The Seguin Daily News continues to highlight the local candidates appearing on the March 5, 2024 Primary Election Ballot. Each candidate was asked to respond to the following three questions. Early voting began on Tuesday, Feb. 20 and runs through Friday, March 1. Today’s featured contest includes two of the five candidates vying for the Republican nomination for Guadalupe County Commissioner Pct. 1. The remaining three candidates, Dustin Engelke, Bryan Underwood and Jacqueline “Jackie” Ott will appear in Friday’s Seguin Daily News. All five candidates look to replace longtime Commissioner Greg Seidenberger who has chosen to retire. The winner of this GOP nomination will earn the right to face the Democratic nominee, Nahomie Alanis; and the Libertarian nominee, Nolan Schmidt, who are both running unopposed for the nominations of their respective parties.
Candidate Name:
James B. Ransdell
Guadalupe County Commissioner Precinct 1
Tell us why you’re running.
As a Republican candidate for Commissioner of Precinct 1, I step forward with a profound sense of duty and responsibility to the constituents. The departure of Mr. Greg Seidenberger will create a vacancy that cannot be overlooked, considering his remarkable dedication and service to this precinct. His absence leaves a void that needs to be filled by someone equally committed and passionate about the welfare of our community. Like Mr. Seidenberger, I too possess a servant heart and a deep-seated desire to serve the people of Precinct 1. I believe in the importance of being present within the community, listening to its concerns, and actively working towards solutions. Building relationships of trust is not just a political strategy; it’s a fundamental aspect of effective governance. I am motivated by the opportunity to connect with members of this precinct, understanding their needs, and striving to fulfill them to the best of my ability.
What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?
The winner of this seat will face several significant challenges, and I am well-prepared to tackle them head-on. One major issue is the need to plan for the future effectively. By adopting a forward-thinking approach, we can anticipate and meet the needs of future generations by investing in strategic infrastructure projects. I fully support the county’s current efforts in this regard, such as the expansion of fire stations and the recruitment of more EMS professionals.
Additionally, fostering strong relationships with both cities within the county and neighboring counties will be crucial for managing growth effectively. Collaboration and cooperation will be key in addressing common challenges and maximizing opportunities for development.
Another pressing concern is the county budget, which directly impacts property taxes. I believe in conducting a thorough analysis of the budget, carefully considering the implications of policy changes, to ensure that we can keep property tax rates as low as possible while still meeting the needs of our community. By taking a proactive and thoughtful approach to these challenges, I am confident that we can navigate them successfully and build a brighter future for our county.
Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?
What sets me apart from my opponents is my unwavering belief that Precinct 1 deserves a full-time commissioner who embodies honesty, hard work, and dedication to serving all residents. My extensive experience in civil engineering projects has given me a unique perspective on how these projects impact local communities over time, which is essential for Guadalupe County. Having worked my way up through the ranks, I understand the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Having spent almost a decade in the Guadalupe County Road and Bridge Department, I intimately understand the condition of our county roads and the significance of proactive planning. I believe in leading by example, which is why I actively participate in local food bank distribution events in Seguin and work with a local Texas Ramp Project group to build wheelchair ramps for those with mobility issues, thereby enhancing their freedom at home.
Recognizing the importance of youth for the county’s future, I volunteer on the Seguin ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) to ensure that our community’s values are reflected in health education instruction. With my combination of experience, vision, and dedication, I am prepared to lead Precinct 1 into a brighter future.
Candidate Name:
Clint Taft
Guadalupe County Commissioner – Precinct 1
Tell us why you’re running?
As a husband, father, and small business owner, I want to make a difference in helping to make Guadalupe County a better place to live, work, do business, and raise a family. My children and their future here are the driving force behind my desire to serve as commissioner.
Being a lifelong and fifth-generation resident of the county, I have experienced the growth and the threat it brings to our quality of life. We have one place to call home and one opportunity to do things the right way. I am committed to making well-informed decisions, listening to community members, and putting the needs of our residents first.
What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?
Road Improvements – Responsible Growth – Public Safety – Fiscal Responsibility
Our roads, whether county or state-managed, urgently need attention. Well-maintained roads are essential to attract businesses, provide emergency services, and ensure safe travel for residents. As commissioner, I will make sure that all roads are a priority and will constantly communicate with TXDOT regarding needed improvements for our state-maintained roads. This includes pressuring them to properly control the numerous unsafe intersections around the county.
Our rapid growth must be effectively managed to preserve our quality of life. I will ensure that new developments are held to the current regulations set by the county.
I would also be supportive of revising our subdivision rules and regulations to bring more accountability to the developers. We must partner with the various municipalities in the county to ensure that we are growing in a responsible manner. Growth is inevitable, but we must make sure to go about it the right way.
Our law enforcement and first responders must be supported and adequately funded to ensure public safety. I will advocate for them, ensuring they have all the resources needed to properly do their job. Everyone in this community deserves to feel safe.
I will fight to keep our tax rate low and will identify fiscal waste in the budget and move to eliminate it. It is also important to find money in the budget for public safety and infrastructure needs. We can use the growth in the tax base to fund those essential needs and not increase taxes.
Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?
My business leadership has been successful due to methodical and sensible management. Additionally, overseeing a multimillion-dollar business including supervising employees, preparing budgets, and making tough decisions will be an asset to county government. I fostered relationships as well as created a sense of teamwork between all employees in the business world. If elected, I will step away from my business roles and focus on being a full-time commissioner.
I will be very accessible and plan to host a monthly evening gathering at local eateries to share updates, news, and plans, as well as hear concerns and receive feedback to take back to the court. Most residents are working during commissioner’s court meetings, and this will give them an opportunity to communicate with me in a casual environment.
I genuinely and deeply care about this community and will not see this as just a job. Through my community involvement, I engage with people from all walks of life and political affiliations. They can count on me to be a voice for them. I plan to live here for the remainder of my life and will always do what is best for our county and its residents. I respectfully ask for your support and vote.