With great respect and a deep commitment to public service, I present my qualifications for consideration as Burnet County Judge to complete the remainder of the vacated term. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to leadership, problem-solving, and community service, and I am honored to seek the opportunity to bring this experience to the role of county judge.
It is important to note that I do not intend to run for this position in the next election.
Educational Background
As a proud Texan and a graduate of the University of Texas, I have built a strong foundation in law, business, and governance. My academic qualifications include:
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting (1966)
- Juris Doctor from the UT School of Law (1973)
These degrees have provided me with the necessary skills in financial analysis, legal expertise, and decision-making, which have guided my career in both public and private sectors.
Professional Experience
With over 50 years of experience spanning law, finance, governance, and conflict resolution, I have developed the expertise necessary to serve as Burnet County Judge effectively.
Legal and Judicial Experience
- Private Law Practice (1973-1996):
- Specialized in estate planning, probate, guardianships, business law, and civil litigation.
- Served as General Counsel for Big Spring Independent School District, handling desegregation and federal civil rights cases.
- Judge, 33rd Judicial District of Texas (1996-2012):
- Presided over civil, criminal, juvenile, and family law cases.
- Maintained a reputation for fairness, integrity, and impartiality.
- Led efforts to establish an additional district court (424th) and Burnet County Court-at-Law to improve case management.
- Served on the Texas Supreme Court Task Force on Foster Care to improve child welfare policies.
- Justice of the Peace, Burnet County (2015):
- Filled a vacated term and ensured efficient and fair judicial proceedings.
- Professional Mediator & Arbitrator (Since 2013):
- Recognized as “Distinguished” by the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association.
- Successfully mediated hundreds of disputes, reducing court caseloads and promoting fair resolutions.
My judicial experience equips me to handle probates, probate contests, and guardianships in collaboration with the county court-at-law, ensuring that Burnet County’s legal matters are handled efficiently.
Military & Leadership Experience
U.S. Navy Service
- Served aboard the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam conflict.
- Directed the communications message center and managed critical operations.
- Served as underway officer of the deck, ensuring precise execution of duties.
This experience instilled in me discipline, leadership, and the ability to make decisive judgments under pressure.
Community and Civic Leadership
- Founding President, Marble Falls Daybreak Rotary
- Chaired the development of a $3 million, 120-unit HUD-funded retirement home for elderly and disabled residents in Big Spring.
- Consulted on a similar housing project in Midland.
- Held leadership positions in the Episcopal Church, including Senior Warden, Parochial School Board Chairman, and Trust Fund Chair.
These experiences have strengthened my ability to bring people together, foster collaboration, and lead effectively.
Vision as Burnet County Judge
If appointed as Burnet County Judge, I will bring a collaborative and solutions-driven approach to governance. My priorities include:
- Ensuring effective budget oversight through my background in law and finance.
- Leading the Commissioners Court with fairness and impartiality to address county needs.
- Managing judicial functions efficiently, particularly in probate and guardianship matters.
- Enhancing collaboration among county departments and community stakeholders for effective decision-making.
With 16 years on the district court bench and extensive mediation experience, I can immediately step into this role and serve Burnet County effectively.
I am honored to be considered for this position and am confident that my experience, leadership, and dedication uniquely position me to serve the citizens of Burnet County. I look forward to working with county officials and residents to build a bright and prosperous future.
