Early voting begins Tuesday in March primary election

The Jacksboro Herald-Gazette provided the candidates in the upcoming March primary election, in races in which there is more than one candidate, with questionnaires to fill out to let the citizens know a little more about their choices.

Each candidate received the same questionnaire via email, and their answers are provided below in ballot order.

Answers were limited to 200 words per question, and edited down if they exceeded that amount.

If a candidate in a contested race is not included, it is because they did not respond to a request for submission or did not submit a questionnaire in time for publication. If no photo is included, or not all questions are answered, it is because they were not provided by the candidate who made the submission.

Polling locations

Early voting begins Tuesday, Feb. 17 and runs through Friday, Feb. 27.

Voters can cast their ballots early at the Jack County Courthouse, room 104 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 17-20; between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21; between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22; and between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 23-27.
Election Day is Tuesday, March 3. 

Polling locations in Jack County are:
• Jack County Courthouse, room 104; 100 North Main Street, Jacksboro.
• Bryson Senior Citizens Building; 201 South College Street, Bryson.
• Jack County Fair Barn; 1072 Highway 59, Jacksboro.
• Perrin Church of Christ; 105 West Eberhart Street, Perrin.

Ballots by mail must be returned by Tuesday, March 3 if not postmarked, or by Wednesday, March 4 if postmarked on election day.
Sample ballots are available online for the Republican and Democratic primary elections. For more election information visit the county’s elections webpage at jackcounty.org or the Texas Secretary of State website at sos.state.tx.us.
 

District Judge, 271st Judicial District

Paul Belew

Current Occupation
I am a trial attorney.

Family
I am divorced with one son who is 28 years and prosecutes felonies in Florida.  I grew up Catholic (from my mom), yet I am now a Baptist as was my father.  I just like that Christian religion philosophy better.

Education
Texas Wesleyan School of Law  - Fort Worth, Texas; Juris Doctorate Degree, May, 1995 (N/K/A Texas A & M School of Law)
North Texas State University - Denton, Texas; Bachelor of Arts, Major in Political Science, December 1987
University of Texas- Austin; Freshman, University of Texas at Austin 1982 - 1983

Objectives
I believe Jack County deserves a judge who knows this community inside and out, respects our values, and understands the courtroom. I’ve practiced law in Texas for over 30 years. My focus is on state and federal criminal defense, although I practiced in a broad spectrum of legal disciplines, including family law. This courtroom is not new to me. It’s where I’ve spent much of my professional life.

Over the years, I have learned being a good judge is not about politics or making headlines. It is about knowing the law, listening carefully, and making fair, steady and impartial decisions. My faith, through the fruits of my actions, has taught me the importance of honesty, humility, and doing what is right. Jack County needs a judge with experience, common sense, and the right temperament. I am ready to serve in that capacity. My objective is to be a fair and impartial Judge that determines disputes on a case by case basis.  Remarks such as I will always be hard on crime is irresponsible and is against the Judge’s oath; however, it is certainly an option in a case that deserves delivering a message for the safety of Jack County citizens.

Qualifications
I have tried probably over 200 contested jury and/or judge hearings since being licensed in 1995. I have helped clients at the Wise County Behavioral Unit until it was disbanded. My assistance there was with clients with mental health issues. I still do help, however, in a different setting. I bring experience, integrity and a knowledge of the overall judicial duties that include but are certainly not limited just to deciding cases in court. My resume reflects my experience as such:

I am admitted to numerous jurisdictions to practice law, yet have always gravitated to Jack and Wise County mainly. I have always helped with the mentally ill through the court system. It is a passion of mine. Mental health services are under served here and that should be addressed with the cooperation of other departments. Honestly, I have the most experience locally and feel I am the best qualified candidate to usher in a new era of leadership.

Benefit to voters
If elected I would bring local experience to the bench. I was born in Decatur, Texas in 1963. My dad and mother raised me on a diary and cattle farm. Some say that is being a good ole boy and I have been criticized for that yet other candidates can say “deep roots” and not be so criticized. The fact that I know the Wise County and Jack County Courthouse like the back of my hand is because I am a trial lawyer bringing the experience and integrity to Jack County that will be so sorely needed. Both Jack and Wise County are experiencing growth at an exponential rate. Jack County needs a judge that due to really no one’s fault will be able to address a huge backlog in cases that has already developed. The 271st is primarily a criminal and civil court, unlike what it has been betrayed in forums. This Court does handle family law but it is de minimis compared to the civil and criminal docket. This Court has a mixed docket the first Friday of each month that I attend and participate in as often as I have cases set.

