Salado Mayoral Candidates 2014

Four candidates have filed for Mayor of Salado. They appear on the ballot in the following manner: Danney McCort, Hans Fields, Skip Blancett and Rick Ashe. Following are their responses to questions that have been posed by the Salado Village Voice Newspaper.

Early voting began April 28 and continues through May 6. Early voting will be 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays through May 5 and 7 a.m.-7 p.m. May 6 at the Salado Civic Center. Election day, the polls will be open at the Salado Civic Center 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on May 10. There is no run-off election for Mayor. The candidate with the most votes wins.

Questions Posed in Week One

Question 1: The village entered into a contract with Central Texas Council of Governments (CTCOG) to provide city management/administrative duties. In your opinion, is this arrangement working well? Should the village extend this contract beyond the current period ending in October? Why or why not? (200 word limit)

Question 2: Texas Department of Transportation estimates that the expansion of I-35 through Salado will be complete in late 2015. What, if anything, can or should the Village be doing to prepare for this? What, if anything, can or should the Village be doing now to bolster businesses that have been affected by the construction project? (150 words)

Question 3: What is — or should be — the role of the mayor in terms of setting goals and policies and enacting the goals and policies of the Village? What is — or should be — the relationship between the Mayor and other aldermen and between the mayor and the city administrator and other staff? What will you do in terms of these relations? (200 words)

Week Two Questions:

Question 4. What are your thoughts on the Village Comprehensive Plan? (200 words)

Question 5. What are your top five goals for the Village that you would like to see accomplished in the next five years? How would you help to accomplish those goals? (200 words)

Question 6: Why do you think development within the Village and its ETJ has been slow in recent years in terms of new housing starts, new businesses, etc.? Do you think the Village should be growing? If not, why not? If so, what, if anything, can the Board of Aldermen do to improve this (200 words)

Week Three Questions (May 1 edition)

Question 7: What are your thoughts on the conditions of the village roads? (200 word limit)

Question 8: What are your thoughts on the maintenance and operations of the village park? (150 word limit)

Question 9: Will you as Mayor work with the Aldermen to bring to the voters a bond election for sewer? If called by the board, will you personally advocate for approval of a bond election for a sewer system? (300 words)

Final Week

Question 10: What do you consider to be the greatest weakness or flaw in the Village of Salado government and what can you do to change it? (200 words)

Question 11: Why should anyone vote for you? (200 words)

Danney McCort

My Experience:

Current Mayor of Salado for the past 2 years; Department of Veterans Affairs 32 years, Staff & Senior Engineer, Project Engineer, Contracting Officer responsible for 185 million dollar budget.; Assistant and Chief Engineer, Oklahoma City VA Medical Center, overseeing a budget of $64 million; Engineers Advisor Board, Engineering Management Computer System Washington D C. I was appointed by the Undersecretary for Facilities Management, Department of Veterans Affairs D.C.; Salado Board of Adjustments, Planning & Zoning Board, and Aldermen; Viet Nam War Veteran, Service in US Navy and service-connected veteran; Elder, past treasurer Presbyterian Church Salado, Help start the Church and over see the construction and renovation of the existing church; Voting member Executive Board at Central Texas Council of Government; Member Killeen-Temple Metropolitan Planning Organization Planner Roundtable; inaugural class of Leadership Salado.

I have worked with these Federal and State Agents for improving Salado: Federal Emergency Management on getting Letters of Mapping Approvals, Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Texas Park, Fish and Wildlife, Texas Commission Environmental of Quality Agency regarding the sewer system and Kasberg Patrick & Associates Engineering.

Education: Graduate Amarillo College and West Texas A & M University, BS Engineering

Contracting Officer, Department of Veterans Affairs Engineering Center

Emergency Management Institute courses that are required by law.

Civic Affiliations

Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year 2012.

Lions Club, past President Salado Rotary Club, Historical Society,

Community Service Supervisory for two Judges, Judge Eades and Engleking

Why I am Running For Re-Election as Mayor: I want to finish the projects I started, such as the sewer system for downtown and west side, renovation to street and lighting to attract more visitors to Salado.

• Completing the Emergency Operation Plan so to achieve a grant for a storm siren system for Salado. One at each end of town.

• Working with TXDOT & James Construction to complete of I-35 Construction.

• Bringing more properties the Village of Salado City Limits through annexation.

• Working on instituting more communication between City Government and Citizens of Salado.

• Working on keeping the Village financially solvent during these down times in the economy and highway construction.

• Bringing the Village and Board of Aldermen together with the help of Jim Reed our City Administrator. I assure the Mayor and Board of Aldermen are truly working together to achieve this goal.

• Re-Assessing and updating Salado’s Economic Development Plan for 2014 and beyond.

Danney McCort Answer:(a) The City Administrator arrangement has worked exceedingly well. Mr. Reed’s expertise in governmental procedures in the local, regional, state and national arenas has been invaluable in advancing many projects for the Village. (b) Without a doubt the contract should be extended through at least the November elections with the probability of the Sewer System Bond issue on the ballot. Mr. Reed’s experience will be needed to formulate all the intricacies needed to guide the Bond issue from start to finish.

Danney McCort Answer: (a) The Village administration (in conjunction with TXDOT and James) should be continuously updating the citizens on the progress. This will be an ongoing psychological “Yes, there IS a pot of gold at the end of the construction rainbow” effect. (b) Do everything in our power to make sure the Village administration goes to great lengths to be a “Business Friendly” entity. Bend over backwards to address all concerns of local business and make their day-to-day operations as profitable and as possible.

