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Bledsoe hopes for more economic success
By Chris Roark, croark@starlocalnews.com
Brandon Bledsoe has been a part of key decisions the Southlake City Council made in recent years to help it weather the country’s financial struggles.
And as this year’s council election approaches, Bledsoe hopes to be a part of the process for three more years.
Bledsoe announced last week that he will seek a second full term for Place 3 on the council. Election Day is May 11. He was initially elected in 2009 after John Terrell’s seat became open when he ran for mayor.
Bledsoe said one of the council’s accomplishments during his tenure has been guiding the city through the tough economic climate.
“Through consistent long term planning and a great city staff, we were able to maintain a high level of service through this period in addition to coming through in 2012 with a top AAA financial rating from both Fitch and S&P,” Bledsoe said. “Additionally, retailers once again occupied former vacant spaces and property values, when compared to the rest of North Texas, faired extremely well.”
Bledsoe said another key accomplishment made by the council was adopting a comprehensive gas drilling ordinance.
“All of us worked really hard on that,” Bledsoe said. “It’s a model ordinance for a lot of cities in North Texas, including Dallas. The truth will be told [on its effectiveness] if drilling permits are submitted in the years ahead. But I think we’re well positioned to protect the city while respecting property owners’ rights.”
Looking ahead, Bledsoe said he looks forward to the restoration of the Homestead Exemption, which will provide residents with an effective 1.5-cent tax rate reduction. The council approved that as part of its fiscal year budget in September.
He also said continuing efforts to build a solid economic base is important.
“I certainly look forward to enhancing our economic sustainability efforts in addition to building upon our strong fabric of community, neighborhoods, and families,” Bledsoe said.
Bledsoe is a 14-year resident and has served in a variety of volunteer roles for the city since 2004 including being the former president of Southlake Program for the Involvement of Neighborhoods (S.P.I.N.) and vice chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
He is also an active member of the Urban Land Institute North Texas District and member of its Urban Plan committee. He is a board member of Downtown Dallas, Inc. and former board member of The Real Estate Council.
Over the last 27 years, Brandon has worked in a variety of banking industry positions.
Candidates can file for a place on the ballot until 5 p.m. March 1. The last day to register to vote is April 11.
Early voting runs from April 29 through May 7.
Place 4 and Place 5 are also up for election. Place 5 incumbent Jeff Wang said he will not seek re-election. Place 4 incumbent Al Zito could not be reached for comment.
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