Salado Village Voice put the following questions to the candidates for Mayor. Early voting began on April 23. Election Day is May 5.

QUESTION 1: Do we have adequate police protection? If not, what can be done to improve police protection?  150 words

QUESTION 2: Does Village government help or hinder economic development? Explain how you will address this if elected. 200 words

QUESTION 3: Does the Village adequately address its road infrastructure? Can this be improved? If so, how? 200 words

David Williams

QUESTION 1: For the current size of our Village, low crime rate and limited budget, I would say we have adequate Police protection.  Could it be improved, of course, but that will require more financial resources.   Salado citizens provide approximately $350,000 in direct property taxes to the Village budget each year.  That just about pays for our current Police Department personnel and equipment maintenance.  The remainder of the approximate $1,000,000 municipal budget is paid for by businesses.  To improve on our police capabilities additional financial resources will need to be added.  If Salado Citizen’s desire to increase police capabilities, then they must voice their desires through increasing Property Taxes or increasing our business base.  

QUESTION 2: I believe that our current Village policies generally encourage economic development.  Could they be improved, of course.  Economic development is not static but needs to be constantly changing and adapting to the needs of consumers if we want positive healthy growth.  Salado citizens are encouraged to participate in this planning process, even if it is only to express their positive suggestions.  We have a wealth of knowledge in our citizens and the challenge is to tap those resources.  We have the foundational tools for easier citizen input.  We have a Village website and we need to use it to it’s full potential to inform our citizens and at the same time provide a vehicle for them to provide input via the same website which is maintained using a membership website builder for easy access to this.  Our citizens have very busy lives and it is understandable that committing to attend committee meetings is not practical, but participation via email/web links is a possibility.

QUESTION 3: When our citizens understand how limited our Village budget is, then we are better able to adjust our expectations about our road infrastructure.  Maintaining our current roadways is a costly process and as I mentioned earlier, all that cost is coming from Business’s (Sales tax, Franchise fees, Alcohol tax, other fees) contribution to our budget.  With additional growth from residential and commercial development, this will begin to strain our current infrastructure and improvements and expansion will become necessary. Increased revenue into the Village budget will be needed or we will end up depleting our current Village reserves.  This is not an impossible challenge, and I am confident that the citizens of Salado have unique and viable options to solving this problem.  I want to tap into that pool of knowledge and provide the best options available so our Board of Aldermen can make sound, fact-based decisions.

Linda Reynolds

QUESTION 1: Can you ever have        ENOUGH POLICE PROTECTION? Public health and safety must be the highest priority of ANY municipality – Salado is no different and if elected, we will do better.

If the mayor closely supervises unsafe events in the village, she should be able to advise the BOA in decisions to increase the police presence. 

   A mayor must visit every business after the COPS patrol finds unlocked building doors. The unlocked businesses are an invitation to crime, just as much as unlocked homes and cars.

   Right now, we must have a full police force 24/7, the  COPS program, and county back up when needed.

   If the Sanctuary/Wildfire area becomes low cost housing, the village may have to reevaluate the sense of security we all enjoy now. 

    By June, Wildfire buildings will be gone, and the land can become ANYTHING built by ANYONE for 45 years. And the Village MUST provide sewer and possibly more police protection.

QUESTION 2: Mayor Reynolds believes in progress for this Village!  

   “We all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the person who turns back soonest is the most progressive.”

CS LEWIS

     We got SNOOKERED! Our Village government was taken to the cleaners by a slick AUSTIN Lawyer, and consequently skip, David Williams and Frank Coachman harmed economic development for 45 years.

 In the EDA grant application for $1.5 million federal dollars, the village said that 2,500 jobs will be created within 3 years of the sewer being operational.  We only have 2,300 population!      

   Skip, Dave Williams and Frank Coachman have halted development along West Village rd and the North side of the Village while they neglected their job to get this sewer done!

   We have lost thousands of sales tax dollars while land and houses sit empty along West Village rd. Do you miss the Dairy Queen? Do you miss the Travel Mart  and Burger King/Arby’s? Do you miss The Mansion? Do you miss the Stagecoach coffee shop or public pool? Do you miss easy access to The Chamber office? 