Danney McCort Answer: (a) The role of the mayor is like that of a ship’s captain and navigator. As navigator he plots the course for goals and policies. As captain he executes those courses and sees them through to fruition (b) Using the same analogy, the mayor (captain) can only accomplish the above with the assistance of a competent “crew”. The Aldermen, Administrator and staff are all individually, and collectively vital to maintaining the goals and policies of Salado. (c) I will continually strive to be a better “captain” with an open mind and open ears to the wisdom and input of the Aldermen, Administrator and staff.

Question 4. What are your thoughts on the Village Comprehensive Plan? (200 words)

Danney McCort Answer: The Village Comprehensive Plan was approved in 2002 and reviewed again in 2007. The Plan needs updating since the expansion of I-35 has been occurring and developers have expressed an interest in west side development. Many of the businesses people I have visited with say a sewer system is crucial, not only for downtown revitalization but for Westside expansion. I want the Village to be continually working with the Chamber of Commerce to make the update Comprehensive Plan more effective in the future.The updated Plan also needs to readdress items address items such as the infrastructure of roads, water, sidewalks and flood control. The Board of Aldermen and City Administrator, with input from the Chamber, Tourism and citizens, should work collectively on the update plan. If the land exchange with Belton does occur the Village will be taking in more undeveloped land. This will need to be addressed in the updated Plan.Finally, we should consider adding a comprehensive list of various incentives designed to encourage more businesses to locate in the Village city limits and ETJ.

Question 5. What are your top five goals for the Village that you would like to see accomplished in the next five years? How would you help to accomplish those goals? (200 words)3. Why do you think development within the Village and its ETJ has been slow in recent years in terms of new housing starts, new businesses, etc.? Do you think the Village should be growing? If not, why not? If so, what, if anything, can the Board of Aldermen do to improve this?(200 words)

Danney McCort Answer: 1) To complete the process for obtaining a bond election for a sewer system (for downtown and the west side) and for major road repair. This is the only way we will be able to acquire home builders and businesses to Salado.2) Work on obtaining grants for Revitalizing Main Street with sidewalks, street lights, historical signage, and safe path to schools. 3) Strive to bring more businesses and home developments into the area, especially to the west side, utilizing the overlay design.4) Complete a land exchange with Belton giving them land north of Amity road in exchange for land south of Amity. If the Village can achieve this goal, annexation of other areas will be easier for achieve.5) Continue revising ordinances with a fair balance of requirements to make them more business friendly to developers while at the same time maintaining the uniqueness of Salado.6) Work toward achieving a full time Village Administrator. The Village needs to maintain Jim Reed as long as possible and especially through the bond election of the sewer system.

Question 6. Why do you think development within the Village and its ETJ has been slow in recent years in terms of new housing starts, new businesses, etc.? Do you think the Village should be growing? If not, why not? If so, what, if anything, can the Board of Aldermen do to improve this?(200 words)

Danney McCort Answer: Development has been slow in the Village and its ETJ partly due to the downturn in the economy coupled with the disruption caused by I-35 expansion. Another factor is land prices are relatively higher in the Salado area. In addition, without a city-wide sewer system more land is required for development. For example, Cefco who is building on the west side had to purchase two additional acres for a septic system. A new home requires half an acre or more for a septic system. All this adds to higher costs for construction. A few developers state we have many restrictions in our ordinances. Recently the Board of Aldermen has been reviewing these ordinances but we still want to maintain the uniqueness of the village.Yes, the village should be growing and we hope to see more of this after I 35 is completed. The west side is especially prime for development. I have heard that many of the residents want to see more restaurants. I have also listened to the younger generation wanting businesses like a movie theater and other recreational/entertainment venues.

It is simple, working together with the Village Administrator and with a POSITIVE attitude much can be obtained.

Question 7: What are your thoughts on the conditions of the village roads? (200 word limit)

Danney McCort Answer: Many of our roads are in need of repair. This is an ongoing process.Our Village Plan categorized our roads and streets as to importance. All roads were also appraised based on the accepted standard used by the industry, “pavement serviceability rating” (PSR), which uses factors such as longitudinal and transverse cracking, edge raveling and other condition characteristics.Local roads and residential streets can be maintained by lower cost surface treatment such as chip seal and crack sealing. In this way we can allocate funds in accordance with traffic and importance of streets to bring all our streets up to a high level of serviceability and use our limited financial resources efficiently resulting in a higher quality system. Roads in our highest classification can be built to our design standard based on their importance.We collect five cents of every dollar from Ad Valorem tax to make road repairs. In our last budget, a one hundred fifty thousand dollar increase was still not enough. The cost of road repairs is going up for several reasons such as the increased cost of petroleum based products and inflation.I want to do more, including the highly cost efficient use of incarcerated labor from the County jail work release program on Saturdays.

Question 8: What are your thoughts on the maintenance and operations of the village park? (150 word limit)

Danney McCort Answer: The only maintenance the Village currently does is Pace Park. I think it is maintained quite well given we have only one maintenance person. The park is rented out most weekends which helps bring in revenue. I want the Village be as accommodating as possible toward groups wanting to rent it.I want to apply for funds from Texas Parks, Fish and Wildlife (TPFW) for such things as trees and different grasses for land conservation. TPFW conducted a meeting relative to Salado Creek stressing the importance of protecting the aquatic and land vegetation in the habitat of the Salado Salamander. Funding is available under this provision.The Village will need to renovate the existing dressing structure. The Pace Park pavilion is also in need of repairs in the near future. I would recommend we acquire the Sherrill Park area and add park facilities including play ground equipment. There will be other park like areas along the Salado Creek that will become available to add to the Village park facilities.

