Candidate profile: Tom Jones, Kerr County Judge

Tom Jones, the current Precinct 1 commissioner, is running for Kerr County judge in what he describes as a significant “gamble” that required him to resign his commissioner seat and currently serve as a “holdover” official.

Jones explained the legal requirements created risk in his decision to run. After the March 3 primary, outgoing Judge Rob Kelly could walk in the next day and tell Jones to go home once voters have chosen a new Precinct 1 commissioner.

Despite the risk, Jones chose to run because he wants to provide “continuity on that court” and ensure someone involved in the current life of Kerr County is in charge.

Jones discussed the status of the search for remaining flood victims Seal Stewart and Jeff Ramsey, reporting that state teams are wrapping up operations at Ingram Lake and moving to Nimitz Lake, specifically near the water treatment plant, to search for DNA traces.

Addressing public calls to simply drain the lakes to find the victims, Jones explained it is not as simple as “pull the plug.” He cited the immense expense and logistical difficulty of refilling them, though he conceded “the entire river corridor needs that at some point.”

Jones highlighted his experience from the 2002 flood, which helped him negotiate with state and federal agencies during the recent disaster. He successfully fought to reduce the county’s financial obligation for the cleanup from $10 million down to under $2 million, using visits from the president and governor as leverage to “hold their feet to the fire.”

Jones was candid about the county’s difficult financial outlook, describing the upcoming budget cycle as “rough.”

He defended his vote for the “no new revenue” tax rate, hoping a “healthy restoration” of the local economy would cover shortfalls. However, he noted 32 businesses are still struggling and economic recovery is “a pretty good ways off.”

Jones warned the county budget has “no fat,” meaning any cuts would directly impact services and personnel. While praising Sheriff Larry Leitha as an “excellent sheriff” who has taken local law enforcement to a “new era,” Jones admitted the county “will not be able to to meet some of his future needs at least this next year” due to budget constraints.

Jones expressed satisfaction with recent votes to advance the flood warning system. He noted the county is receiving an initial $1.25 million, but he is working with Sen. Pete Flores to secure the full $5 million needed. He also plans to ask the Community Foundation to assist with funding to reduce the burden on taxpayers.

A key hurdle was ensuring the county maintained “ultimate authority” over the system and payments rather than just acting as a pass-through for the state.

Jones admitted his relationship with outgoing Judge Kelly was initially “pretty shaky” because Kelly was “scared about some of my other associations and affiliations.” However, Jones stated they now have a great relationship, and he serves as the person the court turns to for “prayer needs.”

Jones confirmed he continues to lead the Christian Men’s Job Corps, which has 750 graduates. He views this ministry as his calling and stated he will continue this work even if elected judge, utilizing “servant leadership” to empower his staff.