   Question 3:  I start to understand why one bid for sewer lines was 2 million lower than other bids. 

   Once the destruction of Royal street is over, McClean does NOT HAVE TO REPAIR THE ROAD!! Just think what will happen to West Village rd., Thomas Arnold, Church st and Main st!

   How do we pay to repair roads? The current government thinks you need to pay more property tax! In fact, skip, and Frank Coachman just voted to borrow another 2.3 million of the sewer bond! 

   After the election, you may get a rude awakening in your 2019 tax bill! 

   We need more sales tax! We need more village economic development to produce those sales taxes. And we need to keep the monthly sewer bills at a reasonable rate to keep business owners from giving up on Salado. 

  No one has even addressed what will happen to renters of houses and business buildings if monthly sewer bills are astronomical compared to our neighbors. The numbers will be released after the election!

Mayor Reynolds will give full time attention to make Salado Great Again!

Skip Blancett

QUESTION 1: No, however, we have the best Policemen who take their job seriously.  The Village needs 2-additional policemen, better equipment, newer cars, additional training.  We are constantly seeking grants and free money to buy equipment and police cars.  The City budget is tight but progress is being made.

Citizens on Patrol (C.O.P.s), started last year by Larry Nathanson, is a great asset. Citizens train every last Monday of the month with Salado Police. They work 2-days monthly checking doors, cars, and driving the neighborhoods. (Approximately 20-businesses had unlocked doors.)  Crime is down.

Speed bumps are a consideration.  Another is the, Sheriff ’s Department but they are stretched, too. “Ghost cars” or unoccupied police cars parked in well-traveled areas are considered.  Our Constable works closely with the Village.

Our Police are not responsible for the ETJ unless it is a dire emergency.  The Sheriff’s Department has that responsibility.

QUESTION 2: Both.  Economic Development will be embraced but controlled. Quality will not be traded for quick expansion.  Therefore:

(1)Village Ordinances will continue to be updated or written to address QUALITY economic development that meets Citizens’ needs; protects Salado businesses; and compliments our history/culture;

(2)Overlays, like Westside, will be designed and developed to ensure the best possible plan for a healthy community;

(3)Town Halls will be held semi-annually to discuss the latest economic developments.  The format: questions and answers; 

(4)To attract Quality developments, property tax incentives will be considered for those entering city limits.  However, sales tax will not be bargained.   

(5)Salado cannot lose its special qualities that are known State-Wide such as Friendliness, Well-kept neighborhoods, Art and Academic intellect, Fairness, Safety, and Environment.  These qualities are hallowed and will not be manipulated for economic development. There will be Developers who will work with the Village to enhance those qualities that make Salado unique and beautiful.  

(6)Everyone cannot be pleased and economic development cannot be stopped.  The Mayor must have excellent “people skills,” and know the art of negotiation.  The BOA and you will do the rest.

QUESTION 3: This Village has an outstanding Roads Committee, Alderman McDougal, Chair.  For the last two years, road repair was made.  This Spring/Summer more road repaired is SCHEDULED because  this Committee negotiated with Bell County.  The agreement: the Village will pay for the material; the County will furnish the labor and machinery at no cost to the Village.  The savings is over $50,000.  This committee has a 5-year plan to improve all the roads in Salado limits, and they are on schedule.  In addition, this Committee met with TxDoT and James Construction every Tuesday until I-35 Construction was completed.

The BOA hears a report from the Committee or discusses road repair frequently.  They understand that property values are affected by road conditions.  However, this Village operates on a million dollar budget that covers every expense accrued from salaries to bathroom supplies.  Money is tight and limited.

Every road in the Village, not just Mill Creek, needs some kind of repair.  The Pace Park Road is in serious need.  As sales and property tax money increases so will road repair.  Until then, we will stick with our plan and go forward every year.

 

Salado Village Voice put the following questions to the Mayoral and Aldermen candidates. Early voting begins on April 23.

