Welcome to the WCN Candidates’ Forum

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Welcome to the Wilson County News Candidates’ Forum!

We invited candidates facing opposition for area city council and school board seats on the May 4 ballots to participate in our print Candidates’ Forum. Early voting began April 22 and continues through Tuesday, April 30. This is a free service we provide for voter information. All the following candidates in contested races were invited to participate:

•China Grove: two at-large seats — David E. Windhorst, Eddy J. Perez, Frank Bennett, Gail Beaver, and Fred Bean

•Elmendorf: mayor — incumbent Mike Gonzales and Clayton J. Redmon Sr.

•Floresville: mayor — Gloria Morales Cantu, Roy Idrach, and David J. “D.J.” Ortiz Jr.; Place 1 — Marissa Ximenez and Elodia Trinidad Ramos; and Place 2 — Terry Rolland and Mario Morones

•St. Hedwig: City council place 4 — Doretta Murray and Patrick Tabor Sr.

•Falls City Independent School District (ISD): two-at large seats — Jonathan Kutac, Don Moy, Kevin Lyssy, David Lee, and Cathy Stolle

•Poth ISD: four at-large seats — Ben Pruski, Byron Pfeifer, Erika Urbanczyk, Scott Lyssy, and Jason Smolka

•Stockdale ISD: District 4 — Tanner Voelkel and Kenneth Martinez.

Questions

Candidates were asked to provide a response, maximum 300 words, to the following questions:

•What is your personal and professional background?

•What are the three biggest challenges/issues facing your city/school district (whichever applies to you) in the next four years? How do you propose to meet these? How will your experience help you address them?

Responses received by the April 17 deadline appear here.

Vote!

Early voting by personal appearance is underway through Tuesday, April 30. Early voting locations vary; see page 3A for more information (or click here), or call your City Hall or school district administration office with questions. On Election Day — Saturday, May 4 — polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Floresville Mayor

David ‘DJ’ Ortiz

David Ortiz, a lifelong Floresville resident and ’98 graduate, embarked on his medical path at 22 as a CNA, later becoming an EMT at 25, where he then volunteered his time and service with Floresville EMS. Graduating from Kaplan University in 2009, he settled as an ER nurse at Connally Memorial Medical Center, facing challenges like the Sutherland Springs incident and COVID-19, which shaped his resiliency, leadership, and perseverance, which are pillars of his character.

Currently, as Director of Marketing at Emergency Care of Floresville, he’s committed to community service, and given a platform to give back to the community. David continues to volunteer on the Floresville fitness committee, sits as vice president on Floresville ESD 5. David’s personal profile has cultivated deep family values, a competitive nature that continually drives him to exceed and motivate those around him. David epitomizes integrity and dedication. He’s married to Ursula, his wife of 22 years, and is a proud father of three — Kayla, David John III, and Gabriel. Beyond his professional endeavors, David, a history buff, finds joy in golf and coaching youth sports. With his commitment to the community, David remains ready to serve.

1) Navigating the challenges of new growth

2) Making sure that the infrastructure is ready to support it.

3) Integrating multiple visions on how to enhance the city.

Creating balance to create solutions to create progress.

My track record demonstrates my ability to thrive in high-pressure situations while collaborating with diverse teams. Through this experience, I’ve cultivated innovative approaches to inspire and unite individuals toward a common goal. My commitment to finding solutions, fueled by my competitive spirit, ensures that I prioritize effective governance and community-driven progress.

My lifelong dedication to service has honed my ability to listen attentively. As your mayor, listening will be my priority.

Gloria Morales Cantu

My name is Gloria Morales Cantu, I am a lifelong Floresville resident, and have devoted my life to raising a loving family, as well as 25 years to the FISD. Served as a Councilperson for three terms, I am a Committee Member of Floresville Food Pantry, Floresville Fan Page, Wesley Nurse Health Ministry Team, and on the Camino Real Community Services Board of Trustees representing Wilson County.

My inspiration to serve our community comes from a desire to voice the needs of our citizens. As a former member of the Floresville City Council, I took action to work on the Turn Around Plan for the financial future of the City, from a deficit when I started to a surplus when I left.