Danney McCort Answer: As mayor, I will not only work vigorously with the Aldermen, but also with the City Administrator Reed to bring a comprehensive and well planned bond package for a new sewer system to the voters of Salado.

Both Mr. Reed and I have extensive experience in bond preparation and execution. My plan is to educate the citizens of Salado in all aspects of the bond during the weeks and months leading up to the election. An informed voter is an empowered voter…informed with the facts, not hearsay and rumors.

Jim Reed and I will be coming to the Board of Aldermen asking for the dollars the start the process at the upcoming meeting. The Board assigned this task to be undertaken. Engineering is first step needed and this entails a design as to the size of plant, plant location and line flow.

Working with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). We know the permitting will take approximately two to three years for approval. There will have be a number public hearings conducted. The size of the plant will also determine the type of licensing needed.

Work with a Securities Industry & Financial Association approved company for the sale of bonds.

I have been advocating that a sewer system is a must for Salado. Citizens need to realize that our existing septic system is a major contributing factor for polluting our precious ground water.

As mayor, I will, without hesitation, be the lead advocate for approval of the bond election for the new sewer system. There is going to be a great deal of “sales effort” needed to bring a win for the bond on the ballot. It is my intention to be the Head Salesman for the new sewer system bond package.

Question 10: What do you consider to be the greatest weakness or flaw in the Village of Salado government and what can you do to change it? (200 words)

Danney McCort Answer: The greatest weakness in the Village of Salado’s government has been its slow pace in addressing the major problems and potential solutions affecting the Village. Forces of nature and man have taken a toll on our once vital and vibrant community. The era of “Kicking The Can Down The Road” needs to be over. As Mayor I have, and will continue to increase my hard pressed efforts to create solutions for infrastructure improvements, growth on the west side and an even more aggressive outreach to new businesses and residential entities.

It is said the wheels of government turn slow. For the future of Salado, and more so for it’s very survival, our government’s wheels need to be put in high gear.I feel the village must grow to achieve all its goals to do this we must address the annexation issue. This will allow us to serve the surrounding areas that are in fact part of Salado and increase our constituency and ability to provide services.

Question 11: Why should anyone vote for you? (200 words)

Danney McCort Answer: I am, and have been a Full-Time mayor. This position has not been that of a “figurehead’ but rather an 8 to 5 (and beyond) real job. I don’t work in Temple or Killeen. I don’t devote my efforts to a few specific committees. I live and work in Salado for all the citizens of the Village. Being Salado’s mayor has been the hardest working, non-paid job I have ever had. And I have loved it! I’m asking for another term not for the glory of being the “Mayor”, but for the humble honor of being able to serve the citizens of Salado with energy, enthusiasm and a forward-looking vision of what we can accomplish together.

Hans Fields

My experience

Village of Salado Experienced Alderman for the past 3 years. I am a Conservative Republican in my politics. Attended the inaugural class of Leadership Salado.

More about my work/life experience:

BA degree in Education; Masters Degree with majors in Biology, Mathematics and Chemistry; Coached and taught school for 18 years; Chairman of the Science department; Head Basketball Coach; Chevron Refining and Chevron/Phillips Chemical Company for 28 years; Senior Safety Engineer for 18 years; 2 years in Saudi Arabia and 2 years in Qatar as Project Safety Manager having responsibility for 3,500 contract employees of 11 nationalities speaking four different languages. Responsible for a $3.5 million budget for the projects.

My Philosophy: The truth and nothing but. I do not lie. What you hear from me may not be what you want to hear, but it is the truth as I know it.

My life in the Village as active participant, Full-Time Resident: Having retired to Salado over seven years ago, I know life in Salado, and I actively participate in the community. Member of the Salado United Methodist Church President of the Salado Historical Society President of the Mill Creek Community Association First Vice President of the Salado Lions Club Serve on the board of the College Hill Foundation Member of the CTAM and the Salado Chamber of Commerce Member of Salado Volunteers Provide tours at Robertson Plantation Occasionally drive the tourism Salado Trolley.

I believe in the people of this Village and, if elected, my number one goal will be to organize quarterly public forums to listen to the people of Salado and to give them an opportunity to express their concerns. I will continue to be “the people’s voice,” not just listening, but directing the Village Government to address concerns. I stand on my record as an alderman. I have listened and actively sought out public opinion on the issues of roads, sewer system, low cost housing and voted as the people who contacted me express their concerns. I believe that our Village Government is large enough without further expansion and I do not support the Village becoming a “Type A” government just to support a big tax increase.

Hans Fields Answer: In my opinion this arrangement is not working well. I am in favor of a village administrator but currently our administrator is rarely available. I feel that for approximately the same salary we are currently paying we could have a full time administrator. At present the BOA receives the administrator reports on the evening of the BOA meetings. That allows little time for research of the reports and several times the board is expected to vote on issues that are presented only a few minutes before the meeting. I proposed at the last extension that we extend for 6 months and during that period we accept applications for a full time administrator. The Board defeated the motion.

Hans Fields Answer: It is my opinion that the Village government should be diligently working to develop the West side of I35. The Village should be offering tax breaks and other incentives to bring in West side business. If the citizens pass the Sewer Bond I believe that the system should incorporate both sides of I35. The Board will, at the next BOA meeting, be voting on an overlay district ordinance for the west side. I feel we need to be very careful in what that ordinance requires new business to do so that owners are not frightened off. Salado is a destination and people come here regardless of the construction. The Village has provided money for advertising and Tourism is doing a great job of putting heads in beds. One problem we have is that many businesses are not open on Sunday and the streets are rolled up at 4 p.m. most days.

