Two candidates are running for a two-year term in Ward III on the Houston City Council. Learn more about the candidates.
Current Ward III alderpersons are Don Romines and Angie Gettys. Gettys’ seat – which she is not running for – is open.
Candidates are Kimberly Bittle and Morgan Patterson.
Kimberly Bittle
Tell us about yourself.
I have lived in Houston for over 14 years. I have lived in multiple states with my long career with the same employer for 35 years. My husband and I decided to make Houston our final move and raise our children. Our kids attended the Houston School district and are now both in college pursuing degrees in business and the medical field. My husband and son are both small business owners.Â
What makes you uniquely qualified for this role?
Working as a public servant for 35 years, I am a firm believer that I represent and work for the people. I do not have personal agendas. I work for the people and am their voice. I previously served on the city council from 2017 to 2021. I am honored to have been on the council, where I was a voice for the citizens of Houston. Now is a perfect opportunity for me to seek a term on council to represent and be a positive voice for the citizens of Houston and help to move the city in a positive direction. I have been watching how the current council members of Ward III have not been representing all the citizens of Ward III and for the rest of the city, and I have noticed how there is an appearance of letting current council members personal bias and agendas get in the way of making informed, or affect the, decisions to be made. I don’t feel the best interest for the citizens of Houston is reflected by current council members.
What is the most important project in the city in the next two years?
I would like to see the momentum increase on the sports complex. The city has many more opportunities to increase visitors and generate revenue for the city by hosting sporting events. I would also like to work with the citizens to develop a five to 10 year strategic plan for the city so all citizens know where we are going, how we are going to get there and how their tax dollars will be spent.Â
When hiring a new economic developer, what is your expectation for the role?
My expectation is they need to be able to think out of the box, and bring new ideas forward for future business opportunities, work with the city council on those potential opportunities and most of all work with the existing businesses to see how the city can help them promote and bring new opportunities to strengthen their business.Â
Cite how you view the city government’s current operation and discuss some positive trends and areas that need improvement.
The operations seem to be a little clunky. I think there could be more efficiencies brought forward to not waste taxpayers dollars. I do see positive trends in the police and fire departments. I think the City of Houston has the right people in place for the leadership of these two departments and they are always looking out for the best way to serve and protect the citizens of Houston and they make Houston a safe city to live in.Â
Morgan Patterson
Tell us about yourself.
I run the Sonic in Houston and currently serve as the Chamber of Commerce president. I try and bring positivity and energy everywhere I go. I am very community oriented. Seeing our community grow and thrive is one of my ultimate goals.
What makes you uniquely qualified for this role?
One thing that makes me uniquely qualified for this role is my willingness to be hands on and jump into things headfirst. I don’t shy away from something if it is difficult, and I give everything I do with all my efforts. Enthusiasm is very contagious, and I plan to bring that to the table along with compassion and my knowledge of running a business in our wonderful town.
What is the most important project in the city in the next two years?
The most important project in the city in the next two years in my opinion is the development of multifamily housing. There are plenty of homes for sale in Houston, but rental apartments and homes are hard to come by. The youth are the future. Giving young citizens a place to start their lives on their own will make our city grow and thrive.
When hiring a new economic developer, what is your expectation for the role?
I expect the economic developer to address the lack of rental properties in our town. Businesses will not want to set up shop in our town without affordable housing for the elderly, middle class and the youth.
Cite how you view the city government’s current operation and discuss some positive trends and areas that need improvement.
I appreciate the town’s ability to modernize while preserving its historic landmarks, striking a commendable balance between the old and the new. However, several areas require attention:
- Limited Rental Availability: The scarcity of rental properties poses a significant challenge for young people seeking affordable housing options in our town, which in turn hurts businesses seeking to expand their employment.Â
- Frequent Power Outages: Regular power outages disrupt daily life and inconvenience residents, and now the sale of the fiber department.Â
- Outdated Government Operations: The operations of Houston’s city government appear outdated and resistant to change. It is crucial to embrace fresh perspectives and new leadership to modernize our approach to city governance. By addressing these issues, we can enhance the quality of life for all residents and foster a more vibrant community.