Runoff Special Edition June 5, 2021 Welcome to the Fort Worth Business Press Voters’ Guide

This not technically a voters’ guide. Instead, it is an effort to let you compare candidates in the Fort Worth City Elections and the Fort Worth Independent School District Board of Trustees election.

The runoff election is June 5.

How we did it: We developed a verified email list from the ballot applications and then offered candidates an opportunity to respond to a set of questions about the issues they perceive and how they would address them if the voters agree to give them a job.

What we did not do:

– We did not factcheck the candidate responses. – We edited the responses only lightly for issues like formatting, duplications and some spellings. If candidates typed in ALL CAPS, we left it like that. Why we did it: Voting is the bedrock of democracy and an intelligent and informed voter is essential to a functioning political system. Local elections are the most direct connection between voters and government and the decisions the voters made May 1 and will make June 5 will determine the path our local political entities will follow for the short-term – and maybe the long-term – as we recover from the devastation of COVID-19 and the recent Arctic weather.

The general Tarrant County Elections Office website can be found here: https://www.tarrantcounty.com/en/elections.html 817-831-8683 Email: [email protected] Interactive Voter Lookup. Search for voters, polling locations, and sample ballots.

2021 List of Runoff Candidates

City of Fort Worth

MAYOR Mattie Parker Deborah Peoples

FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL

DISTRICT 6 Jungus Jordan – Incumbent Jared Williams

DISTRICT 7 Leonard Firestone Zeb Pent

DISTRICT 8 Kelly Allen Gray – Incumbent Chris Nettles

DISTRICT 9 Elizabeth Beck Fernando Peralta

FORT WORTH ISD

FWISD District 9 Cade Lovelace Roxanne Martinez FORTFORT WORTHWORTH MAYORMAYOR FORTFORT WORTHWORTH MAYORMAYOR Mylene George Mattie J. Parker What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking they emerge from COVID successfully. 3rd largest metropolitan region, the time is now to look to future economic trends and the next emerging sectors election? Concurrently, we must also take an aggressive strategy for corporate relocation and growth opportunities for to compete adequately in this rapidly growing economy. The immediate pressing issue is making every part of Fort Worth a place welcoming for everyone to not only visit but businesses across the country that will be using 2021 to This won’t happen from city hall, but instead rallying our strongest business leaders to support efforts to attract, live. That branches from how we enhance the lower socioeconomic communities as well as the opportunities we can plan and evaluate options the long-term plans. We cannot sit on the sidelines, but instead bring Fort Worth to major retain and train the best and brightest to support the future create in those areas. corporations across the world and demonstrate the value of of Fort Worth. How might those issues change in two years? a home in Fort Worth. People are often critical of city and county government. Supporting our students: Let’s get to the point and be real What do you see as failures and successes of the elected My hope is to find ways to develop in those areas without displacing the current residents. Instead, providing them with about the devastatingly negative impact of COVID-19 our body you are seeking to join? new developments that would benefit them. students. We are at real risk of losing an entire generation Fort Worth works hard to be transparent, but the message and future leaders of our city due to the academic is sometimes lost in the ever-changing ways in which we get If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? regression caused by COVID. It is the responsibility of our news. We must be consistent in our communications, our city leaders to partner with educators, school leaders ensuring that our stories are compelling and informative, Improving race relations/policing. Fort Worth residents are diverse and there is no reason why people of a certain and parents to provide the best possible options for our so that every resident knows what our local government is demographic should feel uncomfortable or unsafe within their own city. students to get them back on track. Pushing for every doing and why. resource, public and private will be critical to provide the The Property Tax rate. Fort Worth homeowners are questioning whether or not they can comfortably afford the Despite best efforts by our elected officials, we have to appropriate resources for our teachers and school leaders, focus on uniting our community and remembering that increasing rates. That is counterproductive to wanting to make and keep Fort Worth Home for visitors and residents alike. and much of this recovery will be starting this summer and there are more things that unite us than divide us. Partisan our next Mayor must be a partner in this work. Mayor politics accomplishes nothing. We must find consensus OFFICE: Mayor Panther Island development should be reviewed. With such a large financial request with no federal backing I feel as OFFICE: How might those issues change in two years? every Tuesday, at City Council, on a variety of complex What is your age: 28 though pausing on this project and placing funds in the surrounding community instead would be beneficial. What is your age: 37 These issues will likely remain the same in a two year and important issues to keep Fort Worth strong. City of residence: Fort Worth period, but positive change depends on strong leadership There must be coordination between all government City of residence: Fort Worth If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? Native of Tarrant County: No at City Hall, political unity and a genuine working partners – city, county, state and federal. We can do better My goal would be to focus on the race relations. How great can our city really be if only certain people feel comfortable relationship between all neighborhoods throughout the and should. My experience working at every level of Native of Tarrant County: Yes City of birth: Austin enough to explore it. city. Beating the COVID-19 virus and rebuilding from government helps me understand the perspective and how City of birth: Fort Worth When did you move into the political jurisdiction? the economic devastation with a focus on all areas of our to align priorities effectively. People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected 06/01/2008 city will allow Fort Worth to come back stronger than Why are you the best candidate for this office? Profession: Marketing Coordinator ever but it will take intention and leadership. Facilitating body you are seeking to join? Profession: Nonprofit Executive and championing economic recovery will hinge upon the For 17 years I’ve served in state, federal and local public Education: Graduated from Central High School They have been successful in growing Fort Worth into more than just homes and a few stores. They have added Education: Hico High School; University of Texas at city’s ability to cut red tape and ensure we are make doing service, giving me the critical experience needed, along in Keller, Texas. Graduated from Tarrant County Austin, Bachelor of Arts in Government; Texas Wesleyan business and treating our residents like customers. with a front row seat in understanding the mayor’s role attractions, such as Clearfork, to add a little variance to typical shopping centers. School of Law (Texas A&M School of Law), Juris in leading and serving our city. I bring executive-level Community College With an Associates of Arts. Doctorate If you win election, what are your top three priorities to experience to City Hall where I was the go-to leader for Where they succeed in innovating ways to generate funds they fail at taking the impact of the people in the area into accomplish and why? community leaders, elected officials and the City Manager Have you held elective office before? No consideration. The aftermath of the builds leads to higher property taxes for long term residents and natives, Taxing them Significant recognitions/honors: 1. Ensuring safe and thriving neighborhoods in every part to solve problems and get things done. There is simply no out of their homes. MacLean & Boulware Endowed Law Scholarship, 2012 Fort of Fort Worth one more prepared and to tackle every tough issue with Worth Business Press 40 Under 40, 2013 The Gatehouse 2. Growing our economy through innovation the same depth of knowledge, community support and Why are you the best candidate for this office? Inaugural Recipient, Woman to Watch motivation to do what is right for all Fort Worth residents. 3. Creating an efficient and business-friendly City Hall The Association of Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP), Those that have worked with me know me to be a quick I bring a fresh outlook on how to approach the future of our city. Mayor Price led with initiatives entering her Mayoral Texas, 2015 Public Policy Lonestar Award Recipient Our neighborhoods are the heartbeat of Fort Worth, thinker with a strong moral compass and not afraid to make each with its individual character and fabric. We must pay career and I hope to follow suit in building opportunities to make Fort Worth a better place for all residents. As a lifelong Have you held elective officer before? No the tough decisions. I want to be mayor of Fort Worth Townswoman I will be taking a more hands on approach with an alternate perspective in regards to community relations in attention to all parts of the city and foster their growth and because, quite simply, I want to serve its residents and What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues prosperity, which is only possible if we first strongly support help lead all of us into the future. My candidacy is not a lower socioeconomic communities. facing the governmental body to which you are seeking our police and firefighters that keep our residents safe. steppingstone to seek higher office. It’s about focusing on election? With safety prioritized, you may then continue our work Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: Fort Worth and making sure future generations are proud The most pressing issue facing the Fort Worth City in neighborhood revitalization with investment in critical of the community they live in. Did not respond. Council all revolves around a strong and smart recovery city infrastructure neighborhood improvements. Lastly, prioritizing our investment in our city parks and open space Give us an example of past public service of which you from COVID-19, including, the city’s budget, our are proud: Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. economic vitality and recovery and supporting our future throughout the city as one of the most important amenities we can offer. My entire career has been in service to the public at every I look up to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez because, like me, she was the average working woman who felt a change in workforce, our students. Safe neighborhoods and a strong economy go hand in level. I believe in the importance of service over self. Some City Budget: Following the citywide elections, including of the most important moments in my career as a public representation was needed. I feel she truly represents the people. She is willing to be vocal and stand her ground in the the timeline for a runoff election, the City of Fort Worth hand. We must partner with nonprofits, educational experts and business leaders to ensure more students have the job servant did not make headlines, but they mattered to those fight for what is right. That strength and courage is what I hope to bring to the seat if Fort Worth sees me fit. management team will be in the middle of developing we were helping. the FY2022 budget. It must be a priority to immediately training needed to succeed in today’s workforce – giving work with the management team on reconciling the young adults real world skills and hope for a brighter The work I am most proud of to date is the opportunity economic impacts of COVID-19. We must hit the future. Additionally, Fort Worth must compete in a global to serve as one of the architects for our work in education ground running, working with the city management on economy. Together, we need to support local entrepreneurs initiatives in Tarrant County, including Read Fort Worth, budget to understand the current economic outlook and to help grow our own businesses, while aggressively Best Place for Kids /Working Parents and the Tarrant To where we need to reshape or prioritize city spending. pursuing corporate relocations, securing new, high-paying and Through (T3) Partnership. Our work will change the This will include a reconciliation of the CARES act jobs. trajectory for our students in Tarrant County because funding received and any additional federal stimulus To make real change happen we must have an efficient student success is our success. money. Additionally, we have a responsibility to take a City Hall. As our next Mayor, we will keep taxpayers and Name someone in politics that your consider a role very proactive and involved approach with city leaders our residents at the forefront of every decision. Providing model and tell us why. to understand and prioritize upgrading outdated and our taxpayers with any type of property tax relief will Former Secretary of the Army and Member of the overburdened city infrastructure that was were exposed require successful business attraction efforts that beings Congress, Pete Geren. during the snowstorm – undertaking the same process to flip the tax base from being predominantly reliant on state leaders are doing to focus on electric grid. homeowners. It is also critical we remain focused in our city Pete exemplifies what is means to be a true stateman, to Economic Resurgence: Citywide economic recovery budget on the critical city services that have the biggest lead with courage and humility no matter how difficult and resurgence from COVID that includes helping our impact on our lives, while building a truly business-friendly the job. Our country needs more people in leadership like businesses and workforce recovery while also focusing on climate at City Hall that enables our businesses to grow Secretary Geren to heal our political divide and ensure we and flourish. serve with the simple motto that we leave this place better global economic competition. It is critical we treat this as than we found it. an economic resurgence, with the willingness to create an If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that aggressive economic strategy that includes strong support be and why? for our small business and entrepreneurial community that Growing our economy through innovation and ensuring are employing our residents and shaping Fort Worth. Small Fort Worth can compete in a global economy. As Mayor, businesses and those that took a risk to dream big in Fort you are the ambassador and face of our city, and have Worth are the fabric of our city, and as we emerge from duty to facilitate smart economic growth and opportunity. COVID-19 we need to take care of our own and ensure Fort Worth is now the 13th largest city and DFW is the FORTFORT WORTHWORTH MAYORMAYOR FORTFORT WORTHWORTH MAYORMAYOR FORTFORT WORTHWORTH MAYORMAYOR FORTFORT WORTH WORTH MAYOR MAYOR Mylene George MattieMike Haynes J. Parker Deborah Peoples What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking Whatthey do emerge you see from as COVIDthe most successfully. immediate pressing issues facing3rd the largest governmental metropolitan body region, to whichthe time you is noware seeking to look What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues And yes, that means embracing our growth and diversity as to future economic trends and the next emerging sectors election? election?Concurrently, we must also take an aggressive strategy facing the governmental body to which you are seeking an asset instead of looking the other way. It all goes hand- for corporate relocation and growth opportunities for to compete adequately in this rapidly growing economy. election? in-hand. The immediate pressing issue is making every part of Fort Worth a place welcoming for everyone to not only visit but Pay.businesses We need across more thepay country and more that opportunities will be using 2021 to This won’t happen from city hall, but instead rallying our strongest business leaders to support efforts to attract, Fort Worth’s remarkable growth has not been fully live. That branches from how we enhance the lower socioeconomic communities as well as the opportunities we can Howplan might and evaluate those issues options change the long-term in two years? plans. We cannot People are often critical of city and county government. sit on the sidelines, but instead bring Fort Worth to major retain and train the best and brightest to support the future understood by our leadership, and the neighborhoods What do you see as failures and successes of the create in those areas. Verycorporations easy just makingacross the it happen world and demonstrate the value of of Fort Worth. left behind represent a significant missed opportunity for elected body you are seeking to join? a home in Fort Worth. People are often critical of city and county government. the city. This historic crisis has made it painfully clear that How might those issues change in two years? If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? our city suffers when leaders prioritize one group over Supporting our students: Let’s get to the point and be real What do you see as failures and successes of the elected I always say, there’s no use in criticizing without offering My hope is to find ways to develop in those areas without displacing the current residents. Instead, providing them with 1. Raiseabout the the pay devastatingly negative impact of COVID-19 our body you are seeking to join? another. Now more than ever, we need a mayor who will a better solution. It’s important to recognize the historic new developments that would benefit them. students. We are at real risk of losing an entire generation Fort Worth works hard to be transparent, but the message listen to community members of all backgrounds and unite nature our current leader, the longest serving mayor in Fort 2. Createand future felony leaders friendly of our Jobs, city and due createto the moreacademic opportunities inis the sometimes workforce lost in the ever-changing ways in which we get us into One Fort Worth. Instead of being the city that has Worth’s history. Credit is due for Mayor Price’s theory of the zip code with the lowest life expectancy in Texas, we If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? 