The Midland Liberty Leadership Council hosted a City Council Candidate Forum and Luncheon on April 16. The event, moderated by former mayor of Midland and current board member of the Texas Public Policy Foundation Ernest Angelo, was attended by the five candidates running for city council at-large seat.
The forum addressed the candidates' vision for Midland, the role of public-private partnerships in city development, and community threats and challenges. Candidates also shared their motivations for running and discussed their top priorities if elected.
Candidates present at the forum:
James “Bull” Henry: A retired carpenter with extensive experience working with High Sky Children's Ranch and Midland County, Henry wants to use his background in community service to benefit Midland.
Eric Davidson: An engineer and director of the Permian Business Unit, Davidson is focused on infrastructure and balancing the city budget while keeping property taxes low. He aims to improve the quality of life in Midland.
John Burkholder: Serving on the city's Planning and Zoning Commission since last year, Burkholder has a background in business management and plans to focus on road infrastructure, quality of place projects, and resources for first responders.
Cheston Blank: At 20 years old, Blank wants to speak on issues important to young people, including affordable housing and zoning reform. He also advocates for better accessibility in public transit.
Ben Roberts: With experience in owning businesses and currently serving as a Finance Director, Roberts hopes to bring honesty, integrity, and conservative fiscal principles to the council.
Following the discussion forum, attendees were able to speak with the candidates individually.
Early voting will take place from April 22 to 26 and April 29 to 30, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Election day is May 4, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Texas Public Policy Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit, non-partisan research institute with a mission to defend liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise in Texas and the nation by educating policymakers and the Texas public policy debate with academically sound research and outreach.
Photo: Candidates John Burkholder, Cheston Blank, and Ben Roberts at the Midland Liberty Leadership Council City Council Candidate Forum | Credit: DaLeesa Brown