Hans Fields Answer: The Mayor serves the people and The Village administrator serves the board. Presently the people are left out and are not heard or listened to. The Board of Aldermen was elected by the people to represent them and the goals to be set should be set by the people through the Aldermen, not just the Mayor and the administrator. The policies of the Village are set by the Ordinances of the Village. These should not be changed just to further desires of the Mayor or Aldermen. The people who live within our City Limits should have a say in what the Village is and what it is to become and how their tax dollars are to be spent. The relationship between the Mayor and the other Aldermen must be one of mutual respect. We must agree to disagree on certain issues while still respecting each other. In my opinion, currently, our city administrator is more the Mayor than our presently elected Mayor. If elected I will assign specific duties to the board members which they will handle and report on. I will take over responsibility for staff and expect staff to perform their job functions with the expertise that they were hired for.

Question 4. What are your thoughts on the Village Comprehensive Plan? (200 words)

Hans Fields Answer: The current Comprehensive Plan was written in 2004. Several parts of the plan are out of date, primarily due to being ignored and unused by the BOA and the Planning and Zoning Board. In fact, I would question if they are familiar with the plan. The plan consists of 8 Guiding Principles for the development of the Village. These need to be reviewed and if necessary up-dated. The Mayor several months ago was to select a new Comprehensive Plan Team; As an Alderman, I have not seen any results presented by this team. The plan remains as it was written in 2004 and unused.

Question 5. What are your top five goals for the Village that you would like to see accomplished in the next five years? How would you help to accomplish those goals? (200 words)

Hans Fields Answer: 1. Get the Sewer issue resolved. We are going to be asked to spend thousands taxpayer dollars on another sewer study. This will be the fourth study since I was elected in 2011. We have no land on which to build this system and the BOA has not yet decided where it will run.2. Fix the roads! The roads are in bad repair and we are paving Natasha and fixing a culvert on a little- traveled road. This is poor use of limited funds. 3. Write an ordinance that addresses the following issues and enforce it. Empty lots and homes that are not being taken care of, the number of cars at a home, trailers and boats in driveways, RV’s parked in drives and yards, trash and trash receptacles lining curbs and roadways. Where has community pride gone? 4. Listen to the citizens. The board’s support for the low income housing project. The majority of the citizens do not want it but the Mayor and the BOA think they know best. Have public forums and support the majority of the people.5. Review all ordinances. Make necessary changes, write new ones where needed. Enforce them equally and quit handing out variances.

Hans Fields Answer: Development in the Village and ETJ has been slowed mainly due to the economy. The economy has deterred housing growth nationwide and lack of a sewer system has deterred growth of businesses. Citizens will determine the Village’s growth or non-growth by addressing the November bond issue. Growth in the Village is very limited by available land on which to build. However, the ETJ seems to be healthy. There are 15 new houses on Amity and 54 unit project in ETJ. Another project is expanding. Housing inventories are down for this time of year — more people are moving in than moving out. The Village has a 380 Economic Development Team in place to help the Village grow but, unfortunately, they are not being used or even consulted on new growth. Personally, I moved here for the small Village atmosphere, the beauty, the history, low taxes and the friendly, helpful people. I am willing to rely on their judgment as to size and growth of the Village. If I wanted a bigger city atmosphere, I would have chosen Belton or Temple or Waco or Austin. I believe that the BOA is doing what the Village BOA wants not, in many cases, what the citizen’s want.

Question 7: What are your thoughts on the conditions of the village roads? (200 word limit)

Hans Fields Answer: Anyone who drives in the Village has to admit that there are numerous roads and areas that need to be repaired. The BOA in the past 3 years has done little to change the road conditions. Paving Natasha was a big error on the part of the Village Administration. There are approximately 5 cents of the ad-valorem tax earmarked for the road repairs. That allows about two-tenths of a mile of road work per year. With nearly 50 miles of roads in the Village limits, DO THE MATH. If the Village ever intends to fix roads, it cannot be accomplished with the current ad-valorem rate and sales tax income. Theatres may have to wait. Do we really want a Starbucks? We have Stagecoach Coffee Shop, McCain’s, and Patio Restaurant, Shed, Pizza Place, etc. Support what we have! People should use the two beautiful parks we already have-Pace park and Sherrill Park.

Question 8: What are your thoughts on the maintenance and operations of the village park? (150 word limit)

Hans Fields Answer: Currently we have two very nice parks in the Village. One is “Pace Park” which is maintained by the Village. There is a children’s playground. There is a very nice well kept Pavilion in which to hold picnics, reunions, weddings, receptions and etc. Village maintenance takes care of this park. We also have “Sherrill Park” which is maintained by the Village Volunteers. Take a drive and take a look. It is well-kept and beautiful. If people would look around our Village they would see we have parks they just aren’t being used. “This is a case of the grass is always greener.”

Hans Fields Answer: Yes. I have pushed for three years to try and get this issue before the people of Salado. What is to be done is up to the citizens. Are they willing to support a system to be paid for by all for the few? If the bond is defeated then the sewer issue is a dead issue and the Village will need to find a way to move on. What I will personally do if elected Mayor is to work diligently to provide the honest and open answers to all of the citizens’ questions regarding this system with open and honest dialogue regarding the good and the bad effects that having or not having a Sewer Plant will have on the Village. By doing this, the voters will be able to make the proper and educated vote on the bond when the opportunity arises. I will NOT share half truths and innuendos with the citizens. If the citizens get honest and open answers to their questions and are given the true facts, I have confidence that they will make the correct and best decision for our Village.