3. Addressregression mental caused health by COVID. issues to It createis the responsibility more nonprofit of organizations,our news. that We mustwill create be consistent more opportunities in our communications, for the youth the case 10 years ago and her initial plan, but I agree with our city leaders to partner with educators, school leaders ensuring that our stories are compelling and informative, need to ensure vaccines and pandemic relief resources the mayor that it’s time for a change. Fort Worth’s growth Improving race relations/policing. Fort Worth residents are diverse and there is no reason why people of a certain whichand willparents impacts to provide the numbers the best of possible homeless options youth forand our reduce theso thatcrime every rates resident knows what our local government is are distributed equitably. Bringing everyone in is the only in recent years has surpassed that of almost any other city demographic should feel uncomfortable or unsafe within their own city. If youstudents can accomplishto get them onlyback oneon track. priority, Pushing what for would every that be anddoing why? and why. way to quickly come out of this pandemic and bring our in Texas and America, so it’s crucial we have mayor who resource, public and private will be critical to provide the economy back on track. As the candidate in the race with The Property Tax rate. Fort Worth homeowners are questioning whether or not they can comfortably afford the Despite best efforts by our elected officials, we have to embraces that growth and harnesses the potential of our Makingappropriate Fort Worth resources the manifestedfor our teachers portion and of school its name: leaders, “A place focus of Worth” on uniting I will ourmake community this place and a place remembering worth living that at. the most business experience, I will use what I learned over underserved communities. That can’t happen without increasing rates. That is counterproductive to wanting to make and keep Fort Worth Home for visitors and residents alike. and much of this recovery will be starting this summer and there are more things that unite us than divide us. Partisan 30 years in the private sector to bring good paying jobs to Peopleour next are Mayor often criticalmust be of a partnercity and in county this work. government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected healing longstanding divisions and uniting us into One Fort Panther Island development should be reviewed. With such a large financial request with no federal backing I feel as OFFICE: Mayor politics accomplishes nothing. We must find consensus Fort Worth with an even-handed business environment. Worth, which is exactly what my campaign is about. OFFICE: Mayor OFFICE: Mayor bodyHow you might are seekingthose issues to join? change in two years? every Tuesday, at City Council, on a variety of complex OFFICE: Mayor of Fort Worth It is a priority that all our neighborhoods benefit from this though pausing on this project and placing funds in the surrounding community instead would be beneficial. What is your age: 37 and important issues to keep Fort Worth strong. What is your age: 28 What is your age: 32 TheThese effort issues of willmaking likely changes remain thatthe samecan actual in a two be yearseen so that we can attract younger personnel that would add value to What is your age: 68 growth and economic prosperity. Why are you the best candidate for this office? If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? City of residence: Fort Worth newperiod, ideas but positive change depends on strong leadership There must be coordination between all government How might those issues change in two years? City of residence: Fort Worth City of residence: Forest Hill at City Hall, political unity and a genuine working partners – city, county, state and federal. We can do better I have the most business experience out of anyone in Native of Tarrant County: No City of residence: Fort Worth the race, and I am the only candidate with a Master’s in My goal would be to focus on the race relations. How great can our city really be if only certain people feel comfortable Yes Whyrelationship are you thebetween best candidateall neighborhoods for this throughout office? the and should. My experience working at every level of In a 2023 where the pandemic is hopefully long in the Native of Tarrant County: Yes CityNative of ofbirth: Tarrant Austin County: rearview mirror, our biggest challenge is sustainable Business Administration. Now, a degree doesn’t mean enough to explore it. I amcity. just Beating like every the COVID-19resident from virus Fort and Worth rebuilding ready from for better andgovernment ready for a helps change me at understand Day 1. Fort the Worth perspective Resident. and how Native of Tarrant County: No City of birth: Fort Worth WhenCity of did birth: you Fort move Worth into the political jurisdiction? the economic devastation with a focus on all areas of our to align priorities effectively. growth. Throughout Texas and the South, we see everything, but my 30 years working my way up at AT&T People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected 06/01/2008 Givecity us will an allow example Fort Worth of past to public come backservice stronger of which than you are proud:Why are you the best candidate for this office? City of birth: Did not reply cautionary tales of awful traffic in fast-growing cities that the level of Vice President equipped me with the skills Profession: Marketing Coordinator Profession: CEO ever but it will take intention and leadership. Facilitating do not properly address their infrastructure needs. Adding to attract new job creators to Fort Worth and lead a body you are seeking to join? Profession: Nonprofit Executive Retired Vice President at AT&T Education: BA in business Increasingand championing the number economic of our high recovery school will graduates hinge upon that the go to collegeFor 17 years I’ve served in state, federal and local public Profession: lanes and widening roads is not enough to handle traffic large-scale operation. We’ve all seen the volatility and Education: Graduated from Central High School They have been successful in growing Fort Worth into more than just homes and a few stores. They have added Education: Hico High School; University of Texas at city’s ability to cut red tape and ensure we are make doing service, giving me the critical experience needed, along in a city that’s growing as fast as Fort Worth is. Investing in instability in our communities. Drawing on my personal and Austin,Significant Bachelor recognitions/honors: of Arts in Government; Texas Wesleyan Namebusiness someone and treating in politics our residentsthat your like consider customers. a role model andwith tell a frontus why. row seat in understanding the mayor’s role Education: Ector High School (1969, graduated at age in Keller, Texas. Graduated from Tarrant County attractions, such as Clearfork, to add a little variance to typical shopping centers. public transit — particularly light rail — must be a priority professional experience, I have a unique background to School of Law (Texas A&M School of Law), Juris Mike Haynes (myself) since I have entered the race of Mayor inin 2019 leading I have and seen serving more our changes city. I bring since executive-level then In the Music, 16); Texas Women’s University BS (1973); Texas Women’s empathize with all those who are hurting and unite us into Community College With an Associates of Arts. Doctorate 33x ELITE Award winner, 2x CEO Award Winner, If you win election, what are your top three priorities to experience to City Hall where I was the go-to leader for University MBA (2005). to prevent major congestion, just as it has in cities across Where they succeed in innovating ways to generate funds they fail at taking the impact of the people in the area into Enactus Regional Champion and Champion winner in theaccomplish videos games, and why? in Cartoon even in the clothes we wear it hascommunity now become leaders, a norm. elected And officials I also look and forward the City to newManager the country. Fort Worth cannot be a city that’s impossible One Fort Worth where we can all prosper. Have you held elective office before? No consideration. The aftermath of the builds leads to higher property taxes for long term residents and natives, Taxing them Significant recognitions/honors: changes.1. Ensuring safe and thriving neighborhoods in every part to solve problems and get things done. There is simply no to access without a vehicle, especially the airport and Significant recognitions/honors: Give us an example of past public service of which you out of their homes. MacLeanHave you & held Boulware elective Endowed office Law before? Scholarship, No 2012 Fort of Fort Worth one more prepared and to tackle every tough issue with major economic centers. That will make Fort Worth an Worth Business Press 40 Under 40, 2013 The Gatehouse the same depth of knowledge, community support and Living Legend Award, Alpha Phi Alpha Sorority (2019) increasingly attractive place to live for new job creators, so are proud: Inaugural Recipient, Woman to Watch 2. Growing our economy through innovation Why are you the best candidate for this office? motivation to do what is right for all Fort Worth residents. Have you held elective office before? Ye s the city won’t have to rely on aimless abatement bidding My public service goes back decades to my first job out The Association of Substance Abuse Programs (ASAP), 3. Creating an efficient and business-friendly City Hall wars and uneven growth. I bring a fresh outlook on how to approach the future of our city. Mayor Price led with initiatives entering her Mayoral Those that have worked with me know me to be a quick Please describe: Chair of Tarrant County Democratic of college where I worked for the City of Fort Worth to Texas, 2015 Public Policy Lonestar Award Recipient Our neighborhoods are the heartbeat of Fort Worth, thinker with a strong moral compass and not afraid to make Party, overseeing historic expansion in voter registration career and I hope to follow suit in building opportunities to make Fort Worth a better place for all residents. As a lifelong each with its individual character and fabric. We must pay If you win election, what are your top three priorities to help expand access to opportunity in our underserved Have you held elective officer before? No the tough decisions. I want to be mayor of Fort Worth and civic participation over the past eight years. accomplish and why? neighborhoods. One recent example of how I was able Townswoman I will be taking a more hands on approach with an alternate perspective in regards to community relations in attention to all parts of the city and foster their growth and because, quite simply, I want to serve its residents and What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues prosperity, which is only possible if we first strongly support help lead all of us into the future. My candidacy is not a The first priority is efficiently using city public health to help our city after retiring from AT&T occurred this lower socioeconomic communities. facing the governmental body to which you are seeking our police and firefighters that keep our residents safe. steppingstone to seek higher office. It’s about focusing on resources to lead us out of this pandemic. Long before past summer. During the painful period after the killing election? With safety prioritized, you may then continue our work of George Floyd, I commissioned a mural symbolizing Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: Fort Worth and making sure future generations are proud the public health crisis, Fort Worth passed on simple, cost- The most pressing issue facing the Fort Worth City in neighborhood revitalization with investment in critical of the community they live in. effective solutions that would have dramatically improved our common goals to end discrimination and put on an Did not respond. Council all revolves around a strong and smart recovery city infrastructure neighborhood improvements. Lastly, outdoor festival that brought attendees of all backgrounds, prioritizing our investment in our city parks and open space Give us an example of past public service of which you the baseline health and wellness of its residents. Past from COVID-19, including, the city’s budget, our are proud: leaders even eliminated the city’s health department. An helped local businesses, and served as an act of unity at Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. economic vitality and recovery and supporting our future throughout the city as one of the most important amenities a time when our city badly needed it. I was proud that it we can offer. My entire career has been in service to the public at every equitable recover is the most efficient and most moral way I look up to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez because, like me, she was the average working woman who felt a change in workforce, our students. for all our neighborhoods to prosper. showed we could achieve unity without tearing each other Safe neighborhoods and a strong economy go hand in level. I believe in the importance of service over self. Some down and that we can listen to one another despite coming City Budget: Following the citywide elections, including of the most important moments in my career as a public representation was needed. I feel she truly represents the people. She is willing to be vocal and stand her ground in the the timeline for a runoff election, the City of Fort Worth hand. We must partner with nonprofits, educational experts As life returns to normal, it is imperative that we ensure from different walks of life. and business leaders to ensure more students have the job servant did not make headlines, but they mattered to those the benefits from our historic growth are felt in all fight for what is right. That strength and courage is what I hope to bring to the seat if Fort Worth sees me fit. management team will be in the middle of developing we were helping. the FY2022 budget. It must be a priority to immediately training needed to succeed in today’s workforce – giving our neighborhoods, not just the fortunate few. Our Name someone in politics that your consider a role work with the management team on reconciling the young adults real world skills and hope for a brighter The work I am most proud of to date is the opportunity underserved communities represent economic opportunity model and tell us why. economic impacts of COVID-19. We must hit the future. Additionally, Fort Worth must compete in a global to serve as one of the architects for our work in education unrealized by city leaders. Using my 30 years of business ground running, working with the city management on economy. Together, we need to support local entrepreneurs initiatives in Tarrant County, including Read Fort Worth, experience, I will fight for our companies to cast a wide net For many years, I have considered Mrs. Opal Lee a budget to understand the current economic outlook and to help grow our own businesses, while aggressively Best Place for Kids /Working Parents and the Tarrant To with hiring practices and expansion plans. role model. Her work serving those in need and her where we need to reshape or prioritize city spending. pursuing corporate relocations, securing new, high-paying and Through (T3) Partnership. Our work will change the commitment to civil rights serve as an inspiration to me This will include a reconciliation of the CARES act jobs. trajectory for our students in Tarrant County because Finally, we must recognize that cities are at a disadvantage every day. And she’s still going! I was honored to recently funding received and any additional federal stimulus To make real change happen we must have an efficient student success is our success. in attracting new businesses when they turn a blind eye to receive her endorsement, and I will work every day to lead money. Additionally, we have a responsibility to take a City Hall. As our next Mayor, we will keep taxpayers and Name someone in politics that your consider a role systemic racial and social inequities. All across the country, this city with a compassion and effectiveness that would very proactive and involved approach with city leaders our residents at the forefront of every decision. Providing model and tell us why. we are seeing big job creators boycott states and areas make Mrs. Lee proud.: that do not embrace diversity. With so many people of so to understand and prioritize upgrading outdated and our taxpayers with any type of property tax relief will Former Secretary of the Army and Member of the overburdened city infrastructure that was were exposed require successful business attraction efforts that beings Congress, Pete Geren. many backgrounds calling Fort Worth home, we need to during the snowstorm – undertaking the same process to flip the tax base from being predominantly reliant on break with the old ways and recognize this diversity for the state leaders are doing to focus on electric grid. homeowners. It is also critical we remain focused in our city Pete exemplifies what is means to be a true stateman, to strength that it is for our city. Economic Resurgence: Citywide economic recovery budget on the critical city services that have the biggest lead with courage and humility no matter how difficult and resurgence from COVID that includes helping our impact on our lives, while building a truly business-friendly the job. Our country needs more people in leadership like If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that businesses and workforce recovery while also focusing on climate at City Hall that enables our businesses to grow Secretary Geren to heal our political divide and ensure we be and why? and flourish. serve with the simple motto that we leave this place better global economic competition. It is critical we treat this as than we found it. an economic resurgence, with the willingness to create an If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that All of this comes together to one goal: Fort Worth needs aggressive economic strategy that includes strong support be and why? to be an attractive place to live and work. That means revamping the city’s public health approach to combat for our small business and entrepreneurial community that Growing our economy through innovation and ensuring are employing our residents and shaping Fort Worth. Small Fort Worth can compete in a global economy. As Mayor, the virus in all our neighborhoods and support a healthy businesses and those that took a risk to dream big in Fort you are the ambassador and face of our city, and have workforce once the pandemic is behind us. That means Worth are the fabric of our city, and as we emerge from duty to facilitate smart economic growth and opportunity. ensuring our economy keeps growing by bringing new job COVID-19 we need to take care of our own and ensure Fort Worth is now the 13th largest city and DFW is the creators and providing an infrastructure to support it all. FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 6 FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 6 Jungus Jordan Tiesa Leggett 17. Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Cluster including making sure all bond money approved by voters What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that Have you held elective office before? Ye s is spent as approved and in a timely manner. facing the governmental body to which you are seeking be and why? election? Please describe: I have been elected and served eight On the other hand, the city dropped the ball on the Citizen input adoption. We need to be accountable to our terms as the City Council Member, District 6, City of Fort implementation of smart water meters. I am leading the I believe the most immediate pressing issues facing Fort community and the council should perform based on the Worth . charge to make sure residents’ smart water meters are Worth are the lack of economic development initiatives, needs of our citizens. accurate and water rates are reduced commensurate with specifically geared toward providing equity to each district. What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues People are often critical of city and county government. actual consumer usage so we can eliminate incorrect or It is my belief that intentional strategic planning can help What do you see as failures and successes of the facing the governmental body to which you are seeking excessive water bills. improve equity, diversity and inclusion within our city. election? elected body you are seeking to join? Why are you the best candidate for this office? Improved forms of multimodal transportation would allow The issues that are of foremost importance to me are I believe there could be improved transparency between I am a person who is much like those I seek to represent for the further connection of our city, while simultaneously the city and our community. We need an active and ensuring our public safety needs are met; continuing to providing transit access to those with transportation reduce property tax rates; improving neighborhood streets in District 6. I grew up here, and after my military career engaged council to ensure Fort Worth is doing everything in Vietnam and at the Pentagon, I returned to Fort Worth insecurities. Effective and efficient multimodal it can to live up to its potential as one of the largest cities in and traffic mobility; uniform code enforcement; providing Charles Gbadebo/Pho- transportation would reduce traffic congestion across quality neighborhood parks; making sure our city services because I knew there was no better place for my family. My tography By GBADE- the nation. Courtesy BO the city and the metroplex and with the construction of meet the needs of our citizens; and promoting a strong military and business careers, along with my education in Why are you the best candidate for this office? economics and management helped prepare me to be an improved forms of transportation, countless jobs would be local economy including facilitating Fort Worth’s economic I love Fort Worth and I prove it. I was involved early on OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 6 effective watchdog over the city’s budget, and in helping OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 6 created for Fort Worth. recovery from the pandemic. in Steer Fort Worth and have been connected with some the city deliver services to our citizens and neighborhoods. In addition, there are two major issues within digital equity What is your age: 72 What is your age: 39 of the most dynamic grassroots and young professionals How might those issues change in two years? I also believe a good leader is a good listener, and my and both affect Fort Worth residents. The first: access City of residence: Fort Worth City of residence: Crowley in the city. I am an innovator and have helped to create I expect that in two years my top priorities will continue door and the doors at City Hall are always open to anyone to digital infrastructure. This challenge largely relates to organizations to increase equity and diversity in our Native of Tarrant County: Yes to be supporting public safety and our public safety wishing to make their voices heard. I also hold regular town Native of Tarrant County: Yes whether residents have broadband available where they community. My civic experience and heart for this employees; reducing property tax rates; improving hall meetings which are known as “Java with Jungus” with City of birth: Fort Worth live. The second challenge is whether there is access to City of birth: Fort Worth city have prepared me for this role, and I intend to do neighborhood streets and traffic mobility; uniform code residents in District 6 so they can personally express their sufficient speeds and digital services, which addresses Profession: Retired U.S. Air Force Officer / Retired Profession: Government Relations everything I can to improve our home. enforcement; providing quality neighborhood parks; concerns and opinions. And I personally return all phone whether residents have the resources they need to Finance and Economics Executive making sure our city services meet the needs of our calls. Education: effectively use and benefit from technology. Give us an example of past public service of which you Education: Everman High School; Bachelors of Arts are proud: citizens; and promoting a strong local economy. Give us an example of past public service of which you Judson Senior High School in Converse, Texas; University How might those issues change in two years? in Economics, Texas Christian University; Masters of North Texas at Denton with a Bachelor of Arts degree If you win election, what are your top three priorities to are proud: I will advocate for transportation expansion and not just I am proud of my ability to create policy and create of Arts Management, Webster University; National in journalism; University of Texas at Arlington Master of partnerships with organizations to accomplish goals. My accomplish and why? I am proud of having led the effort to decrease the city’s highway construction - while necessary, it is not the only Security Management, National Defense University; Air Science degree with a focus on sustainability. most favorite time in my career was working alongside My top priorities will continue to be strongly supporting property tax rate multiple times and to implement our solution. This provides an opportunity for job development Command and Staff, Air University; Squadron Officer the incredible professionals at Blue Zones Project. To be a public safety and our public safety employees, holding senior property tax freeze.. Significant recognitions/honors: and access to all who need to bypass the congestion and School, Air University; AFCOMS - Cornell Executive part of such an incredible outcome, as one of the largest Training Program, Cornell University the line against property tax increases, improving and Name someone in politics that your consider a role 40 Under 40; Fort Worth Business Press get to work. maintaining our streets and other city infrastructure, Blue Zones Communities in the world, was an awesome Significant recognitions/honors: model and tell us why. Appointed by Tarrant County Commissioner Roy Charles Through partnership and coalition building, collaborative accomplishment. I was there from day one and to be able upholding the quality of life in our neighborhoods Brooks, Precinct 1, to serve on the Blue-Ribbon Citizens agreements can be made. It will take input from the 1. Texas Department of Transportation Road Hand President Ronald Reagan is my political role model to support and advocate to continue the work, potentially including responsive code enforcement and continued Advisory Committee community and leveraging relationships like Connected Award because he was a strong, effective leader who was able to as an elected official, gives me great joy. park development, and working to keep our local economy Nation Texas, to ensure that needs of our community are 2. Tarleton State University-President’s Legacy Award for accomplish his goals by working with those on both sides Leadership Fort Worth – Alumna strong. By accomplishing these goals, Fort Worth will articulated. Name someone in politics that your consider a role Civility with Integrity continue to be a great place to live, work, and bring up a of issues in a civil, collegial manner. Southeast Fort Worth Young Professional of the Year - model and tell us why. Connected Nation Texas is an independent, public & 3. William J. Pitstick Award, North Central Texas Council family. 2015 The late Tarrant County Commissioner Dionne Bagsby of Governments for demonstrated commitment to private initiative working to ensure that all can experience If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that Fort Worth SPARC – Current Board Member would mentor all of us “up and coming” women, of all Regionalism the benefits of broadband. Technology, especially be and why? backgrounds, and she spent a lot of her time recruiting and 4. National League of Cities Excellence in Transportation Fort Worth Chapter, The Links, Incorporated – Current widespread access, use and adoption of broadband, Keeping our citizens and neighborhoods safe is essential to Member improves all areas of life. encouraging others to run for office or become involved in Award community groups. She was such a fighter and so strategic 5. North Texas Commission Transportation Excellence everything else that we hope to accomplish as a city. That’s United Way Young Leaders Society Executive If you win election, what are your top three priorities to why my number one priority has always been providing in how she was able to relate to others - regardless of Award in Mobility Committee – Member accomplish and why? political party affiliation. That is the key to community 6. Community Builder of the Year Award, Tabernacle necessary resources to ensure adequate public safety throughout Fort Worth, along with strongly supporting the Leadership Arlington – Alumna I aim to communicate with the residents and create a life service, it is ultimately about the people, not our own Masonic Lodge of Woodway radius strategy for all aspects of my district. District 6 has agenda. Commissioner Bagsby said the answer is there, 7. Morton Herman Service to Veterans Award, Jewish women and men of our police and fire departments. Quick FWISD Young Women’s Leadership Academy – response times for all emergencies require well-maintained Advisory Committee Member transformed and we need to provide initiatives that propel you must look at the data, understand and respect the War Veterans Post 755 the community comfortably in a forward direction. human elements, and lead. 8. Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary Club of Fort Worth streets and efficient traffic flow. My commitment to public Visit Fort Worth and the Fort Worth Black Chamber Next 9. Greater Fort Worth Builders Association Partnership safety also includes strong support of increased police Generation Leadership award. I want the citizens of Fort Worth to be heard. As I was patrols in our neighborhoods and volunteer groups like appointed by Commissioner Roy Charles Brooks to serve Award Founding president of BRIDGE Fort Worth. 10. Harmony Science Public Schools Distinguished Citizens on Patrol. on the Blue Ribbon Citizens Committee, I always felt as if No Service Award People are often critical of city and county government. Have you held elective office before? the commissioners listened to all of our recommendations. 11. Paul Stevenson Award Rotary Club of Fort Worth What do you see as failures and successes of the It is important that as a council member, that when we 12. Gamma Phi Delta honors for “Linking minds to the elected body you are seeking to join? assign or create a task force, we are involved in the process future through the political arena” and incorporate the recommendations of our community. I think our City Council has done a good job overall, 13. Midwest Section of the Texas Chapter American especially by reducing the financial burden on our Finally I want to focus on a Collective Impact in education. Planning Association Planning Advocate Award - 2009 homeowners by lowering our property tax rate and I want to ensure that students in all of the school districts and 2004 implementing a senior property tax freeze. We have also that are encompassed by the City of Fort Worth feel 14. President Texas Municipal League 2013-2014 required financial accountability from city departments, engaged in our initiatives and are actively involved. 15. Chairman Tarrant Regional Transportation Coalition 16. Defense Superior Service Medal FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 6 FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 7 Jared Williams Connie Cottrell What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues in easy to digest formats, and the actions of our elected What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking facing the governmental body to which you are seeking officials must be transparent. Far too many elected officials election? election? spend their careers declaring victory or success on an District 7 is a growing community. However, the infrastructure is a step behind in meeting the needs of this rapidly The primary issues are transparency and trust. The ability action but in reality the communities they represent have growing community. no ability to judge if that is true. As a City Councilmember, to move Fort Worth forward will be successful if we have How might those issues change in two years? the residents of Fort Worth, across all neighborhoods, faith I will ensure that we address this key issue and provide all There are several roads in N. W. Fort Worth, and Haslet that need to be widened to accommodate this growing in their City government. To secure this faith we must have Fort Worth residents with the ability to truly understand community. Round abouts are not the answer for every location. We need to consider traffic lights to ensure the safety a transparent government that allows residents to clearly our actions and then have the ability to judge if something concerns in our area also. and easily understand the issues that the City is facing. is a success or failure. I also believe that the strength of individual neighborhoods Why are you the best candidate for this office? If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? is a crucial issue in this election. Fort Worth will be only as I believe what makes me different from my opponents is Infrastructure because it’s important in regards to our daily commutes to and from work, the grocery store etc. strong as the neighborhoods that makeup the City. We my life long connection to the neighborhoods that make High Taxes, I am not sure what is involved in this process, but the rise in taxes seems to be significant. must understand that the health of each neighborhood up District 6 and my proven record of advocating for Safety, adding additional Police Stations. Shopping areas, more houses and restaurants are going up in our district. There Courtesy must be understood and addressed. Having this view of creating space for communities traditionally excluded Courtesy is plenty of space for a Police Station to ensure that our community remains safe. Fort Worth will allow for better engagement on all issues from the decision making process. My life experiences and OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 6 and help create the environment of trust and transparency professional record is one of inclusive coalition-building OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 7 If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? that we must have to build success. and shared decision-making which have led to positive Safety first, so I would really love to see a Police station in our area within the boundaries of the train track. Either What is your age: 31 What is your age: 61 How might those issues change in two years? results for our children, families, and communities across direction, if there is an emergency the Emergency personnel will have to cross a train track. City of residence: Fort Worth Fort Worth and Texas. City of residence: Fort Worth The issues we face may change, but transparency and People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected Native of Tarrant County: Ye s Native of Tarrant County: No trust must be consistent in solving them. I believe we I also believe that my ability to put together a strong body you are seeking to join? campaign team, garner people-powered endorsements City of birth: Fort Worth must restore trust in our city government and also provide City of birth: Dawson I am very proud of the initiatives taking place right now. Especially the Evans and Rosedale Business and Cultural from my neighbors across District 6, Fort Worth, and Profession: Non-Profit Leader and Science Educator transparency so residents can have confidence in our When did you move into the political jurisdiction? Districts that are being developed as a heritage center that celebrates its African American History. I am very proud of progress. Residents need to be able to judge failure our nation, and successfully build a strong fundraising Education: After graduating from North Crowley 10/04/2012 the accomplishments so far. The only fault I see is foreseeing the potential growth earlier which would have been difficult and success. To do this, we need to actively include our base of small donors are all a reflection of my ability to High School, I went on to earn a master’s of science in Profession: Transportation Security Administration to anticipate. residents in city decisions and expand access to digestible effectively build and lead a coalition towards a more just Environmental science from Texas Christian University Why are you the best candidate for this office? information. I believe that Fort Worth can and will become and prosperous Fort Worth. Education: and doctorate in environmental science & science one of the top 10 largest cities in our nation, and doing so Give us an example of past public service of which you Lake Highlands High School in 1978. Attended United I am a people person. I genuinely care about the livelihood of our community. There isn’t a better reward than that education from the University of North Texas. I worked depends on our success in building a culture of effective are proud: Travel Academy, International Beauty School. Studied of serving others. Currently with my present position as a TSA officer our mission is to protect the traveling public. A alongside local residents and families as a graduate governance, consistent transparency and trust in City Hall, Medical Terminology, Medical Law and Ethics, and thankless job but I never lose sight of my mission. As a city council member it will be about the community I serve. It’s student to create local solutions on issues such as Over the past year I have been honored to help facilitate starting with our elected leadership. Business Communications at Richland Community about you! I may not have all of the skills or qualifications but I will be loaded with passion and dedication to help ensure water conservation, smarter waste management and robust food drives and distribution events across Fort College. our community will be taken care of. sustainable urban infrastructure. If you win election, what are your top three priorities to Worth and Tarrant County, as a member of the Board of accomplish and why? Directors for the Tarrant Area Food Bank. The events Significant recognitions/honors: Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: Significant recognitions/honors: I will be laser-focused on building a just and prosperous over the past year have left many of our neighbors food Recognized for 16 years of service with the Federal I am proud to serve the traveling public. Ensuring their safety to and from their destination. Once I finished school, I returned to serve in the District Fort Worth by growing strong jobs, affordable housing insecure and to be able to help families and neighbors Government as TSA Officer. One of my greatest honors that I call home. Since then, I have continued to create Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. for our workforce and communities where families have through these times has made me very proud. I also and by far the most rewarding was having the opportunity solutions with my neighbors on important local and state Mayor Betsy Price, I love how down to earth she is. I adore her for the hard work and dedication she has given to the city access to safe neighborhoods, excellent public education believe that the work of the Tarrant Area Food Bank, to mentor, coach and train new hires. And, as a collateral issues. I have partnered with Fort Worth communities of Ft. Worth. Thank you for your service Mayor Price. and 21st century city services. How do we build a just its volunteers, and those who helped contribute food duty being involved in the hiring process. to ensure better career options for marginalized and prosperous Fort Worth? One brick at a time - and demonstrates the true power of collective action in communities, affordable housing solutions for vulnerable Have you held elective office before? No neighborhoods are the bricks to our city. That’s why we’ll response to crisis. neighbors and excellent and equitable public schools for be working together - Building Strong Neighborhoods Name someone in politics that your consider a role families. I bring a people-first approach to leadership, a - with three priorities: jumpstarting our city’s economy, model and tell us why. proven equity lens when making decisions and a deep improving neighborhood safety and promoting a fair, passion for serving the