I was taught early in life that public service isn’t a title—it’s a responsibility. Growing up in a working-class family, I watched my parents and grandparents work long hours, volunteer in our community, and show up for neighbors in times of need. That example shaped my career in law and community advocacy, and it’s the same example that drives my campaign for Fort Bend County Commissioner, Precinct 4.

As an attorney and community advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how decisions about roads, drainage, healthcare, and county services can open doors for families—or leave them behind. From helping clients navigate complex systems to working with local organizations, I’ve built a reputation for listening carefully, fighting hard, and treating everyone with dignity, regardless of race, income, or ZIP code.

Precinct 4 families are doing everything right—working hard, raising kids, paying taxes—yet too often they’re stuck with unsafe roads, neighborhoods that flood, healthcare that’s hard to access, and services that don’t keep up with growth. I’m running for Commissioner to change that, so county government stays focused on what really matters: keeping people safe, protecting homes, expanding healthcare access, and making sure every neighborhood has a fair shot.

A Background of Service and the Practical Experience You Can Count On

Public leadership requires more than good intentions; it requires practical experience, a steady temperament, and relentless focus on results. My background as an attorney and community advocate has provided me with the tools to analyze problems, negotiate with stakeholders, and pursue solutions that are both legally sound and grounded in everyday needs. I approach county government the same way I approach a legal case: with careful listening, meticulous research, and clear priorities.

Working with families across Fort Bend, I have seen recurring themes: outdated infrastructure, inequitable access to services, and gaps in the safety net that disproportionately affect seniors, working parents, and those on fixed incomes. Those observations have shaped a pragmatic agenda that prioritizes targeted investments, transparent budgeting, and measurable outcomes. I believe county decisions should be driven by data and community input—so that dollars go to the places where they will have the greatest impact.

As your Fortbend Commissioner, I will bring that same results-focused approach to county operations, ensuring that every project is evaluated for its ability to improve safety, reduce long-term costs, and strengthen neighborhoods. By partnering with local leaders, first responders, and civic groups, my office will be a responsive presence in every neighborhood of Precinct 4, helping residents navigate county services and ensuring their concerns are elevated to the county level.

Addressing Infrastructure, Drainage, and Public Safety with Equity

One of the most persistent challenges in Precinct 4 is infrastructure that hasn’t kept pace with growth. Roads in need of repair, aging drainage systems, and inconsistent maintenance can create hazards and reduce quality of life. My plan focuses on a strategic, equity-driven approach: prioritize projects that protect life and property, reduce repetitive flood damage, and eliminate dangerous road conditions in underserved neighborhoods.

Investment in drainage is not only about concrete and pipes; it’s about protecting families from displacement and financial ruin after storms. I will push for county-wide assessments that identify the most vulnerable corridors and neighborhoods, then allocate funds for both immediate mitigation and long-term resilience projects. Where possible, I will pursue state and federal grants to maximize local dollars and reduce the burden on taxpayers.

Public safety and infrastructure go hand-in-hand. Safer roads mean fewer accidents; well-maintained streets improve emergency response times; reliable drainage protects low-lying neighborhoods and critical infrastructure. By coordinating county departments and promoting interlocal cooperation, we can ensure that maintenance schedules, permitting, and capital projects are aligned to create measurable improvements across Precinct 4. I will also prioritize community engagement so that residents can weigh in on which projects matter most to their daily lives.

Expanding Healthcare Access, Economic Opportunity, and Community Engagement

Health and economic opportunity are inseparable components of a thriving community. In Precinct 4, many families face barriers to affordable, accessible healthcare and workforce supports that can stabilize households and promote upward mobility. My approach emphasizes expanding preventive care, increasing access to mental health and substance-use services, and collaborating with clinics and nonprofit providers to ensure services are available where families live and work.

Economic development must be inclusive. That means supporting small businesses, workforce training programs, and initiatives that connect residents to living-wage jobs. By aligning county economic programs with local needs—apprenticeships, transportation access, childcare supports—we can reduce barriers that keep talented people from fully participating in the local economy. I will champion policies that help entrepreneurs of all backgrounds access capital and resources to grow their businesses in Precinct 4.

Community engagement is the spine of good governance. I will hold regular town halls, listening sessions, and neighborhood walk-throughs so county decisions reflect lived experience. My commitment extends beyond campaign promises: I will bring transparency to county spending and create clear performance metrics that residents can review. For ongoing updates and community outreach, follow Brittanye Morris to see how plans turn into action and how residents can participate in shaping the future of Precinct 4.

Helio Paredes

Mexico City urban planner residing in Tallinn for the e-governance scene. Helio writes on smart-city sensors, Baltic folklore, and salsa vinyl archaeology. He hosts rooftop DJ sets powered entirely by solar panels.