Texas County Storytellers

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

You’re from Ohio and have held multiple careers before stepping into your current role. How did you go from being new to town to being named this year’s Judge of the Year at the Justices of the Peace and Constables Conference?  

I got a job offer to work for Salem Radio Network, and I was a board operator for all the syndicated talk shows for Salem, including hosts Dennis Prager, Michael Medved, Hugh Hewitt and Mike Gallagher. When 9/11 happened, Gallagher left New York City and came to Texas. In 2002, they asked me to come on board as an associate producer and work with him directly.  

I loved politics, loved getting involved in the community. Eventually, I moved to Rockwall, where I got involved in the local political scene. In 2008, I ran for city council, and then in 2012, I was asked to run for justice of the peace.  

What makes your county unique compared with others in Texas?  

Rockwall County is the smallest county in Texas by land area. And I believe that when you're a small county, you have to work harder to do great things. We have some resources. Everyone knows you. It's an awesome county, and it's just an honor to live here and to serve here.  

Are there moments in your county’s history that shaped the community we see today? 

The big project that I've been involved in is the rock wall, a wall that was discovered when land was being excavated for a well and became the namesake of the town. We recently acquired the land to make it open to the public. To see a wall generate interest and mystique and mystery, that's probably one of the most talked-about things here.   

What are some of the challenges your county is working through that you think will help it shape its future? 

I think growth. You know, when you're a small county, you don't want to lose that small-town feel, where it becomes condensed with traffic. We want that rural appeal. We want you to feel like you still matter. We want you to know that you can get a little bit of all the current amenities, but you're not lost in a shuffle.  

What sticks out for you when you think about living in Rockwall County? 

All our elected officials are approachable. And I think that's cool.  

You have culinary and broadcasting degrees. You’ve worked as a professional wrestler. You’ve worked in radio and television. Has this experience shaped your approach to public office? 

Well, I think in radio and TV and everything I did with entertainment, I think it was always about being approachable. But I think the key about elected office is listening. I think you have to always listen to who you serve. Be genuine and humble. I think a lot of times, the elected officials think they're above it.  

But I have found that people are very receptive when you're more at ease. When I was 5, my dream job was to be a jack of all trades and master of none. And I feel like this JP job is one of those jobs that every day is different. You can make a difference. I can pray with a family that just lost a loved one. I can make that worst day be somewhat good.  

What have you been most proud of during your tenure? 

I started this job not being expected to do a good job. You know, when you're elected and you don't know what you're doing. This was a brand-new office. I didn't even have a garbage can my first day. I didn't have business cards. I didn't have a computer. I didn't have anything, and to take it 13 years later, and build it into something that is the best in the state and to become Judge of the Year, I think that says something.  

How soon did you learn about the Texas Association of Counties? 

I feel like Rhita Koches has always been in my corner. That first visit made me feel like I was going to be OK. And now, to be a part of Leadership 254, I'm thankful, and I feel like I have a family. It's more than just a job. It's more than just co-workers. I feel like the people that I work with genuinely care about me. And I genuinely care about them. 

Thirteen years into your role, what’s next when it comes to what you do? 

I want to make sure that I make the maximum impact wherever I go. For me, it's what God has planned for me, and I’ve got to trust in that. If I don't think I can make a difference, I don't think I would be interested. For me, every case, every interaction adds another layer. I just want to make sure that I can continue to do the right job for the community. I will always hope to serve them in some capacity.