community that raised me. I will This is a great question and there are so many individuals transparent and representative government. work tirelessly to ensure that our families experience the that fit the definition of a role model in politics for me. Of very best in Fort Worth. For more information about my If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that course my foundation of my beliefs come from my parents honors, visit www.drjaredwilliams.com/about be and why? and help guide the way I see the world. Have you held elective office before? No The one priority I would like to accomplish would be Beyond that, I have been thinking a lot about former Texas ensuring that we build strong and viable neighborhoods Governor Ann Richards lately. With everything that Texas throughout District 6. Cities are only as strong as the has experienced in the past weeks, months, and year, neighborhoods that make them. I am committed to her thoughts on leadership I believe are crucial during focusing on the neighborhoods that makeup District 6 and these times. She once said, “We’re not going to have ensuring that they are all part of a strong and vibrant Fort the America that we want until we elect leaders who are Worth. going to tell the truth - not most days, but every day.” Her People are often critical of city and county government. leadership as Governor of Texas was representative of this What do you see as failures and successes of the quote and I believe that our leaders in Fort Worth could elected body you are seeking to join? use these words of wisdom now and moving forward. One of the fundamental issues that Fort Worth has is the lack of transparency. For residents of Fort Worth to judge the success or failures of any action the City takes, information must be easy to find, data has to be presented FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 7 FORT WORTH CITY COUNCILFORT - DISTRICT WORTH 7 CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 2 Lee Henderson Leonard Firestone What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues I am a native to Fort Worth, I believe this gives me a true What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues and our City staff. All with a positive and results-oriented facing the governmental body to which you are seeking understanding of the community and their needs. In the facing the governmental body to which you are seeking approach. election? past, I served as a manufacturing company Chief Financial election? People are often critical of city and county government. Recovery from the pandemic. Transportation and Officer. I am running for City Council with a 12 Point Action Plan: What do you see as failures and successes of the Infrastructure. Quality of life: people who work here should I have a long history of working with local and state 1. Promptly respond to all citizen and neighborhood elected body you are seeking to join? be able to live here. elected officials as well. I was an advisor to former Fort needs; 2. Support our community’s COVID-19 recovery; I support democracy; as well as the belief that we can’t How might those issues change in two years? Worth Councilmember Kathleen Hicks and Fort Worth 3. Lower homeowner property taxes & user fees; 4. Ensure just pass the buck to our elected officials. We are all in this If we are an effective city government, plans and ISD School Board Member Ashley Paz. I am currently a safe neighborhoods & Quick response from fire, police together which means for a democracy to work it requires action will have taken place to start improving public national public policy strategist. & EMS; 5. Address road maintenance & traffic mobility; responsiveness, transparency and accountability from our transportation and neglected infrastructure, more folks Give us an example of past public service of which you 6. Independent audit of smart water meters; 7. Deliver elected leaders as well as involvement and participation who work in Fort Worth will be able to live here, and the are proud: quality & responsive city services; 8. Help local small & from our citizens as good neighbors, responsible pandemic will be completely eradicated. Communities are at their best when their members fully neighborhood businesses; 9. Quality parks and trail system; businesses, and in providing public-private community If you win election, what are your top three priorities to participate. Co-organizing the 2011 Mayoral Runoff Forum 10. Promote City-School partnerships; 11. Solve local service to those in need. accomplish and why? with the Arts Council. I signed up more than twenty neighborhood flooding issues; and 12. Provide homeless Why are you the best candidate for this office? Amber Shumake Courtesy 1. Transportation and Infrastructure organizations and neighborhood associations as sponsors, with assistance & solutions. As a City Council representative I will draw upon my During the snowstorm I was extremely fortunate to not and we filled the Scott Theater. How might those issues change in two years? experience from successfully starting and running local We must ensure whatever change will be positive. As businesses in Fort Worth like Firestone & Robertson OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council 7 have lost power. Knowing many people that did, I invited Recently volunteering at COVID-19 vaccine clinics and a OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 7 a member of the Mayor’s Task Force on COVID-19 Distillery Co. to tackle all issues with a service-oriented What is your age: 43 them over to warm up and have a home cooked meal. water distribution center following the recent winter storm. What is your age: 54 Recovery, I am working with others in addressing how and problem solving approach. Also, as a family man, City of residence: Fort Worth There were many stories just like this where neighbors did And every year since inception, volunteering for the Fort City of residence: Fort Worth all aspects of our health, family activities, our children’s home owner, taxpayer, community volunteer and neighbor Native of Tarrant County: Yes everything they could to support their fellow community Worth Food and Wine Festival. Native of Tarrant County: No education, and our local economy will be recovering from who shares the same issues as others in our city, I will City of birth: Fort Worth members. While this is always wonderful it is not City of birth: Akron, Ohio Name someone in politics that your consider a role the pandemic. approach all issues asking how they affect our families, our Profession: Public Policy Strategist When did you move into the political jurisdiction? sustainable. We should expect and demand city officials model and tell us why. Also, after this election cycle, our newly elected city neighborhoods, and our local businesses. Education: 04/02/2003 who lead effectively at all times, but especially in a crisis. My father and his many years of service as the former council will be adding 2 new city council districts in the Give us an example of past public service of which you Arlington Heights High School; The University of Texas Profession: Co-Founder of Firestone Robertson Strong leadership requires those who will fight to make President of the Ridgmar Neighborhood Association. upcoming redistricting process (going from 8 to 10 single are proud: at Dallas, Computer Science; SMU Caruth Institute, Distillery/Local Businessman sure failures such as the massive power outages do not I learned a lot by his example, and the discussions my member districts plus a Mayor) and I feel this will present Currently, I am honored to serve on the Mayor’s Entrepreneurship Certificate Program happen in the first place. Our water supply failures added parents had about issues, and the politics of dealing with Education: University of Colorado, BA in Political Science an opportunity to strengthen council representation for the COVID-19 Recovery Task Force and feel we have Significant recognitions/honors: insult to injury. the other neighborhood leaders; their wants and needs and Significant recognitions/honors: common and unique needs of both our older and newer provided a critical lifeline to local businesses and those in Eagle Scout 2. Neighborhood Services & Public Safety advocating with the City. - Nicole and I are the proud parents of 3 daughters and neighborhoods. need of government services during the past year. And as Have you held elective office before? No As an example - Years of neglect in police and fire and a son; also feel affordability is important and we must continue a Board Member of Visit Fort Worth, I believe our local EMS service in the North Fort Worth has to stop. - Currently Serve on Mayor’s Task Force for COVID-19 with our push for lower property taxes and city fees. economy greatly benefits from tourism and visitors who 3. Reducing Property Taxes Recovery; Finally, the Pandemic and Winter Storm experiences have spend money in our city. Additionally, I strongly believe The Texas Miracle must survive, and currently due to - Currently Serve on Visit Fort Worth Board of Directors taught us a valuable lesson — which is to not take things in giving back to the community. As a family – Nicole, I tax loopholes the burden to fund city and state property - Business recipient of Historic Fort Worth’s “Historic for granted. Our City leaders, first responders, City staff and our kids are actively involved in community service owners and on renters. Preservation Award” and community volunteers all do a great job, but it is the and in our faith involvement in Bible Study Fellowship If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that - Prior to co-founding Firestone & Robertson Distillery responsibility of our City Council to ask the right questions (BSF). Also, Firestone & Robertson is very supportive of be and why? (2010), my brothers and I co-founded a Fort Worth necessary to ensure our City is efficient and on target with local nonprofit projects including those for veterans and We need a council that recognizes and accepts that our cable television network and satellite uplink facility not only delivering city services which properly meet the first responders and has received a Historic Fort Worth city has a fundamental challenge: Our City government (2002). community’s needs, but also to ensure we are properly Preservation Award. needs to grow up and act like one of America’s largest Have you held elective officer before? No prepared for out-of-the-ordinary emergency situations. Name someone in politics that your consider a role cities. The guiding light for our city government, our local model and tell us why. Numerous examples persist: long overdue needed reforms businesses, and our residents moving forward will be our We have been blessed to have our own local Fort Worth to the broken occupancy and development permitting commitment to working together with a common purpose city officials as great community role models. I want to process. City Payroll systems have been broken for years across all neighborhoods to ensure that as things change, continue the energy and results-oriented commitment - missing paychecks & unusable pay stubs for staff to get Fort Worth is the best place in Texas to raise a family, work, of retiring Mayor Betsy Price and District 7 City approved for loans. and retire. Councilman Dennis Shingleton. I am also honored to People are often critical of city and county government. If you win election, what are your top three priorities to have their endorsements, as well as the endorsements of What do you see as failures and successes of the accomplish and why? Former Mayor Mike & Rosie Moncrief and former City elected body you are seeking to join? First, I feel COVID-19 recovery will require attention Councilman Bill and Pati Meadows. Folks often assume that the job only requires one to show from the City Council across many fronts especially with Additionally, I want to commend my fellow neighbors up once a week and take a vote. I believe the job requires supporting our local workers, businesses and schools. As who are involved in neighborhood associations and other much more. Our most successful city council members for specific priorities for District 7, based on what I have community projects as well as all of our first responders, heard from local residents, the most common concerns are always accessible and reachable. I plan to be both of medical community, teachers and essential workers for focus on the need for lower property taxes and user their commitment during this pandemic. Overall, I believe these things, and my future constituents will be heard and fees, neighborhood public safety and street repair/traffic behind every elected role model there are many other listened to. management. In short, each neighbor’s concern is a priority citizen role models. I have also been influenced by several As an example of a failure; We must demand and expect concern. business role models including my father, Kimball, who is a a mayor and council that doesn’t burn $25 million on a If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that successful businessman; and my great grandfather, Harvey, giveaway to a billionaire for a project that would be built be and why? who founded Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. They anyway. I will use the same approach to accountability and service engrained in their children and grandchildren the value of Why are you the best candidate for this office? on the City Council that I have used in running my local hard work and responsible public stewardship. For the past ten years the same person has occupied this businesses in that the customer is always right. Each seat, we now have a chance to elect fresh leadership. resident pays taxes and user fees and for this they deserve responsiveness from their City Council representative FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 27 FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 27 Zeb Pent Miguel Angel Zamora III issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking election? - The Art Institute; Veteran Honors – UTA Fort Worth has grown rapidly in the past ten years, and it’s vital that we have roads that work to move residents, families, Have you held elective office before? No and workers. Over 50% of District 7 commuters travel over 30 minutes to work. I will make sure efficient, effective roads What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking take priority and will work hard to ensure our Police and Fire Departments remain fully funded. election? Currently there are many pressing issues. ie: keeping small business alive, COVID-19, water leaks, and utilities emergency How might those issues change in two years? preparedness. First we have to listen to the residents of District 7 and find out what issues they perceive to be the most Efficient roads and a well-funded Police and Fire Department must stay at the top of our priority list, no matter what immediate. I’m not a politician and I don’t claim to know every issue in Fort Worth, what I can offer is to listen and to work changes Fort Worth faces. together with the community and the city to find solutions. How might those issues change in two years? If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? Many of these issues are already being addressed, and I’m hopeful that in two years they will no longer be issues. Efficient roads that work to move residents, families, and workers. If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? District 7 is a big area to cover to just have three priorities. Each area has its own issues and my focus is to listen to the Courtesy Reduce property taxes. Courtesy community and the different areas to help find solutions. Ensure our Police and Fire receive not only the funding they need, but the respect they deserve. Office: Fort Worth City Council District 7 OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 7 If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? Once again District 7 is a big area to narrow it down to one priority. After listening to the community we have to set What is your age: 41 If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? What is your age: 35 priorities that will tackle the most challenging issue. City of residence? Fort Worth I will work hard to accomplish all three. City of residence: Fort Worth People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected Ye s Native of Tarrant County? Native of Tarrant County: Yes body you are seeking to join? City of birth? Fort Worth People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected City of birth: Fort Worth There has been many successes such as building as blooming economy. One of the failures is that some stop listening to Profession? Entrepreneur body you are seeking to join? Profession: Senior Marketing Coordinator the constituents. Education: High school Fort Worth has failed to keep our taxes low. They have succeeded at keeping us safe. I will see to it that our city remains Education: North Side High School; The Art Institute Why are you the best candidate for this office? a safe place to live, work and raise a family. graduate of Fort Worth, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design; As I begin my journey into politics, I will go above expectations to listen to our community and work together to solve University of Texas at Arlington, Masters of Business issues within our district. While I served in the Marine Corps, I earned my rank as Sergeant. As a Sergeant, I was able to Administration Significant recognitions/honors: Why are you the best candidate for this office? listen, lead and instruct many marines. I would teach them to work together, help each other, and move forward. Nobody I’ve been an entrepreneur since I was 18 - trading the market, investing in real estate and starting a successful oil and gas Significant recognitions/honors: Magna Cum Laude - is left behind. I want to be able to plant a sense of pride and structure that will speak to our community of District 7. High School; Veteran Honors, Dean’s List, and 4.0 GPA service business that I was CEO of for ten years. I remain self-employed now as a business consultant. As a successful Above all I am a Family Man, Veteran, Friend, and loyal Fort Worth Native. Fort Worth is my home, and I want to keep “One’s pride will bring him low, but he who is humble in it safe for our children and our residents. I can’t wait to meet my wonderful neighbors and friends of District 7. I Miguel spirit will obtain honor. “ businessman, I’ve learned some important lessons that I will champion on the City Council. Zamora hope I can earn your vote on May 1, 2021. – Proverbs 29:23 Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: I served as President of Kidmia, an Ethiopian charity that worked to place orphans with a great family. Having spent time I enlisted into the United States Marine Corps after high school. My Marine Corps career took me to many places and Have you held elective office before? No in the country of Ethiopia and having the blessing of seeing orphans adopted into loving families, I was humbled to play a taught me many things. I started as a Private in MCAS Miramar San Diego, CA, served a tour in Iraq under operation “OIF”, and ended up a Sergeant in I&I Staff, Rochester, NY. I wore many hats from Admin Chief, Color Sergeant, Toys role there. I’ve had a heart for orphans since I was 18 years old and count myself blessed to work for their benefit. for Tots Coordinator. and Suicide Prevention Officer. What do you see as the most immediate pressing Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. I don’t have a political role model. My role model was my father, he taught me to work hard, do the right thing, and Ronald Reagan. No nonsense and he brought humor to the job. always treat everyone with respect. FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 28 FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 82 Kelly Allen Gray Christopher Johnson What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues Give us an example of past public service of which you election? facing the governmental body to which you are seeking are proud: Mixed Income Housing election? Of all of the community events that I’ve organized, I’m Water Equitable distribution Is what is needed for District 8 most proud of our Public Safety Expo. Transportation 1. economic development - building Efficient house With The George Floyd movement concerning racial ,commercial development ,update community centers injustice, I knew there was a national problem that also How might those issues change in two years? 