I will continue to support Small Business, bring new businesses to create new jobs. I will continue supporting upgrading our city water systems by replacing street water pipes and the city sewer drainage pipes. Upgrades and improvements for our streets is another project that I will continue to push forward. I will continue to work with local programs for substance use disorder and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

I will continue to work on the nine stages of our ADA downtown sidewalks, so that our downtown will be accessible to all. I will continue to support the beautification of our city, including the Hike and Bike Trail.

I remain committed to encouraging a healthy quality of life in Floresville.

I will work with other committees encouraging growth while always being mindful of our tax rates.

My service requires commitment and responsibility. As an elected official, I give it my all every step of the way. I know who I am here to serve — you, the citizens of Floresville.

I would appreciate your Vote on May 4 for mayor.

Roy Idrach

Hello, my name is Roy Idrach; I am 83 years old. I came from Trenton, NJ, to Fort Sam for medical school in 1959 and never left the area. I’m running to be your City Mayor. In our country, we elect representatives that we hope will make good decisions. That still doesn’t mean we can just turn our world over to them.

As your new Mayor, I bring experience in finance, real estate, business development, and military service with civil engineer operations; I want to make it my personal mission to serve communities as they deserve and dispel the stigma that “all politicians are the same.”

In the coming years, we need to meet challenges of explosive growth and emphasize the abundant opportunities for the city and surrounding areas. We need to partner with the county, state, and federal government to develop progress, such as bringing good-paying jobs, taking advantage of the 181/I-37 corridor development —within 25 years it’ll be called the new “Katy of Houston,” due to the expansion of trade from Corpus Christi to San Antonio and Austin. We are geographically located in the middle of the action, bringing the opportunity of large capital investment to create good-paying jobs, not just wages. You don’t have to be an expert to know how to meet those challenges. We need to provide public/ private services, like public transportation, a metro area airport, and support for affordable housing for the younger and senior generations, where their children/ grandchildren will have the opportunity of better lives via the building of condos and co-op ownership supported by HOAs to protect their investments.

Finally we need to bring our finances in order; we can no longer afford to be borrowing with binder and guarantees, because of our credit rating. Cities don’t go broke. The citizens do.

Floresville City Council

Elodia Trinidad Ramos, Place 1

I, Elodia Trinidad Ramos, am a lifelong resident of Floresville. I attended Floresville schools and graduated from East Central High School.

At the age of 17, I started working at the San Antonio State Hospital. Through hard work and determination, I earned my Associate degree, while promoting through the ranks to a position in Human Resources, where I also worked in employee relations, benefits, employment clerical and administrative support, HR surveys, drug testing, and other fields, before retiring after 33 years of service.

I then continued my passion for service with Mission Road Ministries for 10 years. My work there consisted of a position with Human Resources and Hiring.

I then continued my journey by working with the City of Floresville in various departments until I started as a Deputy Clerk in the Municipal Court of Floresville. I am currently still working as an Evidence Technician with the Elmendorf Police Department.

Our biggest challenges facing the city are an aging infrastructure, lack of industry, and growth.

To meet these we should:

•Develop an infrastructure master plan for future and long-term needs.

•Attract industry to locate here by offering incentives.

•Growth is going to happen because of our proximity to San Antonio.

Why not attract growth for our future citizens and youth with good-paying jobs locally? Everyone will benefit.

My job experience has taught me to be a problem solver, being self-reliant, understanding of how organizations work and operate, teamwork, practical skills, self-confidence, organizational skills, networking, business etiquette, negotiable skills, maturity, determination, and learning from my mistakes. Hard work is what has educated me.

These are the three main concerns the citizens have voiced to me. If elected, I will be their voice for these and others they may have.

Marissa Ximenez, Place 1

I have dedicated years to serving our community, personally and professionally. Before entering council, I worked as a School Psychologist and Director of Special Education. Elected in 2018, I’ve worked to address the needs and concerns of our constituents. My background in administration and experience on FEDC and the Texas Municipal League has equipped me with skills and insight necessary to navigate city governance and effectively advocate for our community’s interests.

Three Challenges Facing our City

a. Economic Recovery and Growth: The recent economic downturn has left many families and businesses struggling. We must prioritize initiatives that stimulate economic recovery and promote sustainable growth. This includes attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and investing in programs to ensure our workforce remains competitive. b. Community engagement: This is crucial for effective governance and ensuring the concerns of all residents are addressed. c. Infrastructure and Sustainability: Our city’s infrastructure is aging; we must invest in modernizing our utility systems and promote sustainability. This includes expanding utility services, upgrading infrastructure sources, and implementing policies to address growth.

