| Candidates stress growth, community 04/06/2001 By Herb Booth / The Dallas Morning News In DeSoto's City Council Place 5 race, incumbent Michael Hurtt chose to seek the mayor's seat, where he is unopposed. That set up a three-candidate race in Place 5.
Frank Morris Sr., Christie Tatum-Miser and Bobby W. Waddle agree that managing growth and maintaining diversity are the two big issues in their bids for the council position.
Mr. Morris, 61, a five-year resident of the city, said DeSoto is at a critical point in its history.
"We have to manage the growth that is happening and is coming in our community," Mr. Morris said. "And we must maintain the racial diversity in our community."
Mr. Morris, who has been a social sciences professor at the University of Texas at Dallas and other universities, said DeSoto must ensure that growth does not outstrip available infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer services.
Ms. Tatum-Miser said economic development is a key issue. She said Cedar Hill and other communities have outpaced DeSoto in ensuring economic development.
"I think some of it is just making sure businesses have the available information," said the 26-year-old lifelong DeSoto resident. "We've got a great industrial park. I think the Economic Development Corporation is doing a great job in generating some of the needed demographic information. We just need to make that available."
Ms. Tatum-Miser said the economic development field is competitive and that DeSoto should provide incentives comparable to what other cities offer.
Mr. Waddle said there aren't any pressing issues, but DeSoto must keep up amenities for its citizens. He said infrastructure maintenance and expansion need to be at the top of DeSoto's agenda. Mr. Waddle is a 15-year resident of the city.
Mr. Morris said his campaign would center on ensuring the "family spectrum" in DeSoto. The central points in that platform include ensuring great schools and adequate family-oriented activities and expanding senior-related activities.
Mr. Morris said he is running for office because he wants to give something back to the community.
"I had an elementary school teacher who said you have to learn, earn and serve in this world," he said.
Mr. Waddle, 67, said he has been in the community since childhood. His "roots are here," he said, and he believes he can contribute.
Ms. Tatum-Miser said she's always been a volunteer. She said her daughter calls her the "trash lady" because of her nonstop efforts for beautification. "A lot of people don't have time anymore [to serve]," she said. "But with e-government, there's a solution for people like me."
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