2. public safety -mental wellness, plan of action for the affected us locally. We (Poly Heights Neighborhood I don’t foresee these changing for the better within the next two years. homeless, safer Neighborhood, youth programs Association) came up with the original idea to create a If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? series of workshops to be held quarterly in January, April 3. City resources - reallocate money from city and put the and July. Create more quality affordable and mixed income houses choices for homebuyers and renters. money back into community To start the conversation, we reached out to individuals Create more economic development projects across the district that consists of large and small businesses. How might those issues change in two years? and community residents that wanted to support but didn’t Work to create and protect those services that have a positive impact on senior citizens, children, and families. It will take over 2-4 years within two years you will see know where to start. At the end of the day we agreed Courtesy Courtesy If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? a positive change. Various areas in District 8 has been that we are all brothers and sisters regardless of race or overlooked for many, many years and my plan of action neighborhood. The creation of mixed income and permanent supportive housing projects equitably spread across the city would be my OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 8 OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 8 can start to rebuild our community. priority. We are at deficit producing housing for those transitioning out homelessness using our “housing first” model. After open and honest conversations focusing on What is your age: 52 Additionally, homebuyers and renters should have quality housing choices that are affordable not rendering them “house What is your age: Did not disclose If you win election, what are your top three priorities to definitions in a spirit of unity, the general consensus is that City of residence: Fort Worth poor” and unable to have a decent quality of life due to unaffordable mortgage or rental payments. City of residence: Fort Worth accomplish and why? there is indeed a need to re-think public safety. Native of Tarrant County: Yes People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected Native of Tarrant County: Yes 1. Economic development Our three part series of Public Safety expo was very impactful and meaningful! City of birth: Fort Worth body you are seeking to join? City of birth: Fort Worth 2. Public safety As the Fort Worth City Council, we may not always agree on an issue but we work well together on behalf of our The next public safety expo will be April 8, 2021. Profession: Public Servant Profession: Business entrepreneur 3. City resources constituents and the citizens, collectively. More information is available at www.polyheights.org Education: Education: If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that Why are you the best candidate for this office? be and why? Name someone in politics that your consider a role High School for Finance Professions at Polytechnic High High school Graduate; Business Management model and tell us why. School; Texas A & M - Commerce, Bachelor of Arts, I have worked on various projects, committees, and boards across the city. My passion is to help others and create a Economic development better place for the citizens of District 8 and Fort Worth to live, work, and raise a family. Significant recognitions/honors: English District 8 is in need fresh new leadership! The last large Thomas Jefferson was an American statesman, diplomat, My Business was recognized by D Magazine lawyer, architect, philosopher, and Founding Father Significant recognitions/honors: Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: major commercial development was in January 2013. who served as the principal author of the Declaration of One of my proudest moments of public service has been our District 8 response to this COVID-19 pandemic. Since Have you held elective office before? No Eight years have gone by while other communities Essence Magazine - People Who Are Making A Powerful Independence, which is the foundation of democracy. last April, in partnership with Fort Worth Fire Department, Community Food Bank, United Community Centers, and have flourished. As a business entrepreneur I have the Difference Jefferson was a proponent of democracy, republicanism, our Neighborhood Services Department, we have provided and delivered food 4 days a week to senior citizens and experience and an economic action plan to get the job and individual rights, something we are still fighting for 28 People to Watch in the Community families affected by the pandemic. Additionally, we have provided weekend meals to the children in the Ash Crescent done. Often residents have to drive outside of District 8 today. He motivated American colonists to break from Great Women of Texas community. Also, I’ve partnered with Greater True Light Baptist Church to host a monthly drive-thru food pantry in to accommodate them when they spend outside District the Kingdom of Great Britain and form a new nation; he partnership with Tarrant Area Food Bank. We recognized a need, came together to fill it, to insure those in need were 8 they are taking money and tax dollars outside of the Have you held elective office before? Ye s produced formative documents and decisions at both the supported. community that should stay within our district. Please describe: Currently serve as Councilmember for state and national levels. And he was The President of People are often critical of city and county government. District 8 Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. the United States. This man had an impressive impactful What do you see as failures and successes of the My political role model is the late Andrew “Doc” Session, who never held a political office yet understood the power resume. He created and made a difference that would elected body you are seeking to join? of the individual vote and using your collective voice to make change. He lived to make a difference in the life of his affect many, many generations and set the future standards students, family and friends, and most importantly his community. He loved the City of Fort Worth and the Riverside The zip code 76104 is known to have a very high infant for our nation. Community. mortality rate and people that live in 76104 on average won’t live to see their 67th birthday. Also it’s a food desert. Access to lack of quality nutritional foods this is within district 8 this is an example of one of many failures of the current city government. There’s a lack of transparency and action to eradicate these ongoing community issues. I’m running to combat and eliminate these issues. Why are you the best candidate for this office? I have over 25 years of experience as a successful entrepreneur working with a variety people from different socio-economic backgrounds. I am president of my Neighborhood Association. I have attained the ability to listen respectively and weigh- in differing opinions. I have the determination to look at what’s best for the community rather than was best for a specific friend or neighbor and also I’m willing and able to devote necessary time for this job. FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 28 FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 92 Chris Nettles Elizabeth Merritt Beck What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues hour, discrimination, and harassment claims, lead voter election? facing the governmental body to which you are seeking protection efforts at the local, state, and national level. I Lack of representation for District 8 in the Fort Worth city council. election? also volunteer my services to represent youth in crisis. How might those issues change in two years? - The looming housing crisis from lack of affordable My time in the Army taught me that leaders lead from the As an elected city council member, I will make sure to represent the needs and concerns of District 8. housing front, and how to work and live with people who do not If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? look, think or act like you to accomplish a mission. – Affordable housing - Lack of infrastructure to support our growing city, – Economic Development including transit, diverse housing options, and city services I firmly believe that my education, life, and professional – Public Transportation - Fort Worth’s shrinking commercial tax base and the need experience make me uniquely qualified to be a highly These three issues have plagued District 8 for years. With a stagnant incumbent, none of these issue will ever be to diversify economic development efforts to attract large effective member of the city council. I have the ability to resolved. These three issues represent the burden that many residents have in District 8, leading to poverty, oppression employers and provide an environment to grow local talent think broadly at the policy level, the experience applying that policy framework to on-the-ground applications, the and lack of flourishment. How might those issues change in two years? If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? courage to lead from the front on the toughest issues To solve the homelessness issue. This issue should be non-partisan. There are living, human beings on the streets of These are long-term issues which weren’t made overnight facing our city, the wisdom to know when it’s best to stop Courtesy Courtesy District 8 with nowhere to go. Society has turned their back on these people, but I will not. or in the last two years, and it will take more than two and listen, and the ability to work with others to accomplish People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected years to fix. However, I’m certain that milestones can be the goal. This is why I am the best choice for District 9 and OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 8 body you are seeking to join? OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 9 achieved to ensure we are meeting our goals. If the city Fort Worth. works with residents and businesses alike to address our What is your age: 33 For years, the city council has ignored any development in District 8, leaving District 8 to be a hollow shell of itself. All What is your age: 38 Give us an example of past public service of which you City of residence: Fort Worth efforts to improve the city are turned to wealthier districts in the westside. immediate housing needs, and focuses on revitalizing areas are proud: Native of Tarrant County: Yes City of residence: Fort Worth of the city that have been overlooked for generations, I am Why are you the best candidate for this office? I am incredibly proud of my service to our nation in the City of birth: Fort Worth Native of Tarrant County: Yes confident we will see marked improvement in two years. As a life-long resident of District 8, I know the concerns and needs of the people I will be serving. U.S. Army Reserves and the year I spent deployed in Taji, Profession: Local Business owner, Pastor Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: City of birth: Fort Worth If you win election, what are your top three priorities to Iraq. Education: I was a court clerk for seven years, where I served with pride. I also have been a community activist and help feed children accomplish and why? Profession: Employment Attorney Name someone in politics that your consider a role North Crowley High School; Dallas Baptist Ministries; of the community on a daily basis. - Investing in infrastructure to support and attract Education: model and tell us why. Entrepreneur Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. businesses and residents Significant recognitions/honors: Former President Barack Obama has been a strong role model for many, including myself. His ability to unite the voters University of Texas at Arlington, BA in Sociology, cum LBJ was incredibly ambitious, smart, brave and thought - Ensuring the city has a diverse housing stock First African-Male to run for mayor in the city of Fort is unique and admirable. laude (2007); University of Texas at Arlington, Masters big. His ambition was grounded in humility -- he had Worth in 2017. of City and Regional Planning (2011); Texas A&M - Cultivating a culture of entrepreneurship to foster “humbition.” He cared deeply for the people around him Have you held elective office before? No School of Law, Juris Doctor; Notes and Comments opportunities for Fort Worth and used his skills to put his passion into action. He had Editor, Texas A&M Journal of Real Property Law (2015) If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that a very strong inner compass that guided him, a compass that led him to make decisions based on what was best for Have you held elective office before? No be and why? our nation -- regardless of the political impact to him or Investing in the infrastructure Fort Worth needs to be Significant recognitions/honors: Army Commendation his party. He understood that the right thing to do was not competitive amongst its peers. This includes modernizing Medal and Annie’s List Steering Committee Chair always the easiest thing to do, but he was willing to put in our transportation system through transit initiatives and the work to see his goals accomplished. ensuring that City Hall provides the services residents and businesses need to be prosperous. People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected body you are seeking to join? The City of Fort Worth has had great successes in this time of unique growth. We are striking a balance between our need to innovate and change while not forgetting our roots. I believe well-run cities anticipate; we look at where we want to be and build a plan for those goals. For too long we have been reactionary without clear goals and a plan to accomplish those goals The creation of TIF districts to spur neighborhood revitalization is an example of how the Council’s focus on the future gave areas new life. Why are you the best candidate for this office? An effective city government starts from a place of fairness, equality, and thoughtful deliberation. As a city- planner, I learned how legislation and policy impacted communities for better or worse. I worked for the regional planning agency, where we had to facilitate the coordination of 16 counties and over two-hundred cities, including their staff and elected officials. This taught the power of cooperation and how to manage competing interests. As a lawyer I represent employees in wage and FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 28 FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 92 Chris Nettles Elizabeth Merritt Beck What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues hour, discrimination, and harassment claims, lead voter election? facing the governmental body to which you are seeking protection efforts at the local, state, and national level. I Lack of representation for District 8 in the Fort Worth city council. election? also volunteer my services to represent youth in crisis. How might those issues change in two years? - The looming housing crisis from lack of affordable My time in the Army taught me that leaders lead from the As an elected city council member, I will make sure to represent the needs and concerns of District 8. housing front, and how to work and live with people who do not If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? look, think or act like you to accomplish a mission. – Affordable housing - Lack of infrastructure to support our growing city, – Economic Development including transit, diverse housing options, and city services I firmly believe that my education, life, and professional – Public Transportation - Fort Worth’s shrinking commercial tax base and the need experience make me uniquely qualified to be a highly These three issues have plagued District 8 for years. With a stagnant incumbent, none of these issue will ever be to diversify economic development efforts to attract large effective member of the city council. I have the ability to resolved. These three issues represent the burden that many residents have in District 8, leading to poverty, oppression employers and provide an environment to grow local talent think broadly at the policy level, the experience applying that policy framework to on-the-ground applications, the and lack of flourishment. How might those issues change in two years? If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? courage to lead from the front on the toughest issues To solve the homelessness issue. This issue should be non-partisan. There are living, human beings on the streets of These are long-term issues which weren’t made overnight facing our city, the wisdom to know when it’s best to stop Courtesy Courtesy District 8 with nowhere to go. Society has turned their back on these people, but I will not. or in the last two years, and it will take more than two and listen, and the ability to work with others to accomplish People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected years to fix. However, I’m certain that milestones can be the goal. This is why I am the best choice for District 9 and OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 8 body you are seeking to join? OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 9 achieved to ensure we are meeting our goals. If the city Fort Worth. works with residents and businesses alike to address our What is your age: 33 For years, the city council has ignored any development in District 8, leaving District 8 to be a hollow shell of itself. All What is your age: 38 Give us an example of past public service of which you City of residence: Fort Worth efforts to improve the city are turned to wealthier districts in the westside. immediate housing needs, and focuses on revitalizing areas are proud: Native of Tarrant County: Yes City of residence: Fort Worth of the city that have been overlooked for generations, I am Why are you the best candidate for this office? I am incredibly proud of my service to our nation in the City of birth: Fort Worth Native of Tarrant County: Yes confident we will see marked improvement in two years. As a life-long resident of District 8, I know the concerns and needs of the people I will be serving. U.S. Army Reserves and the year I spent deployed in Taji, Profession: Local Business owner, Pastor Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: City of birth: Fort Worth If you win election, what are your top three priorities to Iraq. Education: I was a court clerk for seven years, where I served with pride. I also have been a community activist and help feed children accomplish and why? Profession: Employment Attorney Name someone in politics that your consider a role North Crowley High School; Dallas Baptist Ministries; of the community on a daily basis. - Investing in infrastructure to support and attract Education: model and tell us why. Entrepreneur Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. businesses and residents Significant recognitions/honors: Former President Barack Obama