Ricky Gleason, a local financial advisor, business consultant, and former Planning and Zoning Commissioner, has officially launched his campaign for Kendall County Judge. Rooted in a lifelong connection to the community, Gleason's candidacy centers on a "servant leadership" philosophy that views the office not as a position of power, but as a platform for stewardship and advocacy.
Gleason, a Boerne High School graduate who returned to his hometown to raise his family, believes the county is at a critical juncture. With the Texas Triangle growth pressing into the Hill Country, he argues that the role of County Judge—effectively the CEO of the county—requires a leader who listens first and collaborates always. "Kendall County deserves thoughtful leadership—leadership at its core that serves and guides, not controls," said Gleason. "The role of local government should be to advocate for its citizens, not act as an adversary."
This announcement matters because local government decisions directly impact residents' daily lives, particularly in rapidly growing regions facing infrastructure and resource pressures. Gleason's campaign highlights the increasing importance of strategic planning at the county level as Texas experiences significant population growth. The implications of this election will determine how Kendall County manages development while preserving its rural character and natural resources.
Drawing on his professional background, Gleason emphasizes the need for a collaborative, long-term strategic vision to address the county's most pressing challenges. His platform includes proactive infrastructure planning for roads and public safety with 10- and 20-year horizons, ensuring the county stays ahead of growth rather than being overwhelmed by it. He advocates for regional partnerships with neighboring Hill Country counties to protect vital water resources, recognizing that "water doesn't care about county lines."
The candidate also aims to bolster volunteer fire departments and EMS teams that serve as the county's backbone, while balancing necessary growth with respect for property rights and rural heritage. For residents, this means potential impacts on property values, traffic patterns, emergency response times, and water availability. For the broader region, Kendall County's approach to growth management could set precedents for other Hill Country communities facing similar pressures.
Gleason's leadership style is defined by humility and the recognition that the best solutions come from the community itself. "I'm a big fan of not being the smartest guy in the room," Gleason noted. "Strong leadership listens first, collaborates second, and acts with integrity always. My job is to bring the experts and the citizens together to find creative solutions that protect our quality of life for the next 50 years."
Gleason is urging all residents to take an active role in the upcoming election cycle, noting that local decisions made at the primary level often have the most direct impact on daily life. Early voting begins February 23, with the Primary Election held on March 3. "Good government doesn't dictate outcomes; it guides the community toward success," Gleason said. "I am running to ensure that every resident feels their local government is working with them, not against them." More information about the campaign is available at https://www.rickygleason.com.
