Candidates in Lufkin’s Ward 2 gear up for city council race
Lufkin, Texas (KTRE) - Incumbent Robert Shankle, and challenger Carlton Teal: One is looking to keep his seat on Lufkin’s City Council, and the other looking to bring change into a new role.
With early voting beginning on April 22, here’s what they want you to know before you cast your vote.
“I’m running on the platform focused on the future of the city of Lufkin,” said Shankle.
As Ward 2′s incumbent, Shankle said his time in the seat has helped economic development in the city, with efforts in affordable housing being high in priority.
The Lufkin native is hoping to continue those efforts by being the voice for Ward 2.
“I don’t just campaign during campaign season; I campaign every day to make sure that the people that I represent are satisfied in what I’m doing,” said Shankle.
Shankle said he’s been a part of initiatives to bring more stores like Family Dollar to ward 2, bringing bus stops to the city, and restrooms to Lufkin Land Park.
He said his experience and established relationship with city council members can be an asset if he is re-elected.
“When I see that I’m no longer the voice of the community, that’s when it’s time to step down. I still feel I have a lot to give,” said Shankle.
Right under Shankle on the ballot is candidate Carlton Teal
“I’m running on the message of infrastructure,” said Teal
Change, equity, and progress. These are all things Teal wants to put at the forefront if he’s elected. Teal said being a neighbor of those living in Ward 2 he’s seen positive economic change be neglected.
“We used to have grocery stores ... they’ve relocated to other parts of town all because of our infrastructure,” said Teal.
Teal said lack of infrastructure upgrades in Ward 2 has helped him see where his election is needed now and not later.
“This is one of the neglected areas in our town. If you look around in this park, you can tell it’s not been manicured. It’s time to make a change. I’m that change,” said Teal.
Early voting will take place April 22 to April 30, with election day being May 4th, all taking place at Lufkin City Hall.
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