has been a strong role model for many, including myself. His ability to unite the voters University of Texas at Arlington, BA in Sociology, cum LBJ was incredibly ambitious, smart, brave and thought - Ensuring the city has a diverse housing stock First African-Male to run for mayor in the city of Fort is unique and admirable. laude (2007); University of Texas at Arlington, Masters big. His ambition was grounded in humility -- he had Worth in 2017. of City and Regional Planning (2011); Texas A&M - Cultivating a culture of entrepreneurship to foster “humbition.” He cared deeply for the people around him Have you held elective office before? No School of Law, Juris Doctor; Notes and Comments opportunities for Fort Worth and used his skills to put his passion into action. He had Editor, Texas A&M Journal of Real Property Law (2015) If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that a very strong inner compass that guided him, a compass that led him to make decisions based on what was best for Have you held elective office before? No be and why? our nation -- regardless of the political impact to him or Investing in the infrastructure Fort Worth needs to be Significant recognitions/honors: Army Commendation his party. He understood that the right thing to do was not competitive amongst its peers. This includes modernizing Medal and Annie’s List Steering Committee Chair always the easiest thing to do, but he was willing to put in our transportation system through transit initiatives and the work to see his goals accomplished. ensuring that City Hall provides the services residents and businesses need to be prosperous. People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected body you are seeking to join? The City of Fort Worth has had great successes in this time of unique growth. We are striking a balance between our need to innovate and change while not forgetting our roots. I believe well-run cities anticipate; we look at where we want to be and build a plan for those goals. For too long we have been reactionary without clear goals and a plan to accomplish those goals The creation of TIF districts to spur neighborhood revitalization is an example of how the Council’s focus on the future gave areas new life. Why are you the best candidate for this office? An effective city government starts from a place of fairness, equality, and thoughtful deliberation. As a city- planner, I learned how legislation and policy impacted communities for better or worse. I worked for the regional planning agency, where we had to facilitate the coordination of 16 counties and over two-hundred cities, including their staff and elected officials. This taught the power of cooperation and how to manage competing interests. As a lawyer I represent employees in wage and FORTFORT WORTH WORTH CITY CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL - -DISTRICT DISTRICT 2 9 FORTFORT WORTHWORTH CITYCITY COUNCILCOUNCIL -- DISTRICTDISTRICT 92 Fernando Peralta Sabrina Renteria What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues transparency, and lean in to negative feedback from the What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues focus on accurately appraising homes and finding ways to facing the governmental body to which you are seeking community as an opportunity to improve. I believe that facing the governmental body to which you are seeking cut the tax rate, where possible. election? city leaders have acted in a way that is adverse to conflict. election? People are often critical of city and county government. The COVID-19 public health crisis and related economic And I know that healthy conflict creates opportunities to District 9, much like Fort Worth as a whole, is a diverse What do you see as failures and successes of the downturn which will likely lead to shortfalls in the city improve. community that is experiencing growth at a record pace. elected body you are seeking to join? budget. I have been impressed with Chief Noakes in his first few I want to see our city continue to grow both in population Fort Worth is a fantastic place to live, work, and play. Our and in prosperity while maintaining our small-town feel city is a model for others and I see much more success than Limited access to good paying jobs, struggling small weeks on the job. He is directly addressing instances of and integrity. Keeping our neighborhoods and community failure. The key is to continue and build on these positive businesses, and chronic unemployment. individual racism and ethnic bias as they arise. He has used these opportunities to model the type of brave and leaders engaged in this process is key. We must work trends as our population increases. However challenges Inequities caused by systemic bias that have led to thoughtful leadership Fort Worth deserves. together and listen to every voice to create a vision that and failure do accompany growth. These challenges are disengaged communities, generational poverty, and other works for Fort Worth moving forward. The most pressing evident in some of the current infrastructure updates. The negative outcomes for communities of color. Why are you the best candidate for this office? issues I would like to see addressed are reducing property largest of these failures is clearly the Panther Island Project Fully implementing recommendations from the Race and My entire career has been dedicated to serving others. taxes, increasing public safety, fostering economic growth, which is still unfinished and has cost millions of taxpayer Culture Task Force as a starting point to improve racial First as a seminary student, then as a case worker for the Trish Dove/Beatbox and improving our transportation and roads. The rezoning dollars. Another area with apparent challenges is public Courtesy HR3 Portraits inequities. homeless community, and now as a member of the Texas of the Hemphill corridor is also of major concern for the transportation. While I appreciate the current government’s Army National Guard. 9th district specifically. efforts to improve public transit, implementing things How might those issues change in two years? OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District My heart is with the community I have lived in and proudly OFFICE: Fort Worth City Council District 9 How might those issues change in two years? like bike lanes and better sidewalks, some of these What is your age: 28 In two years’ time the pandemic will hopefully be over, and serve, and no other candidate has proven the ability What is your age: 37 As we know, those elected to City Council this year will be improvements have learning curves (i.e new traffic patterns the city will be responsible for rebuilding and economic City of residence: Fort Worth in charge of redistricting. District 9 is a large area made up that confuse drivers) and don’t seem to fully address the City of residence: Fort Worth to engage predominantly Latino neighborhoods like recovery. Rosemont. I have secured 3.1 million in public improvement Native of Tarrant County: Yes of many, diverse neighborhoods and will likely be split into needs of the communities they are in. Native of Tarrant County: No Small businesses have struggled, and many will not survive dollars for my neighborhood, and advocated for Rosemont City of birth: North Richland Hills different districts. This will change the area’s demographics Why are you the best candidate for this office? City of birth: San Juan, Puerto Rico the next two years. The city must do everything possible to pilot the new universal WiFi program that is designed to Profession: Event Production & Design and the issues facing residents over the course of the I am the best candidate for District 9 because I am District Education: I graduated from Azle High School in 2002. When did you move into the political jurisdiction? to empower small businesses and support historically address the digital divide. next few years. Hopefully, redrawing the district lines 9. I grew up here, I own businesses here, and I am raising I then went to Texas State University where I had the will allow for better representation for all of Fort Worth’s my family here. I am invested in my community. I can 07/01/2017 disenfranchised communities that have been hit especially I won’t be the most well-funded candidate in this race, but honor of interning with Governor Perry’s Press office communities and might help ease some of the city’s offer our district the balance it needs in a representative hard by the pandemic. If we act now, then we can limit this I have built coalitions and deep relationships across District Profession: Logistics Specialist, Texas Army National in Austin as well as Kay Granger’s district office here in growing pains. However, issues such as ever increasing because I am not a politician. Instead, I am a capable devastation, and help our residents survive this crisis. 9. That can’t be bought. Guard Fort Worth. Ultimately, I transferred to The University property taxes, the need for public safety, and promoting business woman and an experienced event planner with a The Fort Worth City Council has been at odds with Education: Give us an example of past public service of which you of North Texas and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in policies geared toward economic growth are always going clear plan for this city. I will be the voice our community residents for many years now over the handling of are proud: Philosophy. to be of concern for the people of Fort Worth, especially needs through relatability, a strong business acumen, and Trinity High School, Bedford, TX, 2010; St. Joseph’s several different issues centered around race and ethnic Significant recognitions/honors: as more people move here. a passion for this community that manifests in a desire to Seminary College, St. Benedict, LA, 2012-2014; discrimination. Having watched these developments I am most proud of my time as President and Founding I am proud to have served on the Board of The listen to my neighbors and understand their needs. Not University of Texas at Arlington, Bachelors in Business play out, it is clear that many of the people the council member of Las Familias De Rosemont neighborhood If you win election, what are your top three priorities to Professional Wedding Guild of Fort Worth for the past 3 only am I ready to listen, but I am ready to roll up my Administration in progress, on hold during military represents does not feel heard and questions how the association. This role put me in a position to regularly accomplish and why? years. 1) Lowering Property Taxes: High property taxes are sleeves and take needed action to accomplish our goals. service. 2016-2018; Texas Army National Guard, Basic council as a whole values public participation. Without speak truth to power on behalf of the neighbors I serve. Have you held elective office before? No forcing people out of their homes, as well as making home Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), April immediate action to address racial disparities and division We re-formed our neighborhood association after the Give us an example of past public service of which you ownership unattainable for many. Even renters feel the 2018-August 2018 in an intentional way, the problems will only get worse. previous group was unlisted by the city. After many, are proud: many years of disengagement, Rosemont was named backlash from increasing property taxes. I want to make My event companies work with many of the charitable Significant recognitions/honors: But that doesn’t have to be the case. City leaders can “Neighborhood of the Year” by the city of Fort Worth in sure our residents’ homes are accurately appraised and the organizations in Fort Worth planning events and raising 2015 Case Manager of the Year for Tarrant County, for and should do better by all of our residents by treating 2019, just two years after reconstitution of the association. tax rate is fair so that housing is more affordable for all. money for their causes. I am extremely proud of my demonstrating professional excellence, leadership and them (us) as humans with hopes and dreams, rather than 2) Increasing Public Safety: As the population grows so companies community partnerships because I understand Name someone in politics that your consider a role innovation in service and dedication to the homeless. problems to be solved. A great place to start is with fully does the need for public safety. We must make sure our the importance of local charities and get so much joy from implementing the recommendations of the Race and model and tell us why. First Aid CPR AED Certified, by the American Heart police and fire departments are both well-trained and well- helping them host phenomenal events to achieve their Culture Task Force While not a political figure in the traditional sense, you Association funded so they can handle rising demand and better help visions in our community. If you win election, what are your top three priorities to can’t deny that Fr. Steven Jasso was a political force. the communities they serve. Name someone in politics that your consider a role Mental Health First Aid USA Certified, trained to accomplish and why? I always thought he was an incredible man and Priest, 3) Economic Development: Fort Worth has enjoyed model and tell us why. provide initial help to people experiencing mental health because he was unapologetic in his advocacy for our a robust economy but with the devastating effects of It is not one, but two local women who sparked my desire problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis Fully implementing the recommendations of the Race and Hispanic communities, especially our immigrant brothers COVID-19 shutdowns still lingering for families, small for public service. First, is my aunt Barbara Ferrell, former and substance use disorders. Culture Task Force. and sisters. businesses, and the economy it is crucial our new council Justice of the Peace Precinct 1. Watching her hold her SATORI, Alternatives to Managing Aggressions, Expand supports in place for individuals and small has business and economic development at the forefront position with passion and grace showed me what a true Certified by MHMR of Tarrant County businesses as the economy opens back up. of their vision for the future. We need to support small leader is. Also inspiring to watch, was my step-mother, 42A - Human Resources Specialist with the Texas Army Mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. businesses and to make sure that anyone with the desire Amy Ferrell, who was Chief Deputy of Judicial Services. National Guard If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that to follow the American dream can become a successful I have spent a lifetime surrounded by strong female civil business owner with no impediments to the process. We servants and I want to continue that legacy. GCSS-Army, Global Combat Support System, is the be and why? also need to focus on bringing new jobs to Fort Worth to tactical unit/installation logistics and financial system for Addressing the economic fallout related to the COVID-19 increase opportunity. the U.S. Army. pandemic. By addressing this with transparency and being If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that GFEBS, General Fund Enterprise Business System, a intentional about the how we are serving the hardest hit be and why? Web-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system communities, the other issues I have mentioned should fall At risk of getting repetitive I would have to say property for the United States Army. into place. taxes take this one. It is the number one issue people Have you held elective officer before? No People are often critical of city and county government. bring up when I discuss our city and it is clearly where the What do you see as failures and successes of the general public wants the government to focus at all levels, elected body you are seeking to join? statewide. Everyone can agree on this issue. We need to The city has to meet people where they are, act with FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 8 FORT WORTH ISD- DISTRICT 9 FORT WORTH ISD - DISTRICT 9 Anael Luebanos Cade Lovelace What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking put into place and that each school receives the resources your education. Trustees should be making all decisions small business for 15 years, where my wife and I work with 5 other attorneys. I have been awarded numerous Top Attorney awards, both locally and statewide. And I election? to be successful in implementing this plan. centered around the student achievement of all children. have two children in Fort Worth ISD, one in kindergarten and the other in 4th grade. The most immediate pressing need at the FWISD is to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has However, if the district is not recovering from the Children of color make up 89% of students in FWISD. I am proud of my city and my community, and have tried hard to serve them. I served as president of Ryan Place Improvement Association for 4 years, standing Successfully educating these children must be a priority for significantly impaired education in our state. Teachers do two jobs with both in-person and virtual learning for their educational loss, as Trustee I will leave no options off the before both the city council and the school board and resolving neighborhood issues. I served on the FWISD District Advisory Committee. I have been on numerous improving FWISD. students and children have had difficult transitions to the virtual learning model. The sooner we can safely and effectively table to successfully educate our kids and recover from the community committees and boards, including the Hemphill Corridor Force and the League of Neighborhoods. I am the president of Daggett Montessori PTA, helping move back to in-person learning options for all students the better. This is one reason I have championed getting our COVID slide. All preschoolers should have access to early learning the school work through COVID issues. I have served as the president of my county bar association. I know how to manage budgets, how to work in a group, and how teachers vaccinated. I would be open to more instruction times and days to centers. These centers are not available in all parts of the to advocate for the things I believe in. city, and they need to be available in the areas with the Enhancing academic performance is key and my efforts will continue to focus on making our schools safe, quiet and supplement our current school schedule. I would be Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: most need. FWISD may need to locate additional private disciplined centers of learning. open to different instruction models or different school In 2019, we had a child abduction in our neighborhood. This event grew our neighborhood closer, but also made us motivated to prevent this type of incident from calendars. COVID-19 created an emergency situation that partners for expansion of these centers. How might those issues change in two years? happening again. Along with Joan Kline, I chaired a task force appointed by our neighborhood improvement association to address the issues we experienced to help the district addressed with the best intentions. And now Additionally, FWISD should expand the Leadership improve policies so both Amber Alerts would be more timely and neighborhoods could have better communication with the FWPD during an immediate time of crisis. In two years I am hoping we are well behind the COVID Pandemic. Additionally I am hoping the district is showing signs FWISD must act with the same diligence to recover the Academy model. The district needs to place more high I believe the questions our task force asked help better protect children in Fort Worth. of academic performance. lost instruction and to recuperate the previous momentum. performing teachers at low performing campuses, and this model allows for flexibility in doing so. The current Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. Courtesy If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? Courtesy How might those issues change in two years? Leadership Academies have shown success and expanding The person who I consider a role model most in politics is one of our community’s leaders, Joan Kline. She is one of the smartest and most determined persons that I These are the three priorities of my next four years: Some students may be able to recover from the COVID them into lower performing campuses can alleviate some have met. She has been instrumental in the development of the Near Southside. Joan has the ability to understand the entire situation and cut directly to the issue at OFFICE: FWISD District 8 1. We must successfully navigate through the challenges presented by the COVID -19 pandemic. That means recovering OFFICE: Fort Worth ISD Trustee District 9 slide in two years, however many may not. Therefore, of the historical inequities in FWISD. hand, which simplifies and then resolves many issues. And she will not take no for an answer! increasing student achievement will always need to be What is your age: 36 our children who have fallen behind. What is your age: 41 addressed. I do not believe that this will change in two If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that City of residence: Fort Worth 2. The next immediate goal is improving academic performance in the classroom. Developing foundational skills in our City of residence: Fort Worth years. be and why? elementary schools seems to be key. Native of Tarrant County: Yes Native of Tarrant County: Yes If you win election, what are your top three priorities to The COVID slide will have such a major impact on how our students succeed. Accomplishing this priority will City of birth: Fort Worth 3. My next priority, sparking parental engagement, is critical to academic performance, graduation rates and eliminating City of birth: Grapevine accomplish and why? discipline problems in the classroom. resolve many of the other issues within FWISD and will Profession: Accountant Profession: Attorney/Small Business Owner My top three priorities are as follows: place it on a successful path. This is something I have been focused on in my first term at District 8 schools particularly in our working class Grapevine High School; Texas Christian Education: Education: 1. FWISD needs to address the COVID slide as the People are often critical of city and county government. neighborhoods. University, Fort Worth, Texas emergency that it is. