To inform readers about the candidates seeking their votes on the November ballot, the San Antonio Report asked all candidates to answer the following questions. We edited answers for clarity, not substance or grammar, and we did not fact-check responses. We restricted responses to 200 words for each question.
Read other candidates’ answers here.
Party:
Republican
Incumbent?
No
Link to campaign website:
Age:
55
Education background/degrees earned:
BA in Communications from Trinity University
Current occupation, employer, or job title:
President and CEO of The DeBerry Group
Previous elected offices held and/or sought:
Candidate for mayor (2009)
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for the office you are seeking?
I have over 25 years of experience starting and running two successful businesses. I know what a business needs to grow and to produce jobs and opportunity for Bexar County residents. I’m running to bring my results-driven approach to government to cut wasteful spending, get government “back to basics,” and make sure tax dollars are used effectively.
What three issues do you feel are most important to voters in Bexar County?
While I am out block-walking the number one issue is taxes. I hear constantly that appraisals are out of control, some constituents have seen up to 20% increases. Residents outside the city have major concerns about public safety and response times. Precisely because I have been endorsed by the San Antonio Police Officers Association and the Deputy Sheriff’s Association, I will push for increased community policing. Thirdly, ability to get around is a major concern. The county has a lot of control of large Infrastructure projects. We appeal to the state and federal government for projects ranging from Blanco Road, 1604, 281, I-10, and Wurzbach Parkway.
If elected, what would be your top priorities after taking office?
I will immediately begin working with legislators to reform the appraisal process. The term coincides with the start of the biannual legislative session. I have already discussed possible legislation with members of the county delegation – including having an elected vs. an appointed board at the Appraisal District. I want be the county appointee to the appraisal board. New appraised values will be sent out by the tax office within the first few months of the term. I want to represent the taxpayer on the board.
How has the coronavirus pandemic shaped your priorities?
The COVID economy has completely changed how business will be done. Responsible budgeting is needed since the county is facing large shortfalls. Now is the time to do needed infrastructure projects, instead of legacy projects. We need to put people back to work in shovel-ready projects.
For incumbents: What do you consider your most significant accomplishments in office? What would you change?
N/A
For non-incumbents: What, if anything, would you do differently from the current officeholder?
Precinct 3 has never had a field office; I plan to open one. I will be a full-time commissioner and as such I want a place closer to the constituents’ homes to meet. I will be putting at least 50-60 hours a week into the job. Most of that will be spent with residents of Precinct 3.
