Kaufman County Commissioner-Precinct 4 Candidate Cates Visits Larson Electronics

KEMP, Texas, April 13, 2018 -- Ken Cates, a run-off candidate in the upcoming election for Kaufman County Commissioner-Precinct 4, visited with Mr. Rob Bresnahan, President and CEO of Larson Electronics 9419 E US Hwy 175, Kemp, TX  75143, to learn about the challenges that face new and expanding businesses in Precinct 4.  Mr. Cates, retired Special Agent in Charge, US Department of Homeland Security-US ICE is seeking his first term as the Precinct 4 Commissioner and strongly believes that supporting developing local businesses is an important part of what a modern Precinct Commissioner should do.

"Our county is already experiencing dramatic growth in population and Precinct 4 is no exception.  Our County Commissioners Court must understand the needs of new and expanding businesses which serve to create desirable, quality jobs and grow the commercial tax base to support much needed road and infrastructure repair, and other critical county services without the need for tax increases."

Mr. Bresnahan conducted a plant and facilities tour of Larson Electronics which manufactures and distributes specialty lighting and related electronics products worldwide from its light-industrial plant located just outside of Kemp, TX.  CEO Bresnahan explained to Mr. Cates how the simple lack of utility infrastructure along the Hwy 175 corridor is a serious limiting factor to the growth and expansion of Larson Electronics. 

"We could potentially double our existing workforce of approximately fifty local residents if we could get County support in bringing in adequate sewer and water systems.  Our staff of skilled and well-paid employees all contribute to the local economy as would any and all new positions we could add,” said Mr. Bresnahan. “Supporting the development of roads, bridges and infrastructure that attracts and grows businesses in the local area is something that we would love to see our County Commissioner and our County government in general consider a priority."

Mr. Cates fully agrees with the sentiment of Larson Electronics management and pledged to do all he could if elected, to seek innovative funding such as State and Federal Block Grants and increased partnerships with TXDOT and local communities to build a welcoming environment for desirable economic growth in Precinct 4. 

"Today’s County Commissioner function requires a strong financial policy background and an understanding of both private and public funding needs to encourage quality residential and commercial growth,” said Mr. Cates. “The terrible roads in Precinct 4 and the lack of much needed infrastructure have existed for 20 plus years, largely due to a failure to focus on finding adequate funding.  We must re-prioritize the County's overall commitment to Roads, Bridges and Infrastructure and we must have a fairer sharing of the available county dollars in our local area.  Additionally, I believe it is past time for Kaufman County to at least consider employing a full-time County Engineer that could professionally advise our Precincts and Commissioners Court on Road Construction, Flood Control, Infrastructure Development, etc.  Experience in quality program management, budget oversight and good governance is needed in our County and in Precinct 4 now more than ever.  County leaders can't make good decisions on bad or non-existent information."

For further information, please contact:
Ken Cates
Phone: 214-455-4116
E-mail: [email protected]
Facebook