Published: October 11, 2008 08:38 pm            

Warren cites service, beliefs in Precinct 3 run

David “Butch” Warren, 57, a former city councilman in Mildred, said he originally got involved in local government because he attended a council meeting — and was heard.

“I felt like I had accomplished something,” he said. “It drove me to continue going to the council meetings, and eventually, they asked me to be a member.”

After serving several years, including a spell as mayor pro tem, Warren said he learned how government worked, and he liked the idea of serving the community. He hopes to do that on a larger scale if elected as commissioner.

“If it was just a job, I’d stay right where I am at Owens Corning,” he said. “I’d like to come back and be a fundamental part of Navarro County.”

Warren said he has a background in construction and maintenance that will serve him well in the job. Differentiating himself from Baldwin, he said he supports the tax abatement for the two proposed power plants.

“That’s major economic development that everyone in the county could benefit from,” he said.

The possibility of raising the tax base, and lowering people’s taxes is something commissioners should pursue, Warren said. The new money could offer better jobs, and better government services, including more money for roads and volunteer fire departments, he said.

“I’d like to see Navarro County on the same playing field as our neighbors to the north and south of us, because they’re growing,” Warren said. “I’d like to see Navarro County moving forward.”

The challenger said he wanted people to feel comfortable talking to him. On a more concrete level, he wants to improve the roads in Precinct 3, to keep ditches clean, and keep trash out of the ditches.

“This is a safety issue, where the culverts are washed out on both sides,” he said. Cutting those tall weeds and canes can help eliminated blind spots, he said.

“The major point of my campaign is community,” he said. “Making people feel comfortable. If you think you can talk to me that’s a plus.”

Warren is married to Jan Warren and between them they have five children.

        

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