Question 1: There have been preliminary discussions of a landowner giving property to the village that would serve as a small day-time only airport (operated by the municipality). The developer would retain the surrounding property to sell hangars/apartments to owners of small airplanes. All of the property, to include the hangars/apartments, would be annexed into the Village. Is this good or bad for the Village? Why? (200 words)

Question 2: What is your opinion on the future of The Sanctuary development and its impact on the Village? (300 words)

Question 3: What is your opinion on the maintenance, operation and use of Pace Park property? (250 words)

[Read more…] about Mayoral candidates on airport, Sanctuary, Pace Park

Salado Village Voice put the following questions to the Mayoral and Aldermen candidates. Early voting begins on April 23.

QUESTION 1: Do we have adequate police protection? If not, what can be done to improve police protection?  150 words

QUESTION 2: Does Village government help or hinder economic development? Explain how you will address this if elected. 200 words

QUESTION 3: Does the Village adequately address its road infrastructure? Can this be improved? If so, how? 200 words

Judy Fields

QUESTION 1.  Yes, at this time we do have adequate police protection with the emphasis on adequate.  The revitalized COPS (Citizens On Patrol Salado) consisting of volunteers is a vital part of this protection in checking area businesses security after hours.

QUESTION 2:  Presently, the current village government does not have a plan for an effective economic development.  Such a committee was recommended several years ago by Alderman Hans Fields and approved members from the village were in place to begin such development.  However, it still waits for this board to place the needed impetus to jump start this program and begin to successfully attract more businesses to our community.  Working with the city manager and board of aldermen, I will pursue implementing this program immediately.

QUESTION 3:  Salado’s sorry road infrastructure pretty much speaks for itself.

Salado Plaza continues to deteriorate due to inadequate and inferior reconstruction done two-three years ago.  We have depended on Bell County to do what few quality repairs that have been done to maintain a few select roads. We need competent companies that will provide quality resurfacing that will not need constant care such as fixing potholes that continuously need repair.  Again, working with the city manager is a must in order to avoid a councilman making “qualified” decisions on what company to use.

Michael Coggin

QUESTION 1: Our officers have a great reputation and provide recognized support for our village and other law enforcement agencies.  As your alderman, I would support our police department to continue this excellent service.  Our community is seeing a slight increase in incidents that could be a result of the recent growth in our area. If elected, I would be proactive to keep our low crime rate.  I have worked closely with law enforcement at Fort Hood and Fort Sam Houston and can bring that experience to our village.  As our tax base funding increases we can add additional patrol hours, support our Citizens on Patrol (COPS) program and provide the necessary training and certifications to our officers.  As your alderman, I would bring my experience with law enforcement to work with the police department to plan how to address growth and continue to keep our community safe and secure. 

QUESTION 2: Our Village has a goal of “Ensure that economic development opportunities are pursued in order to provide the Village with a solid fiscal outlook as future growth and development occurs” as established in principle 8 of the Village of Salado Texas Comprehensive Plan dated 2004.  Our Village plan correctly remarks that our economic development is inherently tied to tourism.  I will work to update the comprehensive plan to re-energize our tourism.  If elected your alderman, I will ensure our Village of Salado has a stronger economic development program.  We are in a great position to bring in additional small businesses to fuel our tourism economy by having direct access from the interstate, great businesses and additional capacity on the sewage system.  We can also work harder to better our strong partnership with the Salado Chamber of Commerce.  The key to healthy economic development is a master plan that provides control in our growth and ensure our village maintains our Salado heritage.  If elected, I will use my 30+ years of experience in community planning, engineering, design and construction management to update our Comprehensive Plan and enhance our economic development.

QUESTION 3: Our village has in the past few years completed road improvements such as the overlay on Salado Plaza Road (behind the Ace Hardware store).   These improvements were definitely needed and more improvements will be required on our other roads.  If elected, I will bring my 30+ years of engineering and construction experience to the Board of Aldermen.  I managed the construction of several road projects at many locations in Texas.  I designed and managed the Fort Hood Main Gate sign project seen on many news outlets (when you see this sign on the news, remember to vote for me!)  I hope to use this experience to create an annual road work plan resulting in the best use of our tax dollars to improve our roads.   I can use my engineering experience in road construction and cost estimating to ensure our village receives the best price and construction quality.  If elected, I can also bring my traffic control experience to assist with any growth – we will need to plan traffic patterns, road widths, curbs and guttering, traffic control signage and vehicle weight control.  If elected, I will prefer NOT to have traffic signal lights in the Salado city limits.