Major issues
Number one issue I will address is making sure justice is handled efficiently while keeping our community safe. When cases drag on, it affects victims, families, law enforcement, and taxpayers. Countywide growth affects the Court system more than people realize. Rules dictate that the district judge oversee the Auditor’s Office as well as the Probation Office in this vast period of growth. Some issues cannot be fixed overnight.  Punishment should be set on a case by case basis, however, the judge or jury has the ability to consider that FULL range of punishment.
Secondly I will keep the docket moving and make sure cases are handled promptly and fairly. The 271st District Court is NOT mainly a family law court; on the contrary the numbers supplied by the State OCA show the exact opposite. Cases need to be moved, yet still decided fairly and impartially.
Thirdly, the 271st Judicial Judge does not only hear and decide cases. I would work hard to see that more grant money can be attained at no expense to the citizens to help the County Auditor’s Office and Probation Office. The Judge is also on call 24/7 for warrant service. I will be accessible at all times that I am able.

Andrew Lloyd

Current Occupation
Attorney & Counselor at Law, Certified Mediator

Family
I am married to my beautiful wife, IngaLynn, and we’re celebrating our 28th Anniversary this month! We have four children, ages 26-21.  Our eldest daughter, Gabriella, is married to Adam, who is seeking his Ph.D. in Sports Psychology.  They’ve brought us our first granddaughter, Charlotte, who’s an absolute delight. Our eldest son, Lachland, is married to Riley, and is preparing to join the Air Force.  They’ve brought us our first grandson, Ledger, and we can’t get enough of him.  Our third child, Lillian, is pursuing Nursing; and our fourth child, Maximillian, is intent on becoming a Firefighter.  Excepting God only, there is nothing more important than family.

Education
Doctor of Jurisprudence - Texas Tech University of Law; Class Speaker for Graduation, Dean’s List, Officer in International Honor Society – Phi Delta Phi, Member of the Federalist Society
Bachelor of Arts in English – University of Texas-Arlington; Summa Cum Laude, Member of two National Honor Societies – Alpha Chi & Golden Key, Vice President, English Honor Society – Sigma Tau Delta
Longstanding member of the College of the State Bar of Texas – Continuing Legal Education

Objectives
My objective is to serve the community as an impartial and fair Judge, upholding the pure letter of our United States’ Constitution and the Constitution of the Great State of Texas, together with the accompanying laws, rules, and statutes promulgated by our Texas Legislature and governing bodies.   I will maintain the integrity, respect, honesty, and decorum this position requires.  We will move cases with efficiency and expediency, while providing an opportunity of equal access to justice and due process for all individuals who step into its walls.  The rule of law requires swift resolution, balanced with grace and practicality, and particular insight and intelligence – discernment – is requisite to make such distinctions.  My goal is to provide decisive conflict resolution with precision by exercising the wisdom, impartiality, and objectivity I’ve gained over nearly a quarter century in the practice of law, as a litigator, mediator, arbitrator, speaker, mentor, advocate, and strategic trainer.  I wish to devote my time and talents to serve the public trust, in honoring justice, and preserving the sanctity of our God-given and unalienable rights.

Qualifications  
I bring multidisciplinary legal experience, being well-versed in the law over which this Court presides, including family matters, civil litigation, and criminal law, such as contracts, divorces, property rights, debt disputes, CPS, personal injury, probate, employment, felonies and misdemeanors.  I have handled thousands of cases in thousands of hearings and trials, in front of Judges and Juries.  I am a former Assistant District Attorney, and prosecuted cases for the State of Texas for years.  I’m also a certified mediator, appointed and hired by the local Courts and attorneys to solve cases outside of the courtroom, saving litigants thousands of dollars and hours, freeing up Court dockets - saving taxpayers money.  The District Courts frequently appoint me to serve as ad litem and amicus attorney, specialized roles to be the “eyes and ears” of the Judge in complex cases, distilling facts and evidence, another cost- and time-saving measure in which very few attorneys are trusted.  I have been peer-nominated as a Texas Super Lawyer for over a decade, an accolade for only the top 5% of lawyers.  I literally train and mentor other attorneys, with State Bar accreditation, in areas such as cross examination, evidence presentation, and jury selection.

Benefit to voters
With my election, the voters can be confident they will have an individual who is ready on Day One to take on the heavy responsibilities of this Court.  They will have assurance that a man who loves God, family, and the laws of our great country, and the resolve of our community and its forebears, stands at the helm.  If we do not have respect for the law within the walls of our courts, we will have lawlessness without.  I will consider the full range of punishment for offenders and protect our citizens by making determinations that follow the rule of law explicitly, holding individuals accountable for their actions.  I will preside in meekness, with reserved strength, and uphold the highest ideals of our land and country.  I will not allow encroachments of political persuasion or outside agendas to influence my rulings.  I will be kind, courteous, and respectful, giving each qualified litigant and counsel a voice, as required by law and precedent.  The voters can be assured that my comprehensive and practical legal background, coupled with my knack of working with the “every man,” will move the caseload quickly, while resolving conflict judiciously.

