Woodcreek City Council Top 3 votes received win seat

WV: What are your top priorities if elected?

LeBrun: My top priority, based on my own experience and citizen input, would be water and sewer services and their cost. The current provider has failed to complete system improvements to stop leakages and water loss. Rates are higher than those of similar cities. Two recent outages proved the lack of system safety and back up while leaving our citizens without water during a very hot summer. The current contract ends in 2020, and it is time for Woodcreek to begin the process to replace the current system and provider. I will work to achieve change that will benefit our residents.

WV: After the construction of Brookhollow, what do you believe needs to be done to repair or replace the rest of the roads in Woodcreek and how would you pay for it?

LeBrun: The infrastructure of Woodcreek was neglected for many years. Plans were made to replace or repair roads, with small achievements. During my tenure, the City replaced a major street. There were issues with the project, but the challenge was met, although not without an increase in property taxes. I support the strategy adopted by the Council to rebuild and replace roads on alternate years. The 2019 budget increased funding for street repairs, focusing on long-term solutions. We have and will continue to be prudent with reserves which will allow funding for needed repairs or replacements without an increase in taxes.

WV: From water interruptions to the cost of services, Aqua Texas is always a hot topic in Woodcreek. How, and should, the city of Woodcreek play a role in improving service, cost and communication as it relates to Aqua Texas?

LeBrun: As part of the contract renewal process, Woodcreek will improve service and costs, which may include a new provider or system. For years, the relationship between the City and Aqua has been governed by an old franchise agreement that is vague in terms of performance. Until a new contract is in place, Woodcreek is enacting ordinances to effectively monitor Aqua’s performance and establish clear standards and obligations. There is no lack of communication through the City website and social media. During the recent outages, I used social media, telephone, and personal visits to provide assistance and updates on the situation.

WV: With the new WISD School planned to go in next to the Woodcreek entrance, there will likely be a dramatic increase in traffic through the city. Do you think the increased traffic will be an issue and what would you do to address it?

LeBrun: Woodcreek Drive, Brookhollow and other major streets already experience increased traffic and speeding. The City has doubled hours for the Constable, including traffic control. At the September meeting, the need for traffic management was on the agenda at my request. The Roads Committee will study traffic data and once completed, additional steps, as necessary, will be taken. The school district is taking steps to minimize traffic disruptions, and there is open dialogue with the Superintendent about the possible impact on Woodcreek. If re-elected, traffic control and the potential impact of the new school will be part of my priorities.

WV: Previous city councils have discussed the merits and issues of annexation. What is your opinion on the city of Woodcreek expanding via annexation?

LeBrun: Woodcreek is almost fully developed. Expanding the City limits to include the current Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) would allow for responsible growth. Annexation would benefit not only the City but current and future residents. Growth is a reality in the Valley and being part of Woodcreek would ensure development without negative effects on quality of life. Under current state law, annexation must be voluntary and petitioned by the residents of the ETJ. I would continue efforts to work with ETJ residents to present the benefits of becoming part of Woodcreek and gain their trust and commitment to petition for annexation.