Question 10: What do you consider to be the greatest weakness or flaw in the Village of Salado government and what can you do to change it? (200 words)

Hans Fields Answer: The greatest weaknesses in our city government is a Mayor who depends almost entirely on the Contract Village Administrator and the BOA that does not take the time to think and research the issues that come before them. Both are perfectly happy to let the Village Administrator tell them vote for this or vote for that. Most current Aldermen do not really know this Village and what the people want. It is all about them knowing what is best or what they want instead of the will of the people. To change this first I will think for myself and apply knowledge gained from our citizens in town hall meetings. The Aldermen will be involved in all aspects of what is going on in the Village government, not just informed at Workshops and BOA meetings. I will involve Aldermen, citizens and business owners on the teams to revise the ordinances not just myself and the Administrator and a CTCOG employee. I will see to it that when we have a public “town hall” to discuss the issues that we have answers for the people. We will have true “town Hall” meetings where the citizens set the agenda and get to express their concerns so that we know what they expect of their representatives. The Aldermen, as elected officials will be expected to be prepared and to speak to the issues.

Question 11: Why should anyone vote for you? (200 words)

Hans Fields Answer: Because I am the best man for the job, as for three years I’ve represented the people and their opinions on the Village Board. I am familiar with current and future issues facing the Village. Living in Salado I belong to several service clubs and volunteer in many activities. I can devote the necessary time required to address issues in a timely manner. You see me in the stores and on the streets in Salado. I want to see Salado succeed as a Village, not a big city. The next Mayor could face a situation of not being the popular choice. The candidate elected could have a high percent of the people vote against him? That will be a challenge that I am ready and able to handle. By representing all the citizens I believe that I am able to best represent the Village in bringing unity to the board and Village. I am not promising a bowling alley, Starbucks and movie theatre because that won’t happen no matter who you elect. But I will work diligently to develop our west side and will support including the west side homes and businesses in Salado’s future.

Skip Blancett

Born: Waco, Texas

Married: Gayle Blancett

Children: Tim Blancett, Brad Blancett, and Hollye Blancett Davis

Education: Bachelors: Howard Payne University, Brownwood; Masters: Southern Methodist University, Dallas; Masters: St. Mary’s University, San Antonio; Doctorate: Southern Methodist University, Dallas

Experience: Ordained United Methodist Minister: 38 Years (Retired); Officer, Chaplain, United States Navy: 22 Years (Retired, Rank: Navy Captain); Duty Stations: Naval Station, Guam; Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois; USS Duluth, LPD 6, San Diego, California; Post Graduate School, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas; Chaplain Resource Board, Norfolk, Virginia and Washington, DC; Instructor, Naval Chaplain School and Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island (leadership, ethics, war and peace, and producer of Navy Television Spots); United States Marine Corps, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Camp LeJeune, North Carolina), Desert Shield, Desert Storm; United States European Command, Germany; Chaplain of the Coast Guard, Washington, DC (Navy Chaplains serve with Marines, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines)

Current employment: Chief, Programs, Education Services Division, Fort Hood

Desire to be Mayor: Having lived/traveled around the world, Salado is our home of choice for 14 years because of the people, beauty, and academic, creative environment. Few communities compare to Salado.

Salado is entering its next stage of community life that requires an understanding and acceptance of those who are long-time residents, new people arriving daily, and youth and children. Additionally, supporting current businesses as well as those who will soon choose Salado; and improving the infrastructure of “neighborhood Salado” is essential.

Bringing Salado citizens together to embrace this next stage without compromising quality of life, pride, education, and tradition is a monumental task that requires open communication; civic and government cooperation; and balanced, creative planning and implementation. To accomplish this, citizens must be well informed, acknowledged, and be in agreement to disagree without sacrificing friendship.

Being a part of the next stage is an honor. I bring to the Mayor’s position: a passion and love for Salado and its citizens; tried and proven leadership and experience on a global scale; the ability to listen and communicate on all levels; common sense and balance to make the best decision for the good of all; integrity and transparency; and the gift of thinking creatively and positively.

There is absolutely no doubt that I can lead Salado into the next stage of community life professionally, competently, and with a servant’s heart for the people.

Skip Blancett Answer: The work done by the current city manager is significant and critical. In order for citizens to make an informed decision in November on the Sewer System, it will take someone who not only knows the engineering, technical, and legal issues but also knows the desires and needs of the community. The current city manager lives in city, has the experience, and, as a citizen, has an invested interest in Salado. On 21 April, the city will have an opportunity to hear, learn, and ask questions as he makes the presentation. His job will be to present the “no-spin” facts clearly. He will do that. If not, you will have a choice through your elected officials to cancel or extend the contract. At this juncture in the Sewer project, experience has proven, “one does not change horses in mid-stream.” It is essential that he continue at least through the November bond election.

Extending the contract is not only Salado’s decision, it is also Central Texas Council on Governments (CTCOG) decision. Either one can end the agreement. In my opinion, Salado needs a full-time City Manager and that process should begin now in case the agreement ends.

Skip Blancett Answer: The Chamber of Commerce (COC) has started by forming a citizen’s committee to propose a vision for 2015. In addition, two Town Halls should be held followed by a larger committee representing all of Salado. This committee takes the COC vision, Town Hall views, and develops a 2, 5, and 10 year plan . The plan should be presented to a third town hall, and submitted to the city government for examination and implementation. The results: a plan of the people, for the people and by the people.

To bolster businesses, the golf course continues to improve as well as implement an advertising campaign to “play” Salado. Tourism continues to bring in various groups, and we “Shop Salado” first. The businesses will do their part offering outstanding customer service, quality merchandise, and special events like “Teacher Appreciation Saturday.” If affordable, give Salado residents a 10% discount on purchases.

