Anyone could submit written questions to a panel, which pre-screened the questions and then passed them along to a moderator.

Each candidate was given a minute to answer questions posed by the moderator in random order.

The candidates were also given two minutes each for opening and closing statements.

Mayor Candidates:

Todd Kana

On why he’s running: “I’ve felt it is my duty to give back to a city that’s given me so much.”

On employee raises: “I would rather forego raises than lay someone off for financial reasons.”

On TxDOT road projects: “We need to pressure TxDOT to let them know to get these projects underway,” and cited traffic gridlock in the city.

Connie Barrett

On why she’s running: “I would like to participate in the city of Magnolia that I love.”

On bringing businesses to the city: “We definitely have to have curb appeal,” and cited cleaning up properties along FM 1774 and beautification.

On her qualifications: “I’ve been in business twice, neither bankrupted. I’ve sat on many boards and committees. I have no obligation other than myself.”

Council Position 4 Candidates:

Dave Sutherland

On why he’s running: “We (he and his wife) have a financial and emotional investment here…and we want to see it grow and prosper.”

On his qualifications: “I’ve served on council, 4A, 4B. I see both sides of issues. I live and own property in the city. I tried getting out of this business but I can’t just sit on the couch and not participate.”

On bringing businesses to the city: “The private sector will have to invest in the city,” and emphasized making Magnolia a “destination city.”

Burhl “Jody” Sanders

On why he’s running: “After being on the council for a time, I really enjoyed it. I feel like Magnolia’s given a lot to me and I want to give back to Magnolia.”

On ideas for a 15-20 year growth plan: “Annexation is key to the whole thing. If we don’t have the land in the city limits, we won’t get anything out of it.”

On having liquor stores in city limits: “I’ve seen so many homes and lives destroyed by alcohol. We just need a better way of collecting revenue.”

Council Position 5 Candidates:

Patsy Williams

On why she’s running: “I have a past, a present and a future in Magnolia. I’m not a politician, I’m a servant. That’s what I love to do, I love this city.”

On city committees: “I believe we need a building standards committee and audit committee. I think committees and citizens’ involvement are great structures.”

On city’s tax base: “We have not raised taxes in 10 years. I’m not in favor of raising taxes, just the tax base.”

Christopher Myer

On why he’s running: “Magnolia’s a community I’ve grown to love and I just want to serve and help out all that I can.”

On city’s tax base: “I’m not for raising taxes on businesses, but I’m all for widening the tax base.”

On his qualifications: “I think someone with my background could help with the financial crisis. I have 12 years experience with multi-million dollar budgets.”

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