Proposed Solutions/ Experience:

a. Economic Recovery: I propose implementing targeted tax incentives to attract businesses and create jobs, establishing public-private partnerships to revitalize commercial districts, and prioritizing infrastructure projects to stimulate economic growth. My experience with the Texas Municipal League has provided me with expertise to develop and implement economic policies. b. Community engagement: I’ll empower community organizations, and grassroots initiatives to serve as conduits for engagement by providing resources, and support to help groups amplify the voices of residents and advocate for their needs. c. Infrastructure and Sustainability: I’ll work to secure funding for infrastructure projects, prioritize investments in sustainable technologies, and collaborate with local stakeholders to develop comprehensive sustainability plans. My experience has prepared me to tackle challenges and ensure resilient future for our community.

Terry Rolland, Place 2

Terry Rolland, Place 2

My professional background includes 11 years with the Department of the Navy at Concord Naval Weapons Station in California, five years as a Sheriff’s Technician at the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, Calif., and 11 years as a probation officer until my retirement in Alameda County, in Oakland, Calif. I paid my own way through college while working full time until becoming employed as a probation officer. I was raised with strong morals, not only for yourself but respect for others, as well. As an Air Force dependent and a Navy Vet, I was blessed to live abroad, living in, or traveling through, all 50 states. My personal background includes life experiences that taught me to respect all cultures, but I’ll always be a proud Texan!

The three biggest challenges facing our city in the next four years are:

1) Update city ordinances

2) Keep our city budget on track and maintain a “rainy day fund” to address any unforeseen condition to avoid shifting funds budgeted to run our city

3) Maintain the history of our city while adding new housing and businesses and address quality-of-life issues for our residents.

I plan to work with city council members, city administrators, and legal to update outdated ordinances, work to maintain our city budget and our “rainy day fund,” and to be responsive to quality-of-life issues to our residents in a timely manner.

My experience includes two years as your current Place 2 city council member and I am determined to continue in assuring our city government continues to be run with integrity, transparency, to operate efficiently and effectively, to follow through on issues affecting our community, and to be responsive to all our residents without any bias.

I humbly ask for your vote once again and look forward to serving you.

Mario Morones, Place 2

Mario Morones, Place 2

I’m a lifelong resident of Floresville. Of the people for the people. I will work with anyone and am always willing to help my fellow man. I have experience serving on city council and know what it takes to get the work done.

Three challenges:

•Affordable Housing: Ensuring access to safe, affordable housing options for residents of all income levels, addressing issues of affordability, availability, and housing quality.

•Sustainability: Implementing policies and initiatives to promote a healthy and sustainable environment for current and future generations.

•Public Safety: Enhancing community safety through effective law enforcement, crime prevention strategies, emergency preparedness, and partnerships with residents and local organizations to address public safety concerns.

How I will address the challenges:

1. Affordable Housing: Implement zoning reforms and incentives to encourage the development of affordable housing units. Also, explore different housing solutions.

2. Sustainability: Educate residents about the importance of environmental stewardship and encourage sustainable lifestyle choices. Also, ensure infrastructure is up to date for current and future residents.

3. Public Safety: Build trust and improve communication between law enforcement and residents. Ensure the department has all tools needed to keep residents safe.

By collaborating with stakeholders, using resources effectively, and prioritizing community needs, Floresville can make meaningful progress in addressing these challenges and creating a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive community for all residents.

Stockdale ISD board of trustees

Kenneth Martinez, District 4

My name is Kenneth Martinez, and I have been a resident of Stockdale for the entirety of my life. I am presenting my candidacy for the position of school board trustee to represent District 4. With my extensive experience of over 20 years as an educator and coach in the school system, I possess a unique perspective that distinguishes me from other board members. Having worked in both 6A and 3A school districts, I have accumulated valuable knowledge of what it takes to establish a successful school.

I take great pride in being acknowledged as a fair and honest member of my community. On May 4, I humbly request your support to enable me to advocate for you and act in the best interests of our students, teachers, faculty, and community. My pledge to you is that I will work in collaboration with board members to devise innovative solutions and formulate specific and measurable goals that are attainable, and aimed at enhancing student education and achievement both inside and outside the classroom.

