Looks like running for state representative in Plano just got a little more expensive… for the taxpayers. When city council member Mabrie Jackson left her post with the term only half-filled to seek a state rep seat, it forced a special election. Bill to the taxpayers? $172,000.
(Video below or here.)
The deputy mayor is quoted in local press as saying most of the money for the race is coming from the city’s unappropriated funds, or rainy day fund. He said the money is set aside for emergencies “like when the sewer pipes broke a few years ago.”
Is he comparing a city council race to sewage? Or just the vacancy Mrs. Jackson created? Either way, taxpayers better hope the city’s physical infrastructure holds up until the funds can be replenished.
Mrs. Jackson is in a run-off with conservative Van Taylor in the race to replace retiring State Rep. Brian McCall. The Empower Texans PAC has endorsed Mr. Taylor.
By leaving her post early, the city was forced to hold a special election to fill the vacancy she created. A special city election was held Jan. 30 with three candidates vying for the position. Noone received 50 percent of the vote, so a city run-off will be held March 27.
According to Star Local News, the cost of the first round was set at $80,000, and an additional $92,000 will be required for the run-off.
