<<< Kasey Klepfer & Rose Brooks in the
Juneteenth Parade, San Marcos, June 21, 2008.

Democracy for Texas, Hays County, met at 6:45 on May 7, 2008, at Grin’s Restaurant. Betsy Singleton called the meeting to order and introduced Steve Klepfer.

Steve talked about his background and qualifications for County Commissioner for Precinct 3. If elected, he’d be the first Democrat elected to the post. The county population will triple in the near future. Handling the growth will require planning, an open process, and promotion of economic growth. Planning should be progressive, comprehensive, and realistic, particularly regarding traffic and capital improvement. Proposals should be properly vetted by voters. Process should be inclusive and involve both citizens and business owners to avoid decisions being made for political reasons. Economic growth should include business growth, instead of fighting development.  Business owners should be involved in city growth and development, and growth should be broadened to technology and professional sectors, instead of just retail and service.

Steve also addressed the criticism he’s received that as mayor of Wimberley he was too regulatory and opposed the RR 12 initiative. He said that the voters were not apprised of the RR 12 plans until they already were on the ballot. He thinks that Ranch Road 12 needs improvements but that a major highway such as 290 was not the appropriate solution for RR 12.

He emphasized his desire to bring professionalism back to the court and believes the court is becoming more Democratic and more progress-driven, which gives us a chance to prepare Hays County for the growth we’re about to experience. His opponent is Bill Conley.