Tanner Voelkel, District 4

As alumni of Stockdale High School, my wife Amy and I maintain our home and a successful business in Stockdale. We have three children; our son graduated from Stockdale in 2022 and now attends Texas A&M University, and both of our younger children are students at Stockdale Elementary. I hold a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M-Kingsville and an MBA from Tarleton State University. I have over 15 years of experience in financial management in the public sector. My family attends St. Mary’s Catholic Church and volunteers for many local organizations. I have served as a Stockdale ISD Board Trustee since 2016, serving as Vice President from 2021-2023 and as President since 2023.

I believe our primary focus as a district should be a sustained emphasis on an environment that fosters high expectations, accountability, and continuous improvement. We have defined goals, as well as performance measures intended to secure our desired outcomes among our students, staff, and administrators. Key components to our continued success will be our ability to recruit and retain the best teachers and staff by offering competitive compensation packages, improving district facilities, and offering programs that will provide every student with opportunities to excel in a wide variety of areas.

During my tenure on the Board, we have accomplished the lowest tax rate in 15 years, a Financial Integrity Rating of 98 percent, an average pay increase of 10 percent for teachers, construction of a new gymnasium, science classrooms, and weight room, and increased CTE programs. Recently, I participated in a long-range planning committee with community members to identify the most pressing needs among our facilities.

I will continue to improve our district, advocate for the success and safety of all students and staff, and provide open and honest communication. I am asking for your vote and support.

Poth ISD board of trustees

Ben Pruski, at-large

Dear Residents of Poth ISD,

My name is Ben Pruski, and I am honored to be running for the Poth school board. As a proud graduate of Poth ISD and a dedicated business owner, I am deeply invested in the success of our community and the future of our schools.

My journey through Poth ISD has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the value of education and the opportunities it provides. Poth ISD has always had an excellent pathway for college-bound students and I want to continue that tradition. There have been great strides to helping the workforce bound students, but I would like to accelerate this. As a business owner, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of having a skilled workforce equipped for various career paths, not just traditional college routes.

My experiences in the business world fuel my passion for enhancing our Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. I believe that every student deserves the chance to explore their interests and develop practical skills that will serve them well in the workforce. As a member of the school board, I will advocate for the expansion and improvement of our CTE offerings, ensuring that they are relevant, accessible, and inclusive for all students.

My wife, Kristen, and I are both graduates of Poth and have built a life here in the district. We have four daughters attending Poth ISD as well, so I am heavily vested in making sure our tax dollars are spent wisely and we have a top-quality education program.

In conclusion, I ask for your support and your vote in the upcoming election. By embracing new opportunities for hands-on learning, we can better prepare our students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Ben Pruski

Byron Pfeifer, at-large

Well, hello. I am Byron Pfeifer and would appreciate your vote to join the Poth ISD Board of Trustees. I was born and raised in Nordheim, Texas, where I graduated as the Salutatorian but not in the top 10 percent of my class (only seven of us). I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Texas State University and then a Masters degree in Animal Nutrition from Angelo State University. In 2000, I began my 20- plus year career at Lyssy & Eckel Inc. My wife, Sara, and I have three children that attend Poth ISD, currently in High School and Junior High. I also serve as the Vice President of the Poth FFA Booster Club, the Treasurer for the Poth Shooting and Conservation Booster Club, and am on the board of directors for the Wilson County Junior Livestock show.

I have lived in Poth longer than I have anywhere else — 24 years. I am proud to live in a community where people pray together, work hard, and at the end of the day want the same thing — our community to be thriving. I don’t think what I want is any different than anyone else, but for our students to have an excellent education that creates a foundation academically, as well as incorporating real-life job skills. Leadership should be defined by a person’s values and integrity. This starts with the Administration, continues through the Educators, custodial, transportation, and ultimately leads to the students. The truth is, I do not have immediate solutions to any challenges that our school is facing, but I am committed to listening, learning, and helping to find solutions that help our students succeed.

Erika Urbanczyk, at-large

Poth ISD community, I want to thank you for your support as I complete my sixth year of service on the school board and announce my plans to run for a third term. My husband, Brad, who is a Poth graduate, and I both grew up in small communities and understand how unique and amazing it is. One of the reasons that we chose to raise our family in this community is because it supports the growth of the students in academics and extracurricular activities. I want to continue my commitment to partner with you in making this community as strong as it can be for our students. Everyone, including the city, local businesses, organizations, and parents play a vital role in the growth and success of our school district.

