University Star

The University Star is endorsing Place 6 incumbent Shane Scott for a second term on the San Marcos City Council.

Scott has consistently been on the side of students, which is reflected in his votes on city council issues. Scott often holds what could be considered popular opinions among students, and it is commendable that he does not waver on his decisions.

Scott voted in favor of The Retreat, a student housing development that was highly disputed among San Marcos residents. Scott defended his decision at two debates this month, saying the construction of The Retreat was the “right decision at the right time,” and described the apartment complex as “managed chaos.”

The hassle of commuting to campus is a common complaint among students. Parking is scarce, and the buses are often full during the busier times of the day. Scott said at an Oct. 22 debate that he wants to put students closer to campus so they can walk to class instead of driving or taking the buses.

Whether residents like it or not, Texas State is growing, and so is the student body. Building more apartment complexes closer to campus would help alleviate traffic problems throughout town if students were able to walk to class. It would also keep students out of single-family neighborhoods, which is a common complaint among residents.

Scott was opposed to the San Marcos City Council’s ordinance banning the public consumption and display of alcohol in city parks. Drinking is an activity synonymous with the San Marcos River and is a popular activity among many students and the city’s tourism and economy will take a turn for the worse once the ban goes into effect. Scott was outvoted, but it is still reassuring to know he was not in favor of a ban that will have such a negative impact on the city.

While it is good to see a Texas State alumnus eager to take on a leadership role in the city, Greg Frank is not the right choice for Place 6. One would think that as an alumnus Frank would support the issues that would improve the quality of life of students. However, it seems that Frank is more focused on earning the votes of San Marcos residents who are concerned with keeping students out of single-family neighborhoods.

Frank has said he wants to provide a voice for residents in neighborhoods, which is admirable. However, Frank believes the construction of The Retreat “injected” students into neighborhoods in a detrimental way and is concerned about people selling their houses and leaving as a result.
Conversely, Scott will actively work to meet the needs of students and embrace their role in the community, especially as students comprise a large portion of the city’s population. Scott is the best candidate to fill the Place 6 city council seat.