Glenn Heights Mayoral Special Election sees ousted mayor running for old seat

GLENN HEIGHTS – It is not every day a mayor in one of the Best Southwest cities gets ousted in a long drawn out hearing continuing midnight.

Nor is it every day that same mayor resigns just seconds before the vote to oust him is made.

And now, in a special election along with four other candidates, former Mayor Leon Tate is running for the seat he was removed from back in the fall.

It was not surprising when the Glenn Heights City Hall saw a standing-room only crowd as residents filed in to see just which candidate a fit for the city would be.

There was no doubt the candidates, Tate; Mayor Pro Tem Tony Bradley; former city council member Harry Garrett and newbies Robert Rodrigues and Sheena Morgan all agreed change was needed in Glenn Heights.

At the recent candidates’ forums, of which there have been two, the candidates explained through a series of questions why he or she would be the best person to take the vacant seat.

Early voting has already begun for the special election at the end of the month.

From now until Jan. 22 residents can vote during the appointed times or vote on the Special Election Day of Jan. 26.

When asked about top three priorities each candidate spoke with fervor. Bradley cited infrastructure as one of his important themes.

He also talked about the importance of cooperation with sister cities and mentioned budget limitations as being a problem in the past.

His words were significant when he said, “Don’t confuse my passion with anger.”

Rodriguez mentioned sidewalks as a priority also mentioning a less expensive water bill.

He said he believed more trees in the park would benefit residents.

Also, during his time to speak Rodriguez brought up the police department and said they have big hearts, which he likes.

He discussed the importance of collaboration on the city council and working to improve the city’s image with an idea of being humble without bringing ego in for the betterment of the city.

Garret talked about leadership by example and said he wanted more funds for the parks budget.

He also wanted to look at beautifying the entrance to Glenn Heights and added he is uniquely qualified to lead and create cohesiveness.

During Tate’s time to speak he brought up the DART program as well as safe walking trails and a multi-use facility for the future of the city.

Morgan discussed a look at new business to the city and said lack of communication is what she sees as being a problem to overcome and strong leadership.

She talked about team building and her ability to facilitate that as the mayor. Morgan also said she is eager to make Glenn Heights as beautiful as the cities north and south.

When asked how each would balance family, career and the city council Garrett began by stating he has his family support.

The other council members agreed their families were supportive of their run for the mayoral seat with all looking at a positive future for Glenn Heights.