Leander - Liberty Hill Edition | October 2024

Election

BY ANNA MANESS

KEY: D Democrat L Libertarian R Republican *Incumbent

Williamson County commissioner, Precinct 3

Williamson County sheriff

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

I have served as commissioner [for] Precinct 3 since 2006, demonstrating strong leadership and problem-solving skills rooted in conservative values. My experience as a CPA allows me to use my skills to help balance the budget and pay down debt, saving taxpayers over $100 million.

My primary goals include promoting responsible growth, enhancing mental health services and maintaining fiscal responsibility. I aim to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with our expanding population while supporting community initiatives that prioritize public safety and access to essential services for all residents.

For 39 years, I have protected and served Williamson County, including 21 years as a Texas Ranger. I have the varied experience needed to improve public safety, increase collaboration and lead [the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office] to ensure that Williamson County is a safe place to live and raise a family.

I will run a sheriff’s office that is tough on crime [and] accountable to the public; increase cooperation with local, state and federal partners; improve transparency within the community; focus on new programs to protect our community’s most vulnerable populations; and prevent future failed state jail inspections.

Valerie Covey* Occupation & experience: Precinct 3 county commissioner, certified public accountant www.valeriecovey.com

Matthew Lindemann Occupation & experience: retired Texas Ranger, 39 years as a law enforcement officer, Williamson County Precinct 3 constable www.lindemannforwilcosheriff.com

R

R

Since getting a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Texas and an MBA and engineering master’s from University of Michigan, I’ve worked and traveled throughout the world. I started as a volunteer for the Libertarian Party but advanced to the national executive director position. I’ll do my best for you.

I want to cut taxes and spending enough so that the check you write for your property taxes gets smaller even when property values go up. We can do that by focusing on core services, cutting others, eliminating corporate welfare and cutting expenses on non- violent drug offenses.

I am the best candidate for this seat because I am already elected by the Williamson County voters as sheriff. I have been employed by the sheriff’s office since 1993, except for the previous administration of Robert Chody. I have worked in every aspect of the sheriff’s office.

I will continue to operate within my budget and create cost savings measures like I have done in the last four years, saving taxpayers millions of dollars. I will continue to keep the office transparent and constitutionally grounded.

Wes Benedict Occupation & experience: former Libertarian Party executive director, manufacturing engineer, countertop manufacturing business owner www.wesbenedict.com

Mike Gleason* Occupation & experience: law enforcement professional for 31 years, Williamson County sheriff (2021-present) www.sheriffgleasonwilliamson county.com

L

D

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

HYMEADOW 12611 Hymeadow (512) 506-8401

NORTH 620 10601 N FM 620 (512) 506-8316

CEDAR PARK 13530 Ronald Reagan Blvd (512) 986-7681

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