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Sheryl Lackey/ File photo
Sheryl Lackey is running for Alderman Place 1 in Cumby’s May 2, 2020 special election.
Lackey moved to Cumby in 2002 and says she was inspired to run for city council due to “listening to stories of years past and what I have been seeing happening [which] has aspired [sic] me to unite, rebuild and restore our town.”
“There was a time in Cumby when it was thriving and booming,” Lackey said. To return to such a time, Lackey says she would like to focus on checks and balances, primary infrastructure such as water tanks, wells, pumps and roads and community unification.
“Without operating with the proper checks and balances some of our former leaders were spending money inadvisably and imprudently,” Lackey said. “We have water tanks, pumps and well issues along with roads that are in much need of repair. Without proper maintenance and lack of foresight of growth has helped create these problems.”
“All the citizens of Cumby have been suffering and been victimized by what has been transpiring over the years. I feel as if their voices not being heard is why they “gave up” and stopped voicing their opinions, concerns and fears. If we do not address these issues now, our city takes a chance of more monetary short-falls which will not allow us to have a way of providing good quality water and roads that are drivable.”
“If the division of the community continues,” Lackey said, “We will not be able to work as a team to fix our town. With all these issues we are taking a chance of stagnating the growth of a once prosperous town.”
According to Lackey, the problems Cumby faces cannot be fixed overnight and will take time, healing and working together.
“Due to the huge turnover we have seen with our employees and Council we need training classes so that we are able to run the city in a more proficient manner,” she said. “Texas Municipal League and Texas Municipal Clerks offer seminars not only for Council Members but also city secretaries, I know the training will cost money but I believe it will pay off in the future, by restructuring some areas financially I believe this could be funded without impacting the current budget.”
Lackey stated she will donate her monthly council payment, if elected, to help fund “much-needed” seminars.
“I will urge all the leadership members of the city of Cumby to do the same,” Lackey said.
“With the anticipated growth and for sustainability of our town I believe we should focus on possibilities of acquiring more grants, from both state and federal agencies for our water and infrastructure needs. I propose to have an open forum, which no city business would be acted upon, twice a year where members of the community can voice their concerns or make suggestions,” she said.
For those who are unable to make the open forums and/or the monthly council meetings, Lackey suggests a suggestion box at City Hall, “so their voices can be heard as well.”
“It will take time for the City and community to facilitate changes that need to be done, however, I believe with teamwork and community input we can achieve these goals so that our town can thrive and prosper once again,” Lackey said.
“I love this town just like a family and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities of uniting, rebuilding and restoring Cumby,” Lackey stated.