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City of Kennedale City Council, Place 4

City councils in Texas each have specific responsibilities unique to their city. Duties of a city council generally include setting the tax rate, approving a budget, adopting local ordinances, and managing land transactions. City councils plan and oversee public services and facilities: police and fire protection; health and sanitation services; animal control; street construction and maintenance; garbage collection and disposal; transportation systems; recreational facilities; parking; airports; jails; parks and zoos; libraries and museums; hospitals and emergency services; building codes/zoning; and water and sewage service. City council members may also elect other municipal officers or appoint citizens to serve on boards and commissions.

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  • Candidate picture

    Ryon Ray
    (N)

  • Candidate picture

    Melissa Barrow
    (N)

Biographical Information

Education/Experience:

Why are you running for city council and how does your background prepare you for this office?

How would you ensure adequate, timely and comprehensive public input and transparency at city council meetings?

What policies, procedures and guidelines would you support to protect residents from discrimination in response to federal funding requirements related to DEI programs and language?

What level of cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would you or would you not support under 287(g)?

What are the most critical issues facing the city, and how will you address them?

Campaign Email Ryon@RyonRay.com
Campaign Website http://www.ryonray.com
Occupation President & CEO
Bachelor’s in Business Management, Texas State University

President & CEO of Top 100 (Window & Door Magazine) window manufacturer based in Fort Worth serving 14 states and almost 300 employees and their families.

The simple response to this question is to promote collaboration between leadership driving real progress for our community.
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The progression of needed growth that will help balance our general revenue funding that currently relies disproportionately on property taxes. Strategic growth that increases sales tax revenue, reducing dependence on property taxes and meets the needs and interests of our citizens. Collaboration amongst city leadership is key to the success above.
Campaign Email candidatebarrow@gmail.com
Occupation Research and Insights
I graduated with a degree in Sociology from the University of Texas at Austin and built a career focused on listening to people and developing consumer insights for marketing teams. My leadership experience was strengthened through the LBJ School of Public Affairs Women’s Campaign School, preparing me to serve with integrity, transparency, and respect.
I am running for City Council because concerns about rising taxes led me to ask how I could be part of the solution. I believe if I raise concerns, I should also help address them. My background as a researcher has strengthened my ability to listen, analyze information, and represent others, while my role as a mother keeps me focused on our community’s long-term well-being and primed to be an advocate for others.
I would ensure public input and transparency by actively encouraging residents to engage, whether by running for office, serving on boards, or discussing community issues with neighbors. If elected, I would hold quarterly town halls with informal meet-and-greets, providing opportunities for residents to ask questions, share concerns, and for me to share out relevant information.
I support policies that respect and celebrate Kennedale’s diversity, ensuring all residents are treated fairly regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, or background. By fostering an inclusive environment and embracing our community’s differences, we strengthen the city as a whole.
I have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution and will follow all laws and policies while serving. My focus is on ensuring public safety, protecting residents’ rights, and maintaining trust between the community and local government.
From my conversations with residents and personal experience, the city’s biggest issue is outdated and deteriorating infrastructure. Addressing it will require careful budgeting, disciplined spending, and prioritizing investments to ensure our roads, utilities, and facilities meet modern standards and serve our community safely and efficiently.