Since I’m not up for re-election this year, I thought it would be helpful to hear critical questions I think voters should ask candidates.  Why do I care about who gets elected?  There is serious unhappiness with government.  Our country is scarily polarized – perhaps as much emotionally as factually.  We are worried about the disconnect between government actions and responsibility and feel unsure about what to do.  The knee-jerk reaction is to kick-out all of the @#$% incumbents.   Unfortunately, in this ugly political climate, I’ve watched many good public servants opting not to run again.   That’s scary, too.  Quite frankly, even at the local level, many of our public institutions and issues have become so large and complex that it is extremely difficult for a single officeholder to make any good, substantial changes on their own.  But some changes do need to be made.  How do we get there?

It is important to elect or re-elect individuals who have the knowledge and a passion for truly tackling issues and who are willing to work with others to get worthwhile results. I want voters to vote for those who understand our issues and demonstrate a willingness to work with others – regardless of party lines.
 
Given the serious needs in our country and state, I believe that open-mindedness, personal values, respect for other’s opinions, honesty about the job and being a good team player are perhaps most important.   Be cautious of those who promise too much.   Look for “how” the candidate is going to tackle an issue, not just “what” s/he is going to tackle.  It is important to move beyond charisma and great oratory.  Rather, be “wowed” by those who have demonstrated success in getting things accomplished.  

Since “they” say “all politics is local,” here are some Travis County-related questions for every candidate, including State level and Congressional candidates:

Issue:  As Texas continues to grow, we are facing a serious threat to our water availability and quality.  Our system of water management in Texas is fragmented and thus does not work well.   Question:  What needs to happen to ensure we have quality water resources for the future and what will you do to make that happen?

Issue:  In many states, growth is required to pay for itself.  Not so in Texas!  Urban growth in unincorporated Texas, if grouped together, would be ranked as the 5th largest city in the US.  Since Texas counties lack the land-use authority that municipalities have, all county taxpayers are paying for growth, like roads and transit capacity, as the population increases.  Question:  How do you make growth in Texas pay for itself and what actions would you take to make that happen?

Issue:  The effectiveness of our state and local government often depends on the decisions of those serving on governing boards and commissions.   Senior-level elected officials make these appointments (governor, county judges/commissioners, mayors/city council members, etc.).  Decisions by these boards and commissions, such as TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality), LCRA (Lower Colorado River Authority), university regents, etc., can have a direct impact on our taxes, water quality and supply, education, economic well-being, etc.  On the state level, cronyism seems rampant with many of these appointments.  With the high cost to run campaigns, special interest groups and wealthy individuals can carry significant influence with elected officials on appointments.  Question:   What appointments does your office make, and what criteria would you use in your appointment process?  For those seeking re-election, ask other folks who might know about the incumbent’s appointments. 

I hope you find these thoughts and questions helpful.  Be sure to vote.  Your vote is very, very important.