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  Re-election Campaign 2012
 

I proudly take this opportunity to announce my candidacy for re-election as Zapata County Commissioner for Precinct One.  It is my distinct honor to serve the residents of my precinct by providing a serious commitment to expand and improve those public services required to accommodate economic growth and prosperity to all Zapatans.  With close proximity to the 2012 primary election, I begin my re-election campaign giving my constituents some serious thoughts as to why I should continue serving this county for the next four years.  Obviously, voters need leadership skills, proven honesty, respect towards everyone, and commitment to this public office.  One may historically recall the circumstances experienced in precinct one before I became county commissioner back in 2005.  It only takes a few minutes to recall the chaos and mismanagement from those deplorable years.  Before I became your county commissioner, Zapata County experienced a tumultuous period.  It took the effort and support of the Zapata County Precinct One voters to converge and create a positive change in our county political spectrum.
  I have been instrumental in contributing to the following:  
 

    • Construction of a modern and expanded solid waste landfill facility
    • the paving and reconstruction of many dilapidated streets
    •  expanding our county healthcare services
    • construction of a new, state of the art, $14 million dollar water treatment facility complete with amenities
    • increase in firefighter personnel and new equipment
    • the renovation and construction of public parks and facilities
    • the increase of street lighting throughout various residential areas
    • the construction of the Higher Education Center, the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Swimming Complex, the Zapata County Museum, the Zapata County Food Bank, The Lopeno Nutrition Center, and the Zapata County Transportation Office. 

    In addition, I have endorsed and approved the Zapata County Visionary Plan. This plan calls for installing additional fire hydrants, augmenting sewer utility lines, and improving recreational facilities.

     

  Since 2006....
 

I have utilized the county ordinance authority which was passed by the Texas Legislature to Zapata County. Through this authority, county abatement policies have been passed to enforce illegal dumping and littering, and helping to establish the Zapata County Health Authority. Under the county health authority, many abandoned properties have now been cleaned to safeguard the neighboring residents from health and fire hazards. 
Another major accomplishment has been the purchase of specialized heavy equipment for hauling and disposing of tree branches and limbs. This new county service gives residential areas a clear view of their properties at no additional cost to property owners.  Finally, I have established an open door policy with the Texas Department of Transportation in which I am able to acquire surplus road materials at no additional cost. Recycled asphalt has been very helpful to maintain many of our county roads and parks.  

Additionally, Zapata County’s General Fund balance in 2004 reached a dismal $1.2 million, while today, our last county audit for fiscal year 2010 shows reserves of $16.8 million, with triple investment values of completed infrastructure and capital improvements.  I am an impartial, full-time public servant without influence from anyone.  I highly recommend checking my administrative record to enable a comparison with the past administration. My political record shows that I have always kept honesty and integrity when managing crucial county government affairs.  My future plans include, exploring for additional revenue sources aside from oil and gas exploration, the expansion of our infrastructure to attract more local businesses and create much needed jobs for our area.  In diversifying our tax base and limiting unnecessary spending, I firmly believe Zapata County will continue to be one of the most attractive communities in the South Texas Border. A strong county administration supporting good fiscal management practices enables local governmental entities like Zapata County to reach their future goals and expectations.
 

 

Vote for your Incumbent County Commissioner, Jose Emilio Vela
 

I humbly ask for your unconditional support because this election involves our future as a community. If you desire to extend proven leadership, honest government, and profound ability to administer your tax dollars, then you should make the right choice and choose the best candidate for Precinct One, Zapata County Commissioner.  Please vote on March 2012 for continued progress and positive results.  Vote for your Incumbent County Commissioner, Jose Emilio Vela.

 

 

Veteran's Day Wreath Laying Ceremony, 11/11/11

 

Various Functions and Celebrations
through the years...

 

2009 Oath Ceremony