Water district candidates discuss resident issues

1. This year IMUD is opting to hold its election in the district offices rather than group with other taxing entities for a cost savings. Do you agree with this? Why or why not?

Fisher - We did this for our customers and sick and elderly. The cost of gas is high. They won't have to drive so far.

George - I cannot agree or disagree because I was not informed on that fact. I do agree on being cost effective.

Juroska - Yes, like the present system.

Shimek - Yes, because with the cost of gas so high our customers won't have to drive so far. Also for the old folks.

2. With IMUD's debt soon to be retired, what planning do you feel the district needs to do in preparation? Should taxes be dropped accordingly?

Fisher - In my opinion, there should not be any taxes, but we do need some revenue to keep our district going.

George - Yes, if the debt is paid I think that the taxes should be dropped.

Juroska - Leave everything the same.

Shimek - We already dropped taxes. We have a great board who listens to the people. We are always open for suggestions. Yes, we could lower taxes.

3. In addition to water, sewer and garbage, IMUD has worked to add streetlights to the district as well as better signage. What is the next service you think the district should offer residents?

Fisher - Grants to fund a park for the kids, more security patrols, start neighborhood watch party, more lights.

George - The IMUD area needs to work on cleaning up all the old buildings, junk cars in the yards etc. and make the area a prettier and safer area for the residents that live here.

Juroska - Animal control.

Shimek - Neighborhood crime watch, more street patrols within our distinct. A nice park for the kids.

4. Why do you feel you are the best person to hold office?

Fisher - That's why we have an election. The voters need to decide that.

George - Because I speak up for what I believe in and when I am asked to help with things I do not stop until it is done and people that know me also know that I am very capable of handling difficult situations.

Juroska - Because I have lived in IMUD most of my life and know the people here.

Shimek - My wife Madeline helped start the district and I have lived in the district for 56 years. I know this place.

5. Should IMUD work with the city of El Campo to stop dogs from running loose in the district? Why or why not?

Fisher - We had our attorney get with the county attorney about loose dogs. Wharton County has no program. We then contacted a spay and neuter group from Houston and one from Angleton. In my opinion that's the way to go. We are outside the city limits, so the city cannot pick up animals in our area. We want our people to have their pets, as long as they do not cause a problem.

George - Yes. We need help with the stray dogs that run out here. There are people moving out here and bringing pit bulls and Chows with them. We need to have an animal control officer to call on and dog owners need to show proof of their vaccinations. No dog should be allowed to run, it should be contained in a fenced in area.

Juroska - Yes, because they are becoming a major problem.

Shimek - We have contacted the district attorney office and county attorney to see what we can do. At the same time, we are outside the city limits and don't have a problem with people having pets as long as they don't bother or bite someone. The city has never asked us, and by law I don't think they can come outside the city limits. Just read the Leader-News, IMUD went to county about dogs and had a person come by and tell us what we can do about a year ago. Will be working with county.