to build streets for a NEIGHBORHOOD – ones that we can walk and enjoy with our families.
Debra Hines
WV: What are your top priorities if elected?
Hines: Renewing public trust and restoring confidence in our local leadership are fundamental. Promoting transparent government takes frequent, kind, and informative communication. Mine is a fresh perspective and revitalizing energy to respond and advocate for our citizens. These are our friends and neighbors, they will be welcomed and heard. We must prioritize road improvements, address pedestrian safety in a meaningful way, and preserve the character of Woodcreek. Strengthening our commitments to groundwater preservation and participating in the Wimberley Valley Trails project can unite our greater Valley and enhance Woodcreek. Promoting parks and community building are essential.
WV: What are the biggest challenges you think the city of Woodcreek will face in the coming years, and how would you address them?
Hines: Healing division and repairing broken trust between our community and its leadership will take time; that work begins immediately. Intentional, informed decision making will guide us as we craft a long-term plan to pay for roads and address key drainage issues. We can be more efficient, economical, and collaborative while we build community through park improvements, walking trails, and events. Negotiating better franchise agreements and urging service providers to upgrade our infrastructure are practical steps. Focusing on a prudent, balanced budget that provides essential services while allowing for regular investments into our reserves will work to create sustained wealth.
WV: Quicksand Golf Course is expected to come under new ownership. What ability does the city have to ensure it continues to operate as a golf course and what do you believe the city should do in relation to the sale or new ownership of the golf course
Hines: The golf course is central to our town. Supporting local businesses is very Texan and I am all in. Direct responsibilities our City representatives hold: maintain positive, frequent communication with the new owners and serve as a helpful liaison between property owners and the golf course management. Beyond that, I look to our resident golfers for a bright future; they have the commitment and experience. I would encourage the new owners to have an active presence and direct role in the management. It is always nice to run into the owners and I hope they embrace partnership with our community.
WV: Woodcreek’s 2040 Comprehensive Master Plan is under development. What do you believe are the most important aspects that need to be included in the future plan?
Hines: Besides roads, parks, and walking trails, our survey respondents, representing about 50% of our population, want to preserve our natural beauty and limit commercial de velopment. Traffic calming measures were repetitively mentioned along with a demand to improve our franchise agreements and infrastructure. For City services, the open public comments highlighted several areas that need attention. We need to reflect on our code compliance process with the goal of promoting customer service for our residents. Responsive communication, transparency and access to city officials have room for improvement.
WV: How do you think the city of Woodcreek should go about repairing the roads in Woodcreek, and how would you pay for it?
Hines: Town Halls are crucial for gathering essential feedback from the citizens. Everyone knows road repairs are expensive and the need for repairs is pressing and widespread. How we plan to pay for them has to be a community effort. With that in mind, I would encourage citizens to consider a general bond so that we may all vote directly on the matter and receive funds in a timely manner. Trying to save and pay from reserves will take many years. Extending our tax notes results in more immediate funding, yet it lacks the direct influence of a public vote.
For the city of Woodcreek City Council Election, eligible voters will be allowed to vote for one or two candidates. The top two candidates recieving votes will win election to the two open seats on the council.
WV: The next school board will select the superintendent to replace Dwain York. What qualifications do you think are most important for the next superintendent, and how will you go about making your decision if elected?