WASHINGTON CO. PRECINCT ONE COMMISSIONERS CANDIDATES DEBATE AT CANDIDATES FORUM

  

In the midst of a frantic and often disrespectful election season, the race for Precinct One Commissioner of Washington County provided a refreshing reprieve Monday evening.

Republican incumbent Don Koester and Democrat Shirley Harris-Jackson addressed several topics—without interruption—at KWHI’s “Candidates Forum.”  The two answered questions from the public and from news media inside the KWHI studio in downtown Brenham.

Among the subjects discussed by the candidates included COVID-19, the county’s budget, recent county projects, and goals they hope to accomplish in the future.

Koester believes transparency and a willingness to serve others are key parts of being a representative of the people, and said he has made those qualities a personal priority.

 

Harris-Jackson said county leaders need to have a vision for the future and an ear for the community.  She said she is a quick learner, and if elected, will seek input throughout her time in office.

 

The two agreed when it came to topics such as handling the budget and being open to the public, but the subject of COVID-19 brought some disagreements, particularly in regard to bars, which are slated to reopen tomorrow (Wednesday) in areas with low COVID-19 hospitalization rates.

Koester agreed with Governor Greg Abbott’s order allowing the reopening of bars, saying many of these businesses have struggled.

 

Meanwhile, Harris-Jackson believes it is too soon to open bars back up, saying the pandemic is far from over.

 

Early voting begins today (Tuesday) and runs through October 30^th, with Election Day set for November 3^rd.  Monday night’s forum can be heard by clicking here, or by visiting KWHI’s Facebook page.