Frank Coachman

QUESTION 1:  I believe, given the budget afforded to the Village, with we are providing the best possible police protection we can afford. The response times to critical calls averages less than 3 minutes and non-critical calls less than 6 minutes. I am confident in the abilities of our officers in providing better than adequate protection. As the Village budget funds increase with time, I am certain due diligence will be given to continue to provide quality police services.

QUESTION 2: I believe the Village has been giving due-diligence to assisting economic development and is poising to provide better services with by updating and improving the Village of Salado Comprehensive Plan and a better Overlay District for the development along I-35, future growth on Main Street, and the entire Historic District. The insight of the citizens and the Village government in providing the waste water system will enhance and expedite economic growth for existing and future businesses. The Village is supportive of the Salado Chamber of Commerce and operates the Salado Tourism Bureau. The Board of Alderman and the Village Administrator encourage the two agencies to interact in creating and promoting events which will bring overnight tourists to Salado. This activity will enhance commerce which will increase revenue streams in both sales tax and hotel occupancy tax.

QUESTION 3: Much like the police protection issue, the Village in constrained in the allocation of funds designated to road maintenance. Under the leadership of Alderman McDougal, the Transportation Committee has done an excellent job partnering with Bell County to leverage the maximum quantity of road surface and the quality of work the Village can provide each year. We are a little over halfway through a five-year plan that was developed by the Transportation Committee and the BOA to address the roads most in need of attention. The plan is reviewed each year and priorities are changed as needed. The relationship with Bell County in providing labor at no charge to Salado has allowed the Village to purchase more materials and address much more surface area. There are roads that need attention today, but I am sure the prioritization process will work in addressing the need.

Chad Martin

QUESTION 1: I believe we have adequate protection, however I do not feel we have adequate and equal application of the numerous laws.  I feel a number of the laws are out dated, or overreach the American protection of our right to pursue happiness.  If police make a choice as to what laws they will or will not enforce at a given time, then what is the point of having the law on the books?

QUESTION 2: The Village government is currently hindering economic growth because it is unable to promote itself and promote the businesses it is supposed to protect, nor does the Village have a current comprehensive business plan.  The Village website also needs a massive overhaul.  The government must over inform its population and over inform those whom we would like to attract to Salado.  It is hard for the government to promote commerce if it cannot promote itself, nor have a current detailed plan to follow.

QUESTION 3: The government should have a detailed plan posted on its website showing the actual approved and signed contracts, which includes benchmarks for construction.  Salado’s population deserves to have an easy to navigate website showing information such as road, benchmarks, and proposed completion dates.  The population deserves to know if the benchmarks are not being met, and what is causing the delays. 

Becky Butscher

QUESTION 1.  I feel we have adequate and successful police protection,  I feel our police department goes above and beyond to help in any way possible.

The best thing we can do is inspire these officers to stay here.   In the near future we will loose good employees if they are not paid well for a job well done.  

QUESTION 2:  As mentioned in previous answers, I think that it is important to insure the right kind of growth for our Village.  I am pro development and growth for the  Village but I want to make sure that we enact and enforce restrictions to take our Village in the  right direction.  Remember we have a valuable historical district.

We need to  be sure that we can make it easier for our small local businesses to survive.

QUESTION 3: I would  like to see some additional  road maintenance.  I’m sure we have a long term plan in place for the Village and I think we need to put some attention to it.

Without a strong plan our Village  might see things deteriorate.  Our roads are one of  our communities major assets and it  might be a good idea to have a roadway professional assess the conditions in order to help us maintain this important asset. 

Salado Village Voice put the following questions to the Mayoral and Aldermen candidates. Early voting begins on April 23.