Skip Blancett Answer: The mayor occupies the highest elective office in the city government and is expected to provide leadership necessary to keep it moving in the proper direction. The mayor presides over council meetings, signatory for the city, and recognized as the town’s ceremonial/governmental head. Their most important duty is to administer the legislative responsibilities: identifying the needs of the city, developing programs, and ensuring all services satisfactorily reflect the policy goals of the council.

Aldermen are the town’s legislators with policymaking duties: identifying the needs of local residents, for mulating programs, and measuring the effectiveness of services. They regulate, employ, purchase, and finance. The city manager is responsible for the daily administrative operations to include : supervision of operations, oversight of employees; preparing, monitoring/executing the city budget; technical advisor on governmental operations; public-relations; ensuring government functions operate together to their best effect; and attending all council meetings, with no voting right. A strong working relationship built upon trust and respect with all is a must. Without it, local government is not effective. Along with the workshops, I will ask the Alderman and City Manager to meet each quarter for an uninterrupted day of city planning. Incorporate teamwork instead of micromanagement.

Question 4. What are your thoughts on the Village Comprehensive Plan? (200 words)

The Comprehensive Plan was approved and signed April 2004. It is a planning resource that covers such information as: guiding principles, future land use, transportation, parks and recreation, public facilities, historic preservation, corridor design, community livability and economic development. Well written, the statistics are fascinating and the city maps, relevant. Unfortunately, to my knowledge, it has not been updated. Copies are hard to find and most people, when asked, have never heard of it. This “how-to and “reason why” plan presents a solid foundation on which to build. The names on the “Acknowledgements” page” are well known community leaders who have a deep, abiding interest in Salado. Hopefully, some will serve in updating it along with service organizations, and new citizens with creative ideas and “fresh eyes.” The Chamber of Commerce and others have been working on a Vision Plan since 22 February. Once completed, it should be a significant piece of the process. There should be a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year plan so that each stage can be measured and altered when necessary.

Question 5. What are your top five goals for the Village that you would like to see accomplished in the next five years? How would you help to accomplish those goals? (200 words)

Skip Blancett Answer: Sewer, annexation, infrastructure including code enforcement, preserving/ enhancing historical Salado (Main Street), and west side development are givens. These are massive issues. The first two are time-sensitive. Unless Salado takes action now, “bedroom community” will not be a threat but a reality along with tax increases and property devaluation. This is not “doom and gloom” thinking; it is straight talk. This being said, I believe there are other issues competing for equal attention. These are in no particular order: (1) Communicating with Salado citizens through Town Hall meetings, newsletters, a weekly column in the Village Voice, and a webcast that takes city meetings into the home. (2) Supporting the Golf Course and Stage Coach Inn which are both historical and, along with other businesses, economic engines that bring people to Salado. Local residents can help by participating often in downtown activities and talking about the good things Salado is doing (3) Welcoming and involving new residents and including them in activities. (4) Establishing a grant writer’s guild to write and submit applications for cost-saving grants. (5) Ensuring that our children and youth have the best education opportunities to grow and safe places to go.

Skip Blancett Answer Salado’s growth and development have not been slow considering the economy, construction, and no sewer system. Salado is poised for growth when construction is completed and consensus is reached on the sewer system. Salado’s growth should be at a manageable, measured rate with standards that meets the town’s high standards and codes. The Alderman, as the elected policy-makers, will certainly have a say in how Salado grows. However, the people have a greater say. For instance, if there is a November Bond election, their vote will determine Salado’s future growth. Whether “for” or “against” Salado will not remain as it is. They growth of Texas and the I-35 corridor have decided that. If Salado is going to be the beautiful, quality town that meets the needs of future generations, it will require a reasonable growth that enhances the economy and the community.” The Alderman are key to making that happen.

Question 7: What are your thoughts on the conditions of the village roads? (200 word limit)

Skip Blancett Answer: Infrastructure is a top issue. Roads are part of infrastructure. There are approximately 20 miles of roads in Salado that must be maintained, repaired, and, in some cases, replaced. This is not cheap and requires budget planning. In a recent discussion with an Austin road engineer that moved to Salado a year ago; I asked him about some towns budgeting for 2 miles of road repair each year. He said, “Yes, that formula is used by other towns and it seems to work well. In ten years the roads are repaired and the cycle starts, again. It is a necessary expense for doing business.” The conversation ended with, “If this works well for other towns, it is worth researching and considering.” Last week, I was told that several years ago, Gerry Reihsen, PE, and the late Bruce Butscher collaborated to develop a comprehensive road maintenance program that was submitted to the Village for implementation. If that information is correct, their plan should be located, studied, and, if relevant, used to formulate a revised plan that keeps roads maintained every 5 to 10 years. A concrete, workable plan should be devised, approved, budgeted, and implemented as soon as feasible.

Question 8: What are your thoughts on the maintenance and operations of the village park? (150 word limit)

Skip Blancett Answer: The village park is a quality of life asset as it allows adults to relax; teens to meet their friends in a safe environment, and children to play learning to socialize while they exercise. They also offer a great setting for weddings, reunions, or a community function. The village park defines who we are as a community and must be maintained, kept safe, and attractive. Earth Day proved this as citizens learned about Salado’s environment and how to keep it healthy. To accomplish this, we should:(1) Organize a Village Park Committee to work with the Mayor and Aldermen in overseeing the maintenance, safety, and repairs.(2) Solicit Civic and church organizations to take scheduled turns working in the village park.(3) Involve students, Boy and Girl Scouts to do park Service Projects. We have the talent and interest to make Salado parks an integral part of our quality of life goals.