Major issues
A major issue I would confront is the caseload backlog in Wise and Jack Counties.  Because I am uniquely qualified to handle essentially 100% of the type of cases that are handled in this Court – family, civil, and criminal – I can quickly set hearings and require the attorneys to proceed without delay.  A second issue facing Jack County is population growth, often bringing with it civil and criminal unrest.  I will work with our local law enforcement officers, our County and District Attorneys, and elected officials, with whom I already have a great relationship, to ensure we consider the problems from all angles.  I will maintain a transparency in my role so that this bench is both approachable and pragmatic in its determinations of law.  Thirdly, I hope to institute specialized statutory courts as set out in our governmental and judicial codes, providing assistance for those with mental health crises, first time offenders, and our Veterans.  My brother is a retired Lt. Colonel in the Air Force, and I have been instrumental in these programs for years.  I will continue the fight for those who are less fortunate and who have served our nation with honor and distinction.

Jack County Commissioner, Precinct 2

Ronald Fitzgerald

Current Occupation
Self-Employed at Fitzgerald Services

Family
I have been married to Anna for 43 years, and we have two children. Callie and her husband Blu live in Waco, and Jimmie and his wife Sarah live in Fort Sumner, New Mexico. We also have three grandchildren: Slate, Juliana Mae, and Della Ruth.

Education
I graduated from Jacksboro High School in 1971, and I attended Weatherford College and Tarleton State University.

Objectives
I believe that Precinct 2 will have a high growth rate given the proximity to the Metroplex. I know that there are challenges when population growth puts pressure on county services, and I want to be proactive in taking on these challenges. This means that we need to stay on top of our roads and make sure that we have resources and equipment ready for routine maintenance and issues that come up unexpectedly. We can be prepared for this, and I am committed to being a good steward of county resources. My experience as a business owner has also taught me that listening to the customer and working for their interests is extremely important. As a County Commissioner, listening to the residents of Precinct 2 would be one of my top priorities. The buck would stop with me. I would work hard for the people who live in this precinct, and I would represent your interests on the Commissioner’s Court. This means listening to your insights on any new opportunities that are presented to the County and working to make sure that any potential new ventures are good partners for the County, not just abstract promises.

Qualifications
I am a life-long resident of Jack County, and I have been self-employed for 40+ years. We owned Jacksboro Pump & Specialty, an oilfield supply store, and when it sold, we started Fitzgerald Services, a dirt construction and right of way clearing company. I have extensive experience working directly with customers, creating and balancing budgets, bidding jobs, managing employees, and operating heavy equipment. I am skilled in road construction, specifically creating and maintaining roads and keeping equipment in good working condition by being proactive on maintenance and repairs. I have also worked with many equipment operators as a supervisor and mentor, and I am able to run the equipment and to support and train employees in best operating practices. I have also served on several boards in Jack County: Friends of Fort Richardson, Jacksboro Chamber of Commerce, Jack County Fair Association, and the Jack County Museum Board. My experience as a life-long resident, business owner, and active member in the community makes me a strong candidate, and I am ready to put this skillset to use in public service as the County Commissioner of Precinct 2.

Benefit to voters
My years of experience in business and as an active community member set me apart in the Precinct 2 Commissioner race. The most immediate need people often think of is road maintenance, and this is something I’ve done firsthand as an operator and owner for decades. I have the skills to know how to keep the roads and equipment in good working condition and to train County employees to be on top of a regular schedule for road maintenance and repairs. Equally important is that I also have decades of problem-solving and collaboration experience. I am thinking about what is known and what is to come in Precinct 2, and I will be prepared to take on these challenges with transparency and a level head. I am committed to doing the research, listening to residents, and learning from other parts of the State to make the most informed decisions I can on issues that will impact the folks I would represent. I would work for you, and I would bring this expertise to public service as your County Commissioner.

Major issues

I want to start by giving credit to the Salazar family for all they have given to this precinct and the good foundation that we have to build on because of their leadership. With this foundation, some of the issues I have on my radar are:

Roads – I know that road maintenance and repairs are at the top of many peoples’ concerns. I have the experience necessary to ensure that county resources are used responsibly and that county roads and equipment are in good working condition.
Transparency – I want to emphasize communication and provide educational opportunities for residents to learn about what’s happening at the precinct and County level. I will work collaboratively to responsibly budget and manage county resources, resources that I know come from your hard-earned tax dollars.