Question #1: The projected initial demand on the sewer system is 341 Living Unit Equivalents (LUE) for a daily demand of 83,545 gallons per day, or about 40% percent of the total 200,000 gallon per day capacity. In its ninth year, it is projected to increase to 432 LUE and 105,840 GPD. Should the Village be considered with attracting more users to spread the costs of the sewer to a wider base and share the burden? If so, what steps can the Village take to do that? (250 words)

Question 2. There are several residential subdivisions being platted and built in the Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of Salado. Should the Village try to attract them into annexing voluntarily into the city limits? If so, how? If not, why not (250 words)

Question 3. In terms of growth for the Village, do you want more residential rooftops, more businesses, both or neither? Why or why not? (150 words) 

 

Judy Fields

Question #1: Until the sewer is actually up and running, any projections to “spread the costs” cannot be realistically projected at this time.  These questions/situations should have been considered at the time of the original proposal of the bond issue.

Question #2: Having spoken with several residents of our ETJs, they are adamant that being annexed into the village offers no benefits for them.  Sewers are not presently in the equation for village home owners not living on Main Street and neither are plans for ETJ’s.  Currently not paying village taxes, ETJ residents are still allowed to serve on all committees and boards such as the Planning and Zoning and Tourism Boards being appointed by the Board of Aldermen, making recommendations that impact not them but the current tax-paying village residents.   America was founded on principals of “taxation without representation”.   Our ETJ’s enjoy “representation without taxation”.

Question #3: Currently, there are several empty residential and commercial lots available for construction in the village.  Not to grow is to inhibit progress but consideration for our historical heritage must always be a mandatory requirement for maintaining the ambiance on which we currently pride ourselves.

Michael Coggin

Question #1: The Salado Village taxpayers are paying to buy a sewage plant that will have a 200,000 gallon per day capacity which gives us extra capacity – this extra capacity belongs to the Salado Village taxpayers.  If elected, I will be voting to protect the Salado Village taxpayer interests and our extra capacity.  First, we must make sure that our estimates are reasonable and we do have extra capacity.   Second, if we are sure that we have extra capacity available, I will look internally for Salado Village customers that can use and pay for using the extra capacity.   This can be new or existing businesses and new or existing residential areas.  Some areas are close to the sewage system that could easily be added to our sewage system and be a great addition to our sewage treatment system. These Salado village customers will be responsible for any additional service costs such as additional construction costs, design costs, sewage lines, lift stations and connection points.  And last, if we are sure that we have available capacity then we can entertain proposals from outside entities to sell our extra capacity with the main focus of ensuring the village taxpayer is not funding any outside interests. 

I will vote to protect the Salado village taxpayer interests in all planning and actions regarding the sewage treatment system.

Question #2: The Village of Salado must be aware of the impact that these subdivisions will have to our community. I will use my master planning and engineering management experience to position the Village of Salado to minimize the problems created by the growth in these areas.  The subdivisions will increase traffic and create other challenges – our village must plan how to address these conditions.  I managed the traffic control planning on Fort Hood for several years and now plan to use my traffic control experience to prevent village traffic concerns.  Well planned and constructed neighborhoods that fit into our Salado Village heritage can be beneficial to our village.  I will not vote to use village taxpayer funding to attract the residential subdivisions to annex into our village.  I will consider a voluntary annexation proposal by any citizen as provided by our Village of Salado municipal procedures.  I will consider all annexations proposals fairly. My decision to accept the voluntary annexation will be based on how the annexation will effect our village citizens. I will not vote for annexation if the area does not fit into our Salado culture.   I will not vote to approve the annexation if it is not fair to our village citizens and does not bring value to the village.

Question #3: If elected, my priority will be to position our village to maintain our current small-town charm. Our tourist visitation is critical for our village economy.   We must keep this tourist industry strong and robust to minimize costs to our village taxpayer – it is the life blood of our community.  A strong community master planning and zoning process is critical to maintain our village heritage.  I intend to use my extensive engineering experience and community planning experience to fairly regulate our growth.   I would work to provide an enforced sound master planning and zoning process that can have controlled growth.  Business and residential growth would then fit into our Salado Village character and provide additional charm for our village.  

Frank Coachman

 

Question  #1:  Plans are already in the works to expand the system to the north on the East side of I35, and to the north and west of I35.  There is also an interest by several parties in adding an extension out Royal from the existing lines. These expansions would be at a developer’s or land owner’s expense. This will add a significant number of LUEs to the system. It is important to note that at the time the treatment plant reaches 75% capacity, there must be a plan to address the need for more capacity developed and put in place.

