top of page

Managing Growth & Infrastructure.  Celina’s comprehensive plan warns that infrastructure and services such as roads, water, sewer, drainage and parks are expensive to build and will be in high demand as the city expands. How will you ensure that roads, drainage, water/sewer systems and public spaces keep pace with the city’s projected population growth without sacrificing fiscal responsibility? What strategies would you use to maintain Celina’s small‑town character while accommodating thousands of new residents?

Fiscal Policy & Taxation.  The city has lowered its property‑tax rate for four consecutive years, yet rising property values mean homeowners still pay more. Meanwhile, officials hope new retailers will increase sales‑tax revenue. What is your philosophy regarding property‑tax rates and revenue diversification? Would you continue lowering the tax rate, and how would you balance property‑tax relief with the need to fund public services?

Water Supply & Conservation.  In January 2026 the city discussed making lawn irrigation optional and limiting turf in new developments, noting that roughly half of peak‑season water use comes from irrigation. Lake Ralph Hall is expected to expand regional supply in the next few years. How should Celina secure a long‑term water supply, and what role should conservation ordinances (such as xeriscaping or turf limits) play? How would you engage builders and residents to support these measures?

Public Safety & Emergency Services.  Calls for police and fire services are growing 10–20 % annually, prompting plans for a fourth fire station and a new dispatch center. With nearly half of the general fund going to public safety, how will you ensure adequate staffing, equipment and response times as the city expands eastward and northward? What innovations or partnerships could improve public safety without unsustainable spending?

Transportation & Mobility.  City leaders have considered converting downtown streets from asphalt to concrete within 10–15 years, a project that could cost $85 million and force other road improvements to be delayed. How should Celina prioritise road spending between downtown reconstruction, outer‑loop connections, and neighborhood streets? What is your view on multimodal options such as sidewalks, bike lanes and public transit?

Downtown Vision.  The Downtown Master Plan aims to preserve historic charm while adding modern amenities, including a multi‑story parking garage and entertainment district. What is your vision for downtown Celina in 10–20 years? How would you balance redevelopment with historic preservation, and what policies would you advocate regarding building height, density, parking and public art?

Economic Development & Retail Mix.  Celina’s strategic plan emphasises attracting both major retailers and high‑tech businesses while supporting mom‑and‑pop shops. The plan also describes small businesses as the “heartbeat” of the community and calls for business‑friendly policies. How will you ensure that big‑box stores like Walmart, Costco or Home Depot coexist with locally owned businesses? What tools (e.g., zoning, incentives, façade grants) will you use to create a vibrant and diverse commercial base?

Housing Affordability & Diversity.  As development accelerates, there is concern about housing affordability and the availability of diverse housing types. What policies would you pursue to provide a range of housing options (entry‑level, “missing middle,” senior housing) while avoiding unchecked sprawl? Would you support density bonuses or inclusionary zoning to encourage affordable units, and how would you address potential pushback from existing residents?

Open Space, Parks & Agricultural Heritage.  The comprehensive plan calls for preserving natural land and Celina’s agricultural roots. How will you balance development with farmland preservation and the creation of parks and greenbelts? Would you champion any agricultural or agritourism initiatives to celebrate Celina’s heritage and support local farmers?

Financing Growth (PIDs, TIRZ & Other Tools).  Celina prefers Public Improvement Districts to finance infrastructure and discourages Tax‑Increment Reinvestment Zones unless they provide significant economic benefits. Yet the city already has TIRZ #8 with millions in captured tax increment funds. What is your stance on using PIDs, TIRZ, municipal utility districts or bonds to fund roads, utilities and public facilities? Under what circumstances would you create a new TIRZ or other special district?

Downtown Parking & Transit.  The downtown centre project includes a four‑story parking garage to provide nearly 400 spaces. Do you believe structured parking is sufficient to meet future demand? How will you manage downtown parking for residents, employees and visitors, and would you consider alternative transit (e‑shuttles, ride‑share hubs) to reduce congestion?

Sales‑Tax Strategy & Economic Resilience.  City staff hope sales‑tax revenue will eventually surpass development‑fee revenue as major retailers open. What strategies will you use to broaden the sales‑tax base (e.g., attracting entertainment venues, tourism, tech companies)? How will you safeguard Celina’s finances from over‑reliance on any single sector?

Community Engagement & Transparency.  Rapid growth can strain residents’ trust in city government. How will you communicate with residents about major decisions (zoning changes, utility projects, water restrictions) and ensure transparency in budgeting and planning? What methods will you use to gather input from long‑time residents, newcomers and under‑represented groups?

Regional Cooperation & Infrastructure.  Celina’s growth depends on regional partners such as the Upper Trinity Regional Water District and state agencies for road and water projects. How would you work with neighboring cities, the county and regional entities to coordinate infrastructure, manage cross‑jurisdictional traffic, and ensure Celina’s interests are represented in regional planning?

Personal Priorities & Vision.  Beyond these specific issues, what three priorities would define your administration? How does your background prepare you to lead a rapidly growing city, and what long‑term legacy do you hope to leave for Celina?

Closing Statement Do you have any final statements you'd like to make to the residents of the City of Celina? And finally, why should voters support you instead of your opponent(s)?

bottom of page