Planning for the future – Precinct 2 is going to be a high-growth area since its closest to the metroplex. We cannot tell landowners what to do with their property or who to sell to, but as a County, we can make decisions about how to partner with new opportunities to benefit the County and to hold businesses accountable so that they are good County partners.

Bob Ricks

Current Occupation
Supervisor, Grader Operator, Commercial truck driver for Jack County Precinct 2

Family
Wife- Dana Ricks
Daughter- Micaela Ricks
Son- Carter Ricks
Son- Kaden Ricks

Education
K-12

Objectives
My objectives as Commissioner of Precinct 2 are simple: keep our roads safe, passable, and built to last, while being a good steward of taxpayer dollars. One of my first priorities would be standardizing speed limits, road signage, and delineators across the precinct. Clear, consistent signage improves safety for residents, school buses, emergency vehicles, and visitors who may not know our roads. It also helps reduce confusion and accidents, especially on rural and county-maintained roads.

Another major objective is maintaining and improving water flow. Poor drainage is one of the biggest enemies of our roads. By improving ditches, culverts, and road profiles, we can move water where it needs to go, reduce washouts, and extend the life of our roads. Addressing drainage issues early saves money compared to constant repairs after damage has already occurred.

I also want to focus on completing major problem projects that have been put off for too long. One example is the creek on Willow Point, which is actively threatening to cut out the road. These kinds of issues affect safety, access, and emergency response and need to be addressed before they become failures.

Overall, my goal is to apply practical experience, planning, and common sense to keep Precinct 2 moving forward.

Qualifications
I have owned and operated 2 successful LLCs giving me experience on maintaining and growing a business as well as money management.

I have worked the last four years as an equipment operator and commercial truck driver for Precinct 2 which has also given me the opportunity to learn all the areas that need to be improved on around the precinct.

I have an unwavering work ethic and a common sense approach to problem solving.

Benefit to voters
Me being elected would benefit the voters by having a qualified, and approachable commissioner. I’m prepared to serve the people of this precinct and also be the voice of the people.

This precinct can’t have someone sitting on the sidelines trying to lead from an office. I believe it takes a working commissioner that’s in the field getting their hands dirty as a part of the crew, not just the “boss”.

Major issues
As of right now roads are being maintained at random or by severity sometimes leaving a road untouched for a long period of time. I would like to create and implement a schedule for county road maintenance so that all roads are on a rotation to be bladed or maintained at more regular and frequent intervals.

Signage around the precinct is another issue that can have a major impact on the efficiency of emergency services. All speed limit signs need to be updated and standardized, as well as road delineators (culvert and bridge markers)
Complete major road and bridge repairs that have been delayed or put off for far too long.

Mandy Estes Horn

Family
Family is very important to me. I am blessed with the support of a large family that was blended together when I married my high school sweetheart. We have three beautiful daughters. 2 are adults with children of their own and my youngest just turned 9. We also have 6 grandchildren and 3 bonus grandchildren.

Education
I graduated from Jacksboro High School, then attended Tarrant County College. I am a certified personal trainer specializing in Parkinson’s and MS, a certified life coach and have obtained various certifications in organizational improvements, marketing, and business management.

Objectives
I believe you should always strive to leave everything you do a little better than you found it. It would be my honor to represent our community as a whole. To bring precinct 2 together as we move forward. Developing strategies for a path forward that everyone in Jack County believes in.

I want to be accessible to my community and build the future together.  With that I will strive to develop and implement a better plan for road repairs and maintenance (making sure that all roads in precinct 2 get the attention they need) and keep the community informed with new growth coming to our community, making sure the community has the correct information available to them.

Qualifications
I have extensive experience running large scale projects with a background in sign construction. I worked as a community leader in North Richland Hills, so I understand the value of community relationships. I have owned my own business, handling all the accounting, planning and developing, and I recently played a vital role in the creation of a foundation company, granting me with vast amounts management experience.

Benefit to voters
I would bring clear communication and transparency to our community. I plan to build a quality team of individuals and together we first repair, not just maintain, all roads in Precinct 2.

Once this plan is in place and action is being taken I will turn my focus on the growth that is coming to our community and make it my mission to keep the community informed with factual information. I will not just be the commissioner, I will be their neighbor, their supporter or their protector. I will stand where the community needs me.

Major issues
1. Road Maintenance and Repairs
2. Communication and Transparency
3. Growth is Coming

I plan to be very involved in the research and ways that the growth that is coming our way to be as beneficial to our community as a whole as possible.