Qualifications
What training, experience, and characteristics qualify you for this position?
6 years on Houston City Council, 12 years as Harris County Treasurer, and Certified County Investment Officer. Honors BA from the University of Houston; 18 years on a bank board of directors; HCA Hospital board of directors; University of Houston Foundation board of trustees and investment committee chairman. Winner of two transparency awards in government finance. U.S. Air Force and Texas National Guard veteran. First responder with North Channel EMS. The only candidate for county judge who has helped pass a property tax rate cut in the City of Houston, earning the Political Courage Award.
Budget
Harris County is facing a projected $129 million budget deficit. How would you address this shortfall?
Harris County must live within its means. As former County Treasurer, I oversaw balanced budgets, reduced debt, and returned unspent funds. I will apply that same discipline as County Judge by thoroughly reviewing spending, cutting unnecessary administrative costs and non-essential programs, and prioritizing core services such as public safety, flood control, courts, and infrastructure. Long-vacant positions and areas of rapid budget growth will be examined closely. I oppose raising property taxes. Instead, I will control expenditures, streamline operations, and deliver a balanced budget that protects taxpayers while maintaining essential services.
Infrastructure
Harris County voters approved a flood control bond in 2018. How will you ensure those funds are deployed effectively, and what additional measures would you take to address flooding and infrastructure resilience across the county?
Voters approved the 2018 bond to reduce flood risk. I will ensure funds are spent efficiently and transparently on projects prioritized by engineering need, with public tracking of progress. Key efforts include accelerating the Kingwood Diversion Channel, Taylor Gully improvements, Bens Branch maintenance, and Lake Houston dredging, while preventing diversion from core flood reduction. Beyond the bond, I will strengthen regional cooperation with neighboring counties, improve channel and detention maintenance, support long-term watershed planning including the San Jacinto River Master Plan, and pursue state and federal partnerships—keeping fiscal discipline central so Harris County is better prepared for future storms.
Accountability
How will you build consensus among Commissioners Court members to govern effectively, and what is your approach to transparency and accountability in county government?
Effective governance requires professional collaboration focused on shared priorities such as public safety, fiscal responsibility, and flood control. With nearly two decades working alongside different mayors, judges, and commissioners, I will promote respectful, merits-based discussion to restore a constructive tone and deliver practical results for residents. Transparency and accountability are essential. As County Treasurer I earned awards for financial openness and balanced budgets. As County Judge I will ensure open processes, clear public reporting on spending and performance, and rigorous oversight so taxpayers can see results and hold government accountable.
