There are several large commercial, retail, and residential development projects currently under construction in Kyle. Do you have any concerns about them or how well our current infrastructure can support them?
My only concerns are the efficiency of their production on the city side. Our current infrastructure needs work, but that work needs to be well managed. I'd like to see third-party consultations determining the economic efficiency of these projects; with the hopes of saving the taxpayers as much money as possible while providing the infrastructure necessary to encourage and support economic development.
What can be done to ensure builders are paying their fair share so the infrastructure is done right when they build in Kyle?
Part of the bidding process involves determining the greatest result possible from each dollar spent. As long as an agreement can be made, and the city can enforce it, we have nothing to worry about.
What are your thoughts about Kyle's affordability as a place to live? How would work to ensure Kyle is an affordable city going forward?
The cost of living in this city has skyrocketed as a result of foreign investment, and egregious property assessment. By significantly increasing the homestead exemption and fast-tracking home property development we can ensure that the natives of our great city aren't priced out.
Law enforcement is one of the largest expenses in the city’s budget. What are your thoughts about Kyle's police force and if they are being deployed adequately and appropriately?
I have had qualms about law enforcement in many cities, (Austin, DC) and tend to pursue a more restrictive budget. However, I believe Kyle PD to be one of the finest police forces in the country - one that's well worth investing in. As our city grows, we need to ensure that we don't become "the next Austin." A strong, well-funded police force is necessary.
Drought has been on residents’ minds this year. How should Kyle address the city's immediate and long-term water and wastewater needs?
The city is currently pursuing measures to improve water reclamation infrastructure, and I believe they're on the right track. Many of the pumps in this city need work, too, and I'd like to see them improved.
How well is Kyle planning for the future? What improvements would you suggest?
The city's future is bright, but this growth needs to keep current residents in mind. I'm excited to see how the brick-and-mortar district pans out, and hope there will be strong opportunities for small businesses to grow. This is a very broad question that will need sound economic minds to answer on a case-by-case basis. If we keep small businesses and existing residents in mind, I believe the city will do well for decades to come.
What should the city council do to support local businesses?
Tax exemptions and abatements, as well as potential grants (depending on the need), are necessary for rapid, efficient small business growth. I'd like to see us slow down on inviting large corporate interests into our city if that invitation includes long-term tax rebates. While it's nice to see staples of shopping centers develop, it would also be nice to see us reserve those rebates and incentives for smaller developments that really need it. This will help maintain our city's charm.
What are your views on Kyle's roads and your position on the Kyle road bond proposition that will be on the ballot this November?
I am opposed to prop A, as I believe it to be grossly inefficient. Until I can see that taxpayers dollars are being well spent, and will return the investment to the citizens, I cannot abide such an inefficient bill - although I do believe our infrastructure to need serious improvement. I feel this road bond is a horribly managed idea.
Selecting a city manager is one of the most important decisions a city council can make. What characteristics do you want the next Kyle City Manager to possess and demonstrate in this important role?
I'd like to see someone with deep roots in the area, not just some suit looking to enjoy an incredibly high salary and add something to their resume.
What are you willing to do to maintain an open dialog with your constituents?
I intend to host a monthly public forum for all to address me specifically and have their concerns heard. I'm here to represent the people of Kyle.
Kyle Road Bond Proposition
Proposition A, which totals $294.4 million, provides funding for critical transportation projects that will decrease congestion and improve overall safety and mobility in Kyle.
There are 8 roadway projects across Kyle totaling 10.3 total miles of new location, reconstruction, and widening projects to improve the City’s transportation network.
These projects will provide additional capacity to support current and future traffic, strengthen connections between the east and west sides of Kyle, and construct key segments of the Vybe trail system.
WHERE ARE THESE PROJECTS?
See the map below to look at the potential projects and where they are in the City.
Scroll through the project pages to learn more about each project on the ballot this fall.
Name
Neal Breen
How can voters contact you?
Describe your educational background
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I departed from an education in economics to pursue better opportunities professionally. I have continued to study and teach myself on the subject of economics and fully intend to return to academia in pursuit of my Ph.D. in the near future.
Describe your relevant employment background
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I've been running businesses my whole life. As a result, I've learned a lot about the relationship between business and local government, and would like to offer contributions to economic growth from the government side of the equation.
Describe your leadership experience background
- I've fallen into leadership roles in every facet of my life for many years. Whether it be managing a staff, consulting small businesses, participating in study groups, or being captain of a pool team. I find a firm, but gentle approach to be the best way to accomplish anything. Every voice needs to be heard, but every kitchen needs a chef.
Describe your community involvement in Kyle
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I've been a pretty quiet citizen until now, given that I tend to work around the clock. I've freed myself up recently and am excited to contribute to the community as much as possible.
Breen is running for election to the Place 1 seat on the Kyle City Council. This is an at-large council seat, meaning that any registered voter in the City of Kyle can vote in this election.
The Kyle City Council is composed of a Mayor elected at-large by the people for a three-year term and six Council Members, three elected at-large and one from each of the three districts, for staggered three-year terms.
Click on the image below to see an interactive map of the Early Voting locations in Hays County. Registered voters can vote at any location.
Click on the image below to see an interactive map of the Election Day voting locations in Hays County. Registered voters in Hays County can vote at any vote location on Election Day.