Question #2: Many developers feel it is an advantage to their sales if their development remains outside the Village limits. That might be a good point in selling a property, but a residential development outside the Village limits does not have the same zoning protections and traffic controls as properties within the Village. In the ETJ, it is possible for a large commercial development to be placed next door to a residential area. The Village has limited authority in controlling the type of development in the ETJ. Bringing a residential development into the Village limits will allow the Village to zone the property, control traffic safety, and other measures, all of which will maintain or improve property values. There is more benefit to being in the Village limits than remaining out of the Village limits.

  Question #3: Salado needs to expand and add additional roof tops and commercial businesses. If expansion does not occur, the Village will always be limited in its ability to provide general services to the community such as road maintenance, street lights, safety services, and park maintenance. It is necessary to bring both residential and commercial growth to the Village. If only residential is added, the burden to pay for services will fall higher on the residential taxes. If residential and commercial growth are attracted, the tax burden is shared by both and a balance can be maintained. There are incentives in place to attract both types of developments to Salado. These incentive plans will be on future agendas for discussion and possible action.

Chad Martin

Question #1: Growth is inevitable, therefore yes, the city must attract more users, therefore ensuring water is flowing, and pushing debris through the pipes.  The city needs to provide incentives to attract new subdivisions to attach to the sewer system.  I most cases people want protection and safety from the city.  The city may need to reevaluate the square footage restrictions on housing, and promote the creation of more affordable housing for workers of the local businesses. 

Question #2: As stated above, yes, the city will grow, and must grow to create more revenue, thereby enabling Salado to provide more services to its constituents.  The city will need to approach the leaderships of each subdivision and create a constructive dialogue on absorption.  We need to know what the surrounding areas need, and in most cases the need is simple; protection and safety.

Question #3:  The answer will always be both.  The city needs to help businesses grow and thrive.  Business is what attracts people to Salado.  The town has an artistic niche which the city must promote.  The artisans are the ones bringing tourists to town, however they cannot survive without labor, and that labor needs affordable housing.  In speaking to many business owners, their employees travel to Salado because they cannot afford to live in town.  I believe the housing square footage regulation needs to be re-examined. 

Becky Butscher

Question #1: I feel the Village should take every step possible to expand the number of customers using wastewater plant.  We need to keep in mind that this facility is not a one time expenditure. Every year there will be operating costs (utilities, staff and chemicals).   There will also be future needs such as equipment repairs.   The real value of our facility will be having as many customers as possible.  By expanding our customer base for this facility the better it will be for all of our residents.  When it comes to trying to attract new users, the availability of wastewater service is hopefully all the incentive we will need.  The opportunity to get away from owning and maintaining septic system is a plus.     In my opinion the best thing we can do is to be ready to service as many customers as possible as they begin to look at Salado. 

Question #2: I think there is a feeling that growth in our Village will cause the loss of the charm of our Village. This does not have to be the case.     I think one way to attract voluntary annexation is to provide the best possible municipal services to our residents.   If newcomers or developers see good Village services they will want to be part of our community.  We continue to need strong police presence, a reliable sewer service, and healthy economy.  If we focus on the mission to make the Village of Salado the best it can be, developments within our ETJ will want to join our Village.

Question #3: I am in favor of growth but not just for growth’s sake.  We are a smart wonderful, historical Village.  We have so many talented residents.  Just look at our art and culture. I believe that our Village has to continue to grow in order to sustained.     I will only promote growth that is positive for our Village. We must have good Village governance and good annexation policies.  Now is the time that me must look at establishing them.   If we do our job, growth will be a path to a bright future.   We have a Village that can use more rooftops and more businesses.

Village of Salado voters will choose a Mayor from a field of three candidates. 

Follows are brief introductions of each of the candidates, in their own words. Next week, begins a series of questions and answers with the candidates.

[Read more…] about Three candidates file for Village Mayor

Village of Salado voters will choose two aldermen from a field of five candidates.

Follows are brief introductions of each of the candidates, in their own words. Next week, begins a series of questions and answers with the candidates.

[Read more…] about Five candidates file for 2 aldermen spots