As a former educator, I bring a valuable perspective to the board. I understand what impact teachers, coaches, and administrators have on the lives of students. If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for both teachers and students, continue to maximize staff compensation to the best of the district’s ability, visualize a plan for growth, maintain current facilities, and focus on preparing our students for their future whether in college, trade school, or the workforce. Poth ISD students have amazing opportunities to be community leaders and I would like to continue my time as a school board member to help us all achieve these goals.

Scott Lyssy, at-large

I grew up in Poth and am a proud alumnus of Poth ISD. After college, I returned to Poth to live and raise my family. I believe we should treat everyone with dignity and respect; in return I expect the same.

Poth has always had conservative values. We teach our children at a young age to have respect for each other, for their elders, and for God. I am truly grateful to be part of this community.

The main issue I see facing Poth ISD is growth. It’s inevitable. People flock to good school districts. Poth is at max capacity and will need to grow in student capacity, which means new building, facilities, and funding.

I have complete faith and confidence in the current Board Members and if elected, I will work with them to see that the administration, faculty, and students have the resources they need to keep Poth great. I will also stand behind the administration and faculty so long as their decisions are for the betterment of Poth ISD and the community, regardless of the outside influences.

Falls City ISD board of trustees

Cathy Stolle, at-large

I am a retired educator with 33 years of service in a profession I still love — 26 of those serving Falls City. As a founding member of Falls City’s local chapter for the Association of Texas Professional Educators (ATPE), I currently serve as the region Treasurer and have served as a regional Vice- President, President, and on the state Board of Directors. Each of these brings a unique perspective to my experience. I’m also a member of the Retired Teachers organization and serve on my church council, bringing some new insights. My biggest asset is that as a mother of four children which also serve as educators/administrators and firefighters/ paramedics — all are Falls City graduates — I feel this only enhances my perspective and what I can bring to the board.

Challenges:

•State requirements. As a retired educator, I can give the district a perspective to assist navigating the best way support the teachers/staff. Ensuring they have what they need is one of my main purposes in running for this position.

•Keeping/hiring highly qualified staff. We must strive to meet our students’ needs every day. Understanding what it needed in the classroom is something I bring to the table. I want to be able to provide our students, staff, and community with a place of support for what they need.

•Financial stability. We must ensure that we are using our resources wisely both in and out of the classroom. Safety must factor into all we do as well, as ensuring that our students have what they need to ensure their successful future in whatever path they choose. Smart planning for the entire needs of the district must be done.

I believe I can give many ideas as to help our schools run efficiently while planning for the bright future that Falls City has.

Donny Moy, at-large

Hello, I am Donny Moy, and I am running for a second term as a school board member position for the Falls City District. I am a Falls City graduate and have lived in the district my entire life. I currently have two boys attending Falls City Schools — a fourth grader and a senior.

If elected, I will continue to do my part as a school board member and strive to establish transparency between the board members, the school, and the community. I will always, like in the past, do my part as a member to bring the concerns to the forefront and help in the resolution process. As a taxpayer, especially in these unforeseen times, I value the way my money is spent and will also value yours with all budget concerns and issues that will and have arisen in the past. I am committed to the Faculty, which is the foundation in the development for Academics, leadership, and for all our children. Together, we can succeed in achieving our goals and accomplish great things for all.

Thank you and God Bless.

St. Hedwig City Council

Doretta Murray, Place 4

I have called St. Hedwig home for more than 60 years.

After attending city council meetings for over the past five years, and engaged with the community of St. Hedwig, I was honored to be appointed as a council member in October to fill a midterm vacancy. Now with the election approaching, I am eager to officially earn your vote and continue serving our city in this role. My deep roots and extensive experience in our community have equipped me with a unique perspective on the needs and future direction of St. Hedwig.

It’s more important than ever to uphold the development plans set forth by previous leadership while ensuring they evolve and reflect our current and future changes. I am dedicated to promoting controlled development that respects our heritage and enhances our community’s quality of life.

As we move towards the election on May 4, I humbly request your support to help continue fostering and thriving, resilient St. Hedwig.

Born, raised, and here to stay.

May 4, 2024 Election