Skip Blancett Answer: The sewer system is important to the future of Salado. But, does the average citizen, without engineering experience, know what is involved in building such a facility? Where will it be located or what the realistic cost will be? Is it to be built in phases (i.e. town first and then residences) and how long will it take to build the facility? Will sewer lines go down Main Street, Church Street or some other road? Where will the treated water go? Should a sewer line for west Salado be completed before our section of I-35 is completed? These questions must be addressed and answered before citizens are asked to vote and pay for it. A considerable amount of money has been spent on various treatment options but has never moved forward. This I know from owning Septic systems homes in two states: septic systems are usually for rural settings and we are an incorporated town that will grow regardless of desires. They are not only a financial issue; septic systems are a quality of life issue that has the potential of becoming an environmental health issue. It is time to agree and approve a feasible plan, submit it to qualified engineers, and inform the citizens. If elected Mayor, I will: (1) stay abreast of plans developed by the city manager, approved by Aldermen, and submitted to the engineer. (2) have another Town Hall to present information in time to make an informed decision. (3) work with the Aldermen to bring to the voters a bond election for sewer. The time is now to make a decision. The future of Salado is calling.

Question 10: What do you consider to be the greatest weakness or flaw in the Village of Salado government and what can you do to change it? (200 words)

Skip Blancett Answer: When I decided to enter the campaign for Mayor, I made it very clear to the people that asked and supported me that ‘this campaign would not be one that made myself look good by making others look bad. There would be no name-calling, plagiarism, finger pointing, accusations or answering accusations that were not true. If we were really a quality community, a model for other communities to follow; there would be no place for such immature, irresponsible action. We would campaign hard, be creative through multimedia, try to reach all ages, and be transparent.”

The number of candidates running for School Board, Alderman, and Mayor speaks volumes, and we have all expressed our views on the issues. There is no need to re-live the past. It is time to live in the present and plan for the future. It is time to elect the best candidate that can walk the talk.

Question 11: Why should anyone vote for you? (200 words)

Skip Blancett Answer: No one should vote for Skip Blancett just because you know him and might like him, or because you like Gayle. They should vote for Salado and what is best for Salado. It is going to take all of us, and, I mean all of us, working together to meet the challenges of the next two years. We are at the crossroads of our future as a community. Put aside the negativism; labeling; agendas and interest groups — none of this is as important as coming together as a community who is willing to see beyond self-interest; and ready to roll up their sleeves and work toward the common good of all. The candidate that can come closest to achieving those goals is the one that deserves your vote. If it is me, I will give you all I have; if it is someone else, if asked, I will give them all I have. And, at the end of the day, I will still speak to you and be a friend.

Now is the time to vote for Salado. Your vote will make a difference and carry weight toward our future. One vote. Choose wisely.

Rick Ashe

I have lived with my wife Shannon in Salado since 1991, and we are long time members of First Baptist Salado. Our daughter Addie is a sophomore at Salado HS. I am a LT with the Temple police department where I have worked for 23 years, and a veteran of the U.S Army. I served as the Temple PD Public Information Officer for four years. I was one of the first Aldermen elected in 2000 when Salado first incorporated. I helped establish the Salado Police Department, helped build a playground in Pace Park and worked to establish an emergency plan. After 4 years as Alderman, I was elected to Mayor and served two terms leaving in 2008. During my term as Mayor, the Village grew its Village limits and ETJ. The Village also bought and moved into a new municipal building. The building was paid off on the last day of my term as Mayor. I also led the response and recovery efforts after the 2007 major flood in the Village.

I have served on the board of directors and as president of a statewide police organization with thousands of members. I also served on the executive committee of the Central Texas Council of Governments.

I believe my past experience with the Village government will be a great benefit in this time of major challenges facing the Village. I have a wide and varied leadership background and a proven ability to work with diverse groups to solve problems.

I have always said that it was an honor and privilege to serve as Mayor of Salado and I look forward to serving in the future.

Yes, I believe that it has been working well having the city manager in the office. As to keeping CTCOG, I would extend that contract through the selling of the Municipal Enhancement Bond and getting the sewer system started to avoid disrupting the process. Long term I would like to hire someone full time for Salado that would be working just for the village. CTCOG could help us in that search for a qualified person to take that position. By bringing someone in full time we could expand their duties and responsibilities. Contracting with CTCOG was a pilot program that allowed Salado to bring in a city manager in a way that was affordable, and allowed us to determine if having a city manager would be right for Salado. That situation was never meant to be a long term.

The Village currently provides money in its budget for Tourism to help pay for advertising. We need to keep those funds available and consider increasing the amount during the construction period. The second area in which the Village could help is to keep in contact with TXDOT to insure that there is adequate signage on I-35, to help travelers can find the exits into the Village. With the increased traffic through downtown we also need to make sure that we keep Main Street well maintained and safe for our citizens and visitors alike.

The Mayor has numerous duties and responsibilities and varies based upon the priorities of the person in office. The Mayor is the face of the Village, its chief spokesman and salesman. The Mayor is the chief executive of the Village government as well as part of the Board of Aldermen. As the chief executive the Mayor is responsible for the activities of the Village employees, but the direct supervision and administrative duties should be handled by the city manager. The Mayor leads the Board and sets the agenda but the Board makes final decisions. As to setting goals, when I was Mayor, as part of our budget process we would first have goal setting sessions. We would set short and long term goals and review our last year’s goals to check progress. I believe that this is very important and that it is the Mayor’s job to lead the Board through this process for the best outcome.

