GALVESTON — Voters in Galveston will choose three council members next month.

Republican Douglas T. Kimball faces Democrat Michael W. Baldwin in Ward 1, Republican Patricia (Pat) Gunnell faces Democrat Kenneth D. Cripe in Ward 2 and Republican Jim Kinch faces Democrat Jim Buettner in Ward 4.

Ward 1

What do you see as the issues in this campaign?

Baldwin: Did not respond.

Kimball: As the Republican candidate for Galveston’s Ward 1 councilman, I believe the first issue in this campaign is to assure that the town council is accountable to the taxpaying citizens of Galveston. Council members should represent the people in their respective wards and not their own personal or business interests.

Citizens should have a voice in the governmental process and be allowed to have their concerns or questions properly and orderly addressed at all regularly scheduled town council meetings.

Second, since we have lost so many businesses during the last administration’s tenure, I desire to see more businesses/industries locate in the Galveston area, thereby creating more jobs for the people of Galveston and more reasons for families to move to Galveston, thereby stimulating our economy and bringing about population and financial growth. By using the skills and expertise of our local merchants group and its resources along with other citizens of Galveston, I believe we can locate these businesses/industries and start the process of our “road to recovery.”

And third, sidewalks throughout the town are buckling, crumbling or non-existent, and many streets have no curbs, creating unsafe conditions for our citizens and their children. Through aggressively seeking available grant opportunities and/or other possible options, I believe we can enhance the safety and welfare of Galveston’s citizens.

Why should voters chose you?

Baldwin: Did not respond.

Kimball: I believe that my leadership and problem-solving experience as a former military officer, Delphi supervisor, pastor, Galveston PTA President, and current owner/part owner of three Galveston-based businesses help to assure the voters of Galveston that they are getting a proven leader for this position.

My financial experience as the CFO for four Galveston-based businesses and the bookkeeper for one Noblesville business assure the voters of Galveston that they are voting for someone who understands how the financial process works and the ramifications of financial decision-making.

I have lived in Galveston for over 41 years, raised four children here in our great school system, have strong family values, support our highly skilled and professional police and volunteer fire departments, support our Town’s employees, and sincerely desire to see Galveston become a healthy, safe and growing community again.

Ward 2

What do you see as the issues in this campaign?

Cripe: Did not respond.

Gunnell: As the Ward 2 Republican candidate for town council, I see one of the major issues is focusing on keeping local government engaged and responsible to the concerns of the citizens of the community. I want residents’ input to be received and valued. In the past this has not always been the case. All residents should have the opportunity to question their elected officials and be treated with respect.

If all residents and businesses have a voice, then the town council can make decisions that will be the most beneficial to the entire community. The town must improve in the areas of business development and retention. Incentives could be offered to entice businesses to locate here and those that are already here, to stay. It is time for a fresh face and fresh ideas.

Why should voters choose you? 

Cripe: Did not respond.

Gunnell: I may be new to the political arena, but not to leadership positions. I listen with an open mind and analyze the facts, before reaching a decision. I believe the residents of Galveston deserve to be represented by someone who will place the best interest of the residents above everything else. I will be vigilant in monitoring the town’s budget and the economy to ensure that we are operating within our means, while continuing to provide the highest level of services to the residents. In order to accomplish this, we need fair, honest and dedicated leaders who are able to communicate effectively with the residents of Galveston. I will work hard to ensure our tax dollars are used appropriately to provide a safe, healthy and vibrant community that is beneficial to all Galveston residents.                                                           

My husband, Larry, is a life-long resident of Galveston, and I moved here from the Walton area when we were married 35 years ago. We have raised our family here and know the benefits of a small town community with the safety and security it has to offer. I wish to see continued support of our local fire and police departments to provide the safest community in the area.

I would truly appreciate your vote on Nov.. 8, and thank you, in advance, for the privilege of representing you.

Ward 4

What do you see as the issues in this campaign?

Buettner: Did not respond.

Kinch: Being Galveston’s Republican candidate for town council, Ward 4, the issues I see are trust, growth and communication.

Trust: In order to have an effective town council, trust has to come from the community. The members of the town council can only win the community’s trust with positive leadership skills and being accountable to the residents.

Growth: Growth in Galveston does not exist. Nearby communities have prospered and along with that prosperity has come new job opportunities and improvements to their towns. The current town council is responsible for the declining growth in Galveston. This is evident by the loss of many businesses, some of which had been mainstays in town for several years.

Communication: The “voice” of the community needs to be heard. A good town council must listen to the residents. Residents should be heard during town council meetings. Many times that is not the case.

Why should voters choose you?

Buettner: Did not respond.

Kinch: I am someone who will work hard for the residents of Galveston and strive to make it a place where people once again take pride in living. I will also support the local police and fire departments, to help ensure the safety of our homes and children.

The residents of Galveston deserve a “road to recovery.” A road paved with fresh ideas and hope. Vote Jim Kinch, town council Ward 4. I appreciate your vote Nov. 8.