Horseshoe Bay candidates debate issues
Horseshoe Bay city council candidates debated issues at a forum Wednesday. From left to right are incumbent David Pope, planning and zoning commissioner Jerry Gray and challenger Donald Beeman.
By Emily Hilley-Sierzchula
Three of four candidates for the three open seats on the Horseshoe Bay City Council debated city issues before an audience of local citizens and the existing council during a forum Wednesday, Oct. 8, hosted by the property owner’s association.
Tom D’Arcy, president of the Horseshoe Bay Proper Owner's Association (HSBPOA) board of directors, moderated the event. He explained that candidate Craig Haydon (current mayor pro-tem) was unable to attend because of a grandchild on the way.
The candidates featured in the debate – incumbent David Pope, planning and zoning commissioner Jerry Gray and challenger Donald Beeman – did not know in advance any of the questions they would be asked.
Most of the questions were written by audience members.
Each candidate had his chance to delineate his individual qualifications for a city council post, and each emphasized community involvement and experience running businesses.
Candidates were asked their opinions on everything from water weeds to growth of the city. “Quality of life” is a phrase that came up often, referring to the status that many in the city seek to maintain.
With the Beacon of Light on the Arts gala coming up next week to raise money for the Horseshoe Bay Lighthouse, citizens asked candidates for their opinion about city support for restoration efforts, which could cost as much as $90,000.
“It’s disappointing it’s been allowed to deteriorate,” Gray said. “But it’s a Horseshoe Bay icon that should be maintained, so I support restoration efforts.”
Pope said he would vote the same way he did at the June council meeting in which the council was divided on whether to use city funds to help restore the structure, which is maintained by the HSBPOA.
For the full story, see Friday's Highlander.