Question 4. What are your thoughts on the Village Comprehensive Plan? (200 words)

The Village wrote a very detailed Comprehensive Plan several years ago. There were many different groups that contributed to the plan and extensive input was taken from the citizens. I would review the plan yearly as part of the goal setting process to track progress or make changes as needed. I see no need to start a new plan, but rather update the plan in place and make improvements. I believe it is absolutely necessary we utilize the Comprehensive Plan we have for the Village to help the Board make more informed decisions about the future of the Village.

Question 5. What are your top five goals for the Village that you would like to see accomplished in the next five years? How would you help to accomplish those goals? (200 words)

The number one goal is to get the sewer system in place. This will allow the downtown and the west side to bring in more business and lift the whole Village. We are already on track to get that done and as Mayor my plan would be to aggressively guide the process through working with the stakeholders to get the project completed. Second would be to get the Village municipality better organized and achieve overall better function. This includes getting a full time city manager. CTCOG could help guide us through the process to find the right person for Salado. I think we need to address the housing for the Village offices and Police. We should look at both buildings we own and design a better use of the space. I would like to get our Board on track to set goals and update plans during our budget process. When I was Mayor before, the Board and I would meet and set short and long term goals right before we started the budget process. The last goal would be to establish regular meetings with the heads of all the groups and organizations in Salado so we can support each other and seek better use of our resources.

Rick Ashe Answer: I do not have specific numbers to say if the growth is slower than in the past, but in general, growth has slowed from the 2008 downturn in the economy. Over the last 15 years since I have been involved with the incorporation of the Village of Salado, I have watched businesses open and close in the area many different times. I believe the best things the Village can do is to provide good infrastructure, a safe and clean environment for our visitors, and have government policies that help foster business growth. There are many factors that affect growth that are outside the control of the Village, but we should work on the areas we can control. There are many challenges to the Village that keep us from growing, including the fact that we do not provide a sewer system, that we cannot annex properties unless the owners request to be annexed, and that we are slowly being surrounded by other cities. I believe we are on the verge of being able to do good things and grow the Village in a way that would make the citizens of Salado proud. We can overcome these problems and set Salado on a path for growth in the future.

Question 7: What are your thoughts on the conditions of the village roads? (200 word limit)

Rick Ashe Answer: Roads have always been an issue with the Village. Historically, we’ve come a long way since we had the Bell County Weekend Release Inmates filling the potholes with cold mix. We do not have the money to repair roads at the rate that they need repairs. We have used several different types of repair and companies to do the work. This will continue to get worse in the upcoming years unless we make changes. The BOA has over the years made priority decisions on which repairs need to be made. I would like to review and update the list of roads that need to be repaired, while also looking at the types of repairs we are making. This is a tough issue that is going to require some hard choices over the next few years. I would also like to get input from the Village on what level of road repairs they will accept and at what cost.

Question 8: What are your thoughts on the maintenance and operations of the village park? (150 word limit)

Rick Ashe Answer: The Village only has one public park now, Pace Park. Currently the Village maintenance employee is in charge of maintaining and cleaning the park. The Village does rent the park out at a reasonable rate so there is some income from the park; however, we need to look at the fee structure to see if it is still in line with the costs. When I was an Alderman we built the playground in the park for younger children. I am very proud of the work we did and the fundraising efforts with a group of parents who came together to accomplish our goal: a safe and beautiful playground for our kids. I would like to look at updating the facilities in the park as well as possibly adding a splash pad or other water feature.

Rick Ashe Answer: Yes, I believe that the sewer system is important to the Village and its future. It will be imperative that the Mayor and BOA be fully on board and support the sewer system. It will be important for the Mayor to explain and educate the Village voters on the need for the sewer system and how it will benefit all the citizens of the Village. I would actively promote and advocate for the bond issue and would go to as many groups as possible to talk about the bond election. This is a very important issue for the Village and the Mayor and the BOA should lead the way on this issue.

Question 10: What do you consider to be the greatest weakness or flaw in the Village of Salado government and what can you do to change it? (200 words)

Rick Ashe Answer: I would say that there are challenges to the government that need to be addressed. We are a very limited type of government with low taxes and limited services. This puts a strain on our government to try and provide the best Village for the citizens with limited resources. This is not insurmountable if we prioritize what we want the Village to provide to its citizens. The main area that I would focus on is getting the Village leadership working together by keeping the BOA and employees focused on what we need to get done. The primary job of the Mayor is to guide the BOA and employees of the Village: to provide leadership and vision for the Village. Having a city administrator will facilitate with the technical aspects of governing and provide us with expertise to help the BOA make decisions. Over the past 15 years the Village has made great strides and I believe with guidance from me as Mayor and working with the BOA we can continue moving forward.

Question 11: Why should anyone vote for you? (200 words)

Rick Ashe Answer: I would say the main reason to vote for me is my proven ability to work within a government system. I have spent my entire career working for city governments, including but not limited to, public speaking and networking, and I understand the system well. As one of the first Aldermen and a two term Mayor, I have a unique understanding of the Village and its inner workings. Over the years I have kept up with the issues of the Village. I am a practical and realistic person, but also a visionary. As President Reagan said, “There is no limit to what a man can do or where he can go if he doesn’t mind who gets the credit.” With my knowledge and experience I would be able to assume the duties on day one with little transition issues. While I do have a full time job, my schedule allows me to have two or three days a week to dedicate to the Village. I believe that Salado is poised for great things and that my experience and abilities would be a benefit to the Village as Mayor of Salado and I ask for your support and vote.

Danney McCort

Hans Fields

Skip Blancett

Rick Ashe

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