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, R.L. Paschal High School, Fort Worth Texas 2004; What do you see as failures and successes of the If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? the district was on an upward trajectory in many areas. Texas Wesleyan University, BBA, 2009; Texas Wesleyan B.A. – 2002, Honors: Dean’s List; Texas Tech University elected body you are seeking to join? However, due to the instruction loss from the impact of the University, MBA, 2009 If I can focus on one priority it will be to ensure that we improve our academic performance in the FWISD. Getting very School of Law, Lubbock, Honors: Magna Cum Laude, FWISD is a great place. When you enter a school in child on a path to college readiness or technical vocational training. Also this means we must hold our administration Order of the Coif COVID-19 virus, our students will show a significant loss of Significant recognitions/honors: momentum. FWISD, you feel the pride that the principal, teachers, staff accountable for crafting and executing the game plan to improve educational outcomes at every level. Significant recognitions/honors: and students have in that school. You can see this pride in The United Hispanic Council of Tarrant County, FWISD needs a plan supported by the community and People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected the way the principals talk about their schools, the way the Hispanic Heritage Award October 2011 Recognized as Rising Star by Super Lawyers, a Thomson understood by the community to reclaim this loss. A plan body you are seeking to join? Reuters Service teachers talk about their students and the way students Have you held elective office before? Ye s supported by the community will instill confidence in the describe their schools to others. It is infectious. Our district has many challenges and they closely mirror the challenges presented in our modern society. More than Recognized as Top Attorney Fort Worth Magazine District and its decision makers. As a Trustee, I will ensure Please describe: any other entity, a school district feels and reflect the problems of society and of the home. Poverty, homelessness, drug However, FWISD does not let this pride tell the story of Burleson Star Best Attorney that the plan is put into place and that each school receives FWISD School Board Member District 8 addiction, alcoholism, and the fracturing of families all directly impact the ability of children to learn. Our district must do the resources to be successful in implementing this plan. the district. Many times, FWISD’s story is told through a better job of helping to engage parents in their childrens’ education. Have you held elective office before? No disruptive board meetings or failures to communicate - 2. We need leadership from the FWISD Board that is the type of events that take away from FWISD’s central Why are you the best candidate for this office? What do you see as the most immediate pressing centered on student achievement. Many do not trust their purpose - to make students college, career and military issues facing the governmental body to which you are leaders in this community, and believe that their voices are That is a decision for the voters. What I can say is that I think I work hard on a daily basis to connect parents and students seeking election? ready. to resources and assistance. Many of the schools in our District 8 have challenges, and I serve as a resource to enhance never heard. Many feel they have been left out of decisions Why are you the best candidate for this office? the voices of parents and children in working class neighborhoods to ensure their needs are met The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our world that directly affect them. The district’s leaders must openly dramatically. Specifically related to the FWISD and clearly share their decisions and decision-making FWISD needs strong and serious leadership. FWISD’s Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: community, it has affected how students receive their processes. We need buy-in from the community and our budget is almost $1 billion dollars. It employs around I like to work with my colleagues to find common ground. Compromise too often is a dirty word with ideologues. education and how teachers deliver their instruction trustees should be in front of the community sharing their 12,000 people and has close to 85,000 students. Only Principled compromise is important for the proper functioning of a democracy. That is the roll that I play on the board. for the past year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, decision making processes. American Airlines and Lockheed Martin employ more the district was on an upward trajectory in many areas. Sometimes we need to lower the volume and listen to each other. As a trustee, I will explore new ways to communicate with people in Tarrant County. It is the largest bill we all pay with However, due to the instruction loss from the impact of Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. the community, particularly the way information is shared our property taxes. We deserve experienced, dedicated the COVID virus, our students will show a significant loss at meetings and from the schools. When decision-making leadership for the district. When I attended Paschal High School, I learned in history classes about by leaders like former President Harry Truman, of momentum. processes are fully transparent, the community can better My parents were public educators for over 25 years each. a man who spoke plainly and honestly to the public. He did not try to be who he was not. He served without deception, FWISD must address this COVID slide like the understand the issues before the board and the complexity The public education system provided a profession for dishonesty or personal aggrandizement. That is a standard I strive to meet. emergency that it is. For some students, it will take a year of their decisions. Transparency in local governance leads them and food on the table for my sister and I. They to catch up. For many, it will take longer to recover this to trust in local governance. instilled in me the importance of public education. lost instruction. Many citizens in Fort Worth are looking for alternatives They were teachers, then assistant principals, and have FWISD needs a plan supported by the community and to educate their children outside of FWISD. Or they are now retired and receive their teacher retirement. Their understood by the community to reclaim this loss. A considering not living in Fort Worth at all. Trust in the dedication and sacrifice gave me a work ethic and plan supported by the community will instill confidence FWISD board’s decision-making processes can make the highlighted the importance of public education. in the District and its decision makers. FWISD’s Chief district more appealing to current or new residents. As a I attended public schools, TCU, and then Texas Tech Academic Officer recently instituted changes that trustee, I will ensure that all decisions are made with the School of Law. I played football long enough at TCU to be address this COVID slide. This plan provides more singular goal of increasing student achievement in mind, a blocking dummy for LaDainian Tomlinson. After enough resources to the schools that need them and directs a and that all decisions are made in a way in a manner in of those practices, I determined I needed to find a better new structure for the school day amongst many other which the community can have confidence. way to spend my time and concentrated on academics. changes. This plan needs to be successfully implemented 3. The zip code you live in should not affect the quality of I graduated in the Top 10% of my law school class, using in every school. As a Trustee, I will ensure that this plan is student loans to pay for law school. I have run my own FORT WORTH CITY COUNCIL - DISTRICT 8 FORT WORTH ISD- DISTRICT 9 FORT WORTH ISD - DISTRICT 9 Anael Luebanos Cade Lovelace What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues facing the governmental body to which you are seeking put into place and that each school receives the resources your education. Trustees should be making all decisions small business for 15 years, where my wife and I work with 5 other attorneys. I have been awarded numerous Top Attorney awards, both locally and statewide. And I election? to be successful in implementing this plan. centered around the student achievement of all children. have two children in Fort Worth ISD, one in kindergarten and the other in 4th grade. The most immediate pressing need at the FWISD is to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has However, if the district is not recovering from the Children of color make up 89% of students in FWISD. I am proud of my city and my community, and have tried hard to serve them. I served as president of Ryan Place Improvement Association for 4 years, standing Successfully educating these children must be a priority for significantly impaired education in our state. Teachers do two jobs with both in-person and virtual learning for their educational loss, as Trustee I will leave no options off the before both the city council and the school board and resolving neighborhood issues. I served on the FWISD District Advisory Committee. I have been on numerous improving FWISD. students and children have had difficult transitions to the virtual learning model. The sooner we can safely and effectively table to successfully educate our kids and recover from the community committees and boards, including the Hemphill Corridor Force and the League of Neighborhoods. I am the president of Daggett Montessori PTA, helping move back to in-person learning options for all students the better. This is one reason I have championed getting our COVID slide. All preschoolers should have access to early learning the school work through COVID issues. I have served as the president of my county bar association. I know how to manage budgets, how to work in a group, and how teachers vaccinated. I would be open to more instruction times and days to centers. These centers are not available in all parts of the to advocate for the things I believe in. city, and they need to be available in the areas with the Enhancing academic performance is key and my efforts will continue to focus on making our schools safe, quiet and supplement our current school schedule. I would be Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: most need. FWISD may need to locate additional private disciplined centers of learning. open to different instruction models or different school In 2019, we had a child abduction in our neighborhood. This event grew our neighborhood closer, but also made us motivated to prevent this type of incident from calendars. COVID-19 created an emergency situation that partners for expansion of these centers. How might those issues change in two years? happening again. Along with Joan Kline, I chaired a task force appointed by our neighborhood improvement association to address the issues we experienced to help the district addressed with the best intentions. And now Additionally, FWISD should expand the Leadership improve policies so both Amber Alerts would be more timely and neighborhoods could have better communication with the FWPD during an immediate time of crisis. In two years I am hoping we are well behind the COVID Pandemic. Additionally I am hoping the district is showing signs FWISD must act with the same diligence to recover the Academy model. The district needs to place more high I believe the questions our task force asked help better protect children in Fort Worth. of academic performance. lost instruction and to recuperate the previous momentum. performing teachers at low performing campuses, and this model allows for flexibility in doing so. The current Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. Courtesy If you win election, what are your top three priorities to accomplish and why? Courtesy How might those issues change in two years? Leadership Academies have shown success and expanding The person who I consider a role model most in politics is one of our community’s leaders, Joan Kline. She is one of the smartest and most determined persons that I These are the three priorities of my next four years: Some students may be able to recover from the COVID them into lower performing campuses can alleviate some have met. She has been instrumental in the development of the Near Southside. Joan has the ability to understand the entire situation and cut directly to the issue at OFFICE: FWISD District 8 1. We must successfully navigate through the challenges presented by the COVID -19 pandemic. That means recovering OFFICE: Fort Worth ISD Trustee District 9 slide in two years, however many may not. Therefore, of the historical inequities in FWISD. hand, which simplifies and then resolves many issues. And she will not take no for an answer! increasing student achievement will always need to be What is your age: 36 our children who have fallen behind. What is your age: 41 addressed. I do not believe that this will change in two If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that City of residence: Fort Worth 2. The next immediate goal is improving academic performance in the classroom. Developing foundational skills in our City of residence: Fort Worth years. be and why? elementary schools seems to be key. Native of Tarrant County: Yes Native of Tarrant County: Yes If you win election, what are your top three priorities to The COVID slide will have such a major impact on how our students succeed. Accomplishing this priority will City of birth: Fort Worth 3. My next priority, sparking parental engagement, is critical to academic performance, graduation rates and eliminating City of birth: Grapevine accomplish and why? discipline problems in the classroom. resolve many of the other issues within FWISD and will Profession: Accountant Profession: Attorney/Small Business Owner My top three priorities are as follows: place it on a successful path. This is something I have been focused on in my first term at District 8 schools particularly in our working class Grapevine High School; Texas Christian Education: Education: 1. FWISD needs to address the COVID slide as the People are often critical of city and county government. neighborhoods. University, Fort Worth, Texas emergency that it is. