Ricky Thurman announces candidacy for Stephenville City Council.

Ricky Thurman

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

A familiar face in local politics is hoping to make a return to the Stephenville City Council in May.

Ricky Thurman filed Wednesday for Place 6, currently held by David Baskett.

“I am excited to announce my candidacy for Stephenville City Council,” Thurman told Beneath the Surface News. 

“With seven of the nine seats up for election this May, and after meeting with Mayor (Lonn) Reisman, I believe an experienced voice on the council will benefit the community as the city continues to tackle growth challenges, infrastructure needs, personnel recruitment, retention and overall quality of life for Stephenville residents.”

The city’s election will be held on Saturday, May 2.

The period to file for a place on the ballot ends Feb. 13.

This year’s ballot will be a full one with seven places to fill, including Reisman’s unexpired term (Place 3) and a vacancy left in Place 7, currently held by Brandon Greenhaw who is reportedly stepping down.

Mayor Lonn Reisman, Gerald Cook (Place 2), Dean Parr (Place 4) and Alan Nix (Place 8) all filed for re-election on Wednesday.

Cook will face a challenge from Jorge Moreno who also filed for Place 2.

Baskett said he is undecided on whether he will file for re-election.

THURMAN’S PAST SERVICE

Ricky Thurman served on the city council from 2019–2023 and currently serves on the Stephenville Economic Development Authority board of directors and Airport Advisory Board.  

 During his service on the council is this list of accomplishments:

• Welcomed $160 million in new economic development projects.

• Advanced major water and sewer expansion projects, greatly increasing the city’s ability to supply fresh water and manage increased waste-water demand.

•Added fire department shift personnel for the first time in more than a decade.

• Restructured the city employee pay plan, allowing all employees to see how their pay will advance through job performance and longevity.   

• Completed reconstruction of three major thoroughfares.  

“The experience, passion and accountability I bring will greatly lessen a steep learning curve as we move the city in a positive direction,” Thurman said.

“I will work to earn your vote this May and provide you with the trusted and engaged representation you deserve.”