Incumbent Diane Hervol is being challenged by Travis Michell for Kyle City Council, District 1. We asked both candidates the following questions.
1. What prompted you to seek election/reelection?
It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Kyle over the last six years. Having lived in Kyle for the last 14 years, I am very passionate about my city and will do my best to represent the citizens of Kyle. Kyle citizens deserve someone who will work very hard to represent them and be their voice every day.
2. What do you bring to the table that your opponent doesn’t have?
I bring a glass that is full of experience! My experience includes service on: the Planning & Zoning Commission (2 terms); the Economic Development and Tourism Committee (4 years) and the Depot Board (5 years). I fought long and hard against the unfair water rates of the Monarch Water Company and participate in numerous civic organizations, including the Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW, Kyle Area Senior Zone, and my HOA. During my tenure on Council, I’ve gained extensive experience in working on city budgets, creating ordinances, establishing policies to guide our future growth and, most importantly, representing the concerns of the citizens. And, I shop locally and encourage others to do the same.
3. What are the three most pressing issues in your district and how will you alleviate them?
My district (Place 1) is an at large position that encompasses the entire city. First, we must address the maintenance and repair of Kyle’s infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks, water lines and expanding our wastewater capacity. Secondly, we must be fiscally responsible so our citizens are not over-burdened by the cost of providing for these essential services. This is a very tough balancing act and we must be careful not to add frivolous spending until we have accomplished our basic needs. Last, but not least, we must continue to attract more economic development.
5. Is Kyle managing the increasing growth? What would you do to help the city manage the growth?
Kyle is managing the growth to some extent. Kyle’s biggest challenge to managing our increasing growth, will be to do so within our budgetary constraints. Updating our ordinances to meet the ever-changing demands of businesses and developers is absolutely critical. There are a number of benefits Kyle can reap by incorporating smart growth strategies and revising our ordinances to allow greater flexibility and diversity of housing types and density. Kyle must create an economic climate that balances attracting new businesses and employers with promoting small businesses and preserving our downtown and special small town character. Currently, we are taking the necessary steps to improve our infrastructure to sustain our growth.
9. What are your thoughts on Kyle’s current ad valorem tax rate?
Our tax rate is too high, which is why I voted against it in September. There is wiggle room to reduce our tax rate. There are many one-time expenditures that are not recurring that can be eliminated. We must make difficult decisions to cut spending and encourage economic development in Kyle.
11. What television program are you currently watching or streaming?
The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Ellen is a positive role model and her goal in life is to do good and be kind. I appreciate her kindness and she is someone who is always looking out for her fellow man, especially children. She has a special place in her heart for children and animals. And so do I.