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, R.L. Paschal High School, Fort Worth Texas 2004; What do you see as failures and successes of the If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that be and why? the district was on an upward trajectory in many areas. Texas Wesleyan University, BBA, 2009; Texas Wesleyan B.A. – 2002, Honors: Dean’s List; Texas Tech University elected body you are seeking to join? However, due to the instruction loss from the impact of the University, MBA, 2009 If I can focus on one priority it will be to ensure that we improve our academic performance in the FWISD. Getting very School of Law, Lubbock, Honors: Magna Cum Laude, FWISD is a great place. When you enter a school in child on a path to college readiness or technical vocational training. Also this means we must hold our administration Order of the Coif COVID-19 virus, our students will show a significant loss of Significant recognitions/honors: momentum. FWISD, you feel the pride that the principal, teachers, staff accountable for crafting and executing the game plan to improve educational outcomes at every level. Significant recognitions/honors: and students have in that school. You can see this pride in The United Hispanic Council of Tarrant County, FWISD needs a plan supported by the community and People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected the way the principals talk about their schools, the way the Hispanic Heritage Award October 2011 Recognized as Rising Star by Super Lawyers, a Thomson understood by the community to reclaim this loss. A plan body you are seeking to join? Reuters Service teachers talk about their students and the way students Have you held elective office before? Ye s supported by the community will instill confidence in the describe their schools to others. It is infectious. Our district has many challenges and they closely mirror the challenges presented in our modern society. More than Recognized as Top Attorney Fort Worth Magazine District and its decision makers. As a Trustee, I will ensure Please describe: any other entity, a school district feels and reflect the problems of society and of the home. Poverty, homelessness, drug However, FWISD does not let this pride tell the story of Burleson Star Best Attorney that the plan is put into place and that each school receives FWISD School Board Member District 8 addiction, alcoholism, and the fracturing of families all directly impact the ability of children to learn. Our district must do the resources to be successful in implementing this plan. the district. Many times, FWISD’s story is told through a better job of helping to engage parents in their childrens’ education. Have you held elective office before? No disruptive board meetings or failures to communicate - 2. We need leadership from the FWISD Board that is the type of events that take away from FWISD’s central Why are you the best candidate for this office? What do you see as the most immediate pressing centered on student achievement. Many do not trust their purpose - to make students college, career and military issues facing the governmental body to which you are leaders in this community, and believe that their voices are That is a decision for the voters. What I can say is that I think I work hard on a daily basis to connect parents and students seeking election? ready. to resources and assistance. Many of the schools in our District 8 have challenges, and I serve as a resource to enhance never heard. Many feel they have been left out of decisions Why are you the best candidate for this office? the voices of parents and children in working class neighborhoods to ensure their needs are met The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our world that directly affect them. The district’s leaders must openly dramatically. Specifically related to the FWISD and clearly share their decisions and decision-making FWISD needs strong and serious leadership. FWISD’s Give us an example of past public service of which you are proud: community, it has affected how students receive their processes. We need buy-in from the community and our budget is almost $1 billion dollars. It employs around I like to work with my colleagues to find common ground. Compromise too often is a dirty word with ideologues. education and how teachers deliver their instruction trustees should be in front of the community sharing their 12,000 people and has close to 85,000 students. Only Principled compromise is important for the proper functioning of a democracy. That is the roll that I play on the board. for the past year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, decision making processes. American Airlines and Lockheed Martin employ more the district was on an upward trajectory in many areas. Sometimes we need to lower the volume and listen to each other. As a trustee, I will explore new ways to communicate with people in Tarrant County. It is the largest bill we all pay with However, due to the instruction loss from the impact of Name someone in politics that your consider a role model and tell us why. the community, particularly the way information is shared our property taxes. We deserve experienced, dedicated the COVID virus, our students will show a significant loss at meetings and from the schools. When decision-making leadership for the district. When I attended Paschal High School, I learned in history classes about by leaders like former President Harry Truman, of momentum. processes are fully transparent, the community can better My parents were public educators for over 25 years each. a man who spoke plainly and honestly to the public. He did not try to be who he was not. He served without deception, FWISD must address this COVID slide like the understand the issues before the board and the complexity The public education system provided a profession for dishonesty or personal aggrandizement. That is a standard I strive to meet. emergency that it is. For some students, it will take a year of their decisions. Transparency in local governance leads them and food on the table for my sister and I. They to catch up. For many, it will take longer to recover this to trust in local governance. instilled in me the importance of public education. lost instruction. Many citizens in Fort Worth are looking for alternatives They were teachers, then assistant principals, and have FWISD needs a plan supported by the community and to educate their children outside of FWISD. Or they are now retired and receive their teacher retirement. Their understood by the community to reclaim this loss. A considering not living in Fort Worth at all. Trust in the dedication and sacrifice gave me a work ethic and plan supported by the community will instill confidence FWISD board’s decision-making processes can make the highlighted the importance of public education. in the District and its decision makers. FWISD’s Chief district more appealing to current or new residents. As a I attended public schools, TCU, and then Texas Tech Academic Officer recently instituted changes that trustee, I will ensure that all decisions are made with the School of Law. I played football long enough at TCU to be address this COVID slide. This plan provides more singular goal of increasing student achievement in mind, a blocking dummy for LaDainian Tomlinson. After enough resources to the schools that need them and directs a and that all decisions are made in a way in a manner in of those practices, I determined I needed to find a better new structure for the school day amongst many other which the community can have confidence. way to spend my time and concentrated on academics. changes. This plan needs to be successfully implemented 3. The zip code you live in should not affect the quality of I graduated in the Top 10% of my law school class, using in every school. As a Trustee, I will ensure that this plan is student loans to pay for law school. I have run my own FORT WORTH ISD DISTRICT 9 R oxanne Martinez disparities, were significantly revealed during the up attending the same Fort Worth ISD schools that my pandemic. It is urgent that Fort Worth ISD implement children now attend. As a first-generation college graduate plans that re-engage and support its vulnerable students from a low-income Latino family, I know firsthand the and utilize data-driven strategies to tackle learning loss. challenges and struggles faced by many students in our school district. I know that students like myself can succeed How might those issues change in two years? with the right guidance, resources, and tools. With more Learning loss as a result of the COVID pandemic will than 84% of our district’s students classified as economically have a long-lasting effect on many students and may disadvantaged and over 86% of our district population exacerbate student achievement gaps in the coming years. being students of color, I will ensure that all students and Furthermore, funding cuts and loss of funding are also likely communities are represented. to widen the achievement gap. These next two years will be As a community advocate that has been working a critical period that will require an intense focus on student with youth and volunteering in Fort Worth ISD schools outcomes, equitable allocation of resources and school- for over a decade, I have listened and learned from community partnerships that support student learning. students, educators, administrators and parents. Through community programs and collaborative initiatives, I have If you win election, what are your top three priorities to successfully engaged communities that are typically accomplish and why? underrepresented. Serving on numerous nonprofit and If elected, I will work collaboratively with the Board to civic boards, such as the Fort Worth ISD District Advisory implement policy that: 1) focuses intensely on improving Committee, Community Action Partners Council, Fort student outcomes; 2) uses equity framework to develop Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Diamond Hill goals and strategies; and 3) fosters impactful school- North Side Youth Association, Blue Zones Project Fort community partnerships that support student learning. I Worth Steering Committee and site-based decision- R oxanne Martinez / StyleFW Pictures/Rachel DeLira believe if we prioritize these things, we can remove barriers making committees for two public schools, I have to student achievement and make our schools a place where dedicated countless hours to improving the well-being of NAME: Roxanne Martinez all kids can thrive. To learn more about my platform, visit: children and families, fundraising for meaningful causes https://roxanne4fwisd.com/platform/ and managing collaborative projects. As a servant leader OFFICE: Fort Worth ISD School Board Trustee District 9 with a passion for education, I will work hard to ensure that What is your age: 40 If you can accomplish only one priority, what would our schools are a place where all kids can thrive and feel City of residence: Fort Worth that be and why? empowered to succeed. If I could only accomplish one priority as a Board Trustee, Native of Tarrant County: Ye s it would be to focus intensely on improving student Give us an example of past public service of which you City of birth: Fort Worth outcomes. The Fort Worth ISD Board of Education is are proud: tasked with developing and improving the educational Public service is such a big part of my life. What I am Profession: Marketing Consultant/Small Business Owner system. To accomplish that, the Board must diligently focus most proud of is that serving our community is a family Education: on the factors that have the greatest impact on student affair in my household. From coordinating food and PPE Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School (FWISD), Fort Worth; learning and achievement, which includes recruiting, distributions throughout the pandemic to organizing Bachelor of Science in Journalism/Communications, retaining and supporting quality teachers. Christmas toy drives and Back to School supply giveaways, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Marketing my family and I take great pride in serving our community. Management Graduate Certificate, University of Dallas, People are often critical of city and county During the pandemic, we collaborated with community Irving. government. What do you see as failures and successes partners and schools to distribute over 205,000 masks Significant recognitions/honors: of the elected body you are seeking to join? to the community. This school year, we distributed 1,500 2020 Chairman’s Award, Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Working as a consultant with Read Fort Worth and backpacks filled with school supplies to students in the Commerce completing a Leadership ISD Fellowship gave me the Diamond Hill, Northside and Riverside areas. Last month, opportunity to take a deep dive into the district’s data I joined forces with neighbors and community members to 2018 Great Women of Texas, Fort Worth Business Press around student achievement. What I found were long- host a drive-up COVID vaccine registration event where 2016 Healthcare Hero, Fort Worth Business Press standing achievement gaps for students of color and we registered 172 individuals for the vaccine. However, economically disadvantaged students. However, I also the service that brings me the most joy is serving over 2016 Community Advocate Award, Living Beyond Breast learned about “Bright Spots” within Fort Worth ISD, 300 youth annually through the Diamond Hill North Side Cancer where strong school leadership, high-quality teachers Youth Association, where our mission is to foster physical and community partnerships are truly making a positive and intellectual development of our youth, as well as Have you held elective office before? impact on student outcomes. I want to see Fort Worth ISD engage kids in leadership, sportsmanship, self-respect, and No replicate the success of these Bright Spots throughout the life enrichment. district. Another area for improvement is around parent What do you see as the most immediate pressing engagement. Early during the pandemic, I heard from many Name someone in politics that your consider a role issues facing the governmental body to which you are parents that felt disconnected from the information that model and tell us why. seeking election? they needed to help their students succeed. Since then, Before Barack Obama and Kamala Harris, there was One of the most pressing issues facing the Fort Worth communication has significantly improved. I believe there Shirley Chisholm. The first African American woman ISD School Board is the student achievement gap. Even is room for improvement in how the district reaches and elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and also the prior to the pandemic, only 35% of Fort Worth ISD engages parents. first African American from a major political party to run for students met grade-level expectations. The COVID president wanted to be remembered as a woman who dared pandemic has disrupted learning for all students and Why are you the best candidate for this office? to be a catalyst for change in America. She is remembered further compounded gaps in student achievement As a local small business owner, nonprofit leader, mother for the power of her speeches, her fortitude, and her brutal for students of color and economically disadvantaged of two, and aunt to nieces and nephews in 7 different Fort honesty about racism, sexism politics. You may have heard students. Existing inequities affecting student learning, Worth ISD schools, I am running for Fort Worth ISD School her favorite saying: “If they won’t give you a seat at the such as technology access, food insecurity and health Board Trustee to champion the needs of all students. I grew table, bring a folding chair.” TARRANT REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT Glenda Murray Thompson What do you see as the most immediate pressing issues We’ve all been made aware of some of the issues regarding facing the governmental body to which you are seeking TRWD that resonate some organizational failures but election? bringing water to more than 2 million people and water In my opinion, there are two main pressing issues that face management is no easy task and comes with a variety of TRWD. First, to remain forward thinking and on task to challenges. accommodate the future water needs of the area. Tarrant However, I see the successes in industry awards such County is expected to grow from its current population as: The prestigious George W. Fuller award that honors of 2.1 million to top 9 million by 2030. TRWD must association members for their distinguished service to the be innovative and focused to grow the organization to water supply field; The Outstanding Subscriber Award support such increases. for Applied Research which honors utilities that have The second pressing issue is information and made notable improvements to their treatment, delivery, communication equity. TRWD should establish a and/or management processes to protect both the more aggressive outreach to communicate messaging environment and public health and many other industry acknowledgements. These awards, in and of themselves Courtesy to a broader population. To present programs about environmental sustainability to minority students may not resonate success but the fact that TRWD is receiving such recognition should be linked to its success OFFICE: Tarrant Regional Water District Board of in underserved areas or to express the nature and and innovation to stay on the cutting edge of science and Directors significance of what they do to ensure we all have water, flood control and water recreation. TRWD should do a technology to deliver the valuable commodity of water What is your age: 66 better job of telling the organization’s story, especially the that we all depend on it to do. City of residence: Fort Worth industry successes and best practices. Why are you the best candidate for this office? Native of Tarrant County: Yes How might those issues change in two years? As a business owner, I have served TRWD as a client City of birth: Fort Worth It is unlikely that the issue of population growth will change and learned the processes, philosophy and culture as well Profession: Business Consultant specializing in Public in the next two years. Tarrant County will continue to as an understanding of the genesis of the organization, Relations expand. However, if the positive message of what TRWD as a result of major floods in 1908, 1922 and of course, the flood of the late 40s which devastated the West Education: does and their impact on our everyday lives is extended to a broader audience, there will be a better appreciation and 7th area. I have a significant understanding about flood I graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School public support for the organization. control management, raw water management and the located in the Stop Six community. I attended Texas water supply sustainability challenges that TRWD faces. Christian University where I changed my interests from If you win election, what are your top three priorities to In addition to my business acumen and knowledge, (ironically), political science to communications and accomplish and why? my colleagues respect and trust me which I believe is received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. I never thought My top three priorities are: extremely important for an ideal candidate for this board that years later politics would show up on my radar. I’ve • Water and Environmental Sustainability - to ensure that position. Last but not least, I am willing to give 100% always had an interest but have not had the interest until plans, policies, and processes meet the needs of all Tarrant participation to fulfill my duties as a board member to now to serve. County citizens for now and for the future. ensure the success of this business known as the Tarrant Regional Water District. Significant recognitions/honors: • Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency - to ensure that Quest for Success Award presented by Dallas Black we all have a knowledge of the scope and significance that Give us an example of past public service of which you Chamber of Commerce TRWD has in all our lives. are proud: Chapter Diversity Award of Honor presented by the • Communication Equity - Ensuring that a broader While serving as an appointee on the City of Fort Worth’s Public Relations Society of America segment of Tarrant County understands who TRWD is W/MBE Committee, I helped to re-write the city’s and that we all have a voice to perpetuate the important ordinance on doing business with minority contractors. Most Influential Honor presented by Fort Worth Black A lot of time and effort was put into the work to improve News work that TRWD does for the greater good. I consider that to be a win-win. the ordinance for the benefit of increasing opportunity for Tribute to African American Men & Women presented minority businesses to compete. I was extremely proud of by Dollars & Sense Magazine If you can accomplish only one priority, what would that the outcome. be and why? Best of the Best Award presented by Texas Association Name someone in politics that your consider a role To ensure that plans, policies and processes meet the of African American Chamber model and tell us why. needs of all Tarrant County citizens for now and for NFL Emerging Business Designation the future. Think showers, cooking, cleaning, drinking, The late Commissioner Dionne Bagsby. She had an Selected as a Fresh New Work in the New York Times steaming, scrubbing, washing, and flushing. I know a lot inspiring story of how she couldn’t raise the money to run Book Review for my book Entrance 7 of us can relate to not having access to water in the wake but she could raise an army in support of her candidacy. She ran against an incumbent, Dick Anderson, who had Have you held elective office before? No of the recent weather conditions that disrupted all our routines. This crisis made all of us aware of how dependent held the office for a number of years and she won. That we are on a healthy infrastructure to deliver something kind of story should give us all hope and encouragement we take for granted – our water. There will always be a to exercise our civic responsibility to serve. In a way, I feel need for improvement in areas of fiscal responsibility, I am standing on her shoulders and most definitely am transparency and equity however, the immediate, daily inspired. need to maintain a healthy water supply takes priority over all the other issues. People are often critical of city and county government. What do you see as failures and successes of the elected body you are seeking to join?