WEST ODESSA, Texas — Three people have filed for different seats on the Ector County Utility District Board of Directors, according to a press release sent to NewsWest 9 on Monday.
The release stated that Jesus Sanchez is running for Seat 1, Darrell Pando is running for Seat 3 and John Kelley is running for Seat 4.
Who is Jesus Sanchez?
According to the release, Sanchez is a local business owner and has been a member of the community for 18 years. He wants to ensure ECUD runs efficiently and to spend the taxpayer and customer money they receive wisely. He aims to lower water prices and ensure responsible board oversight while expanding ECUD services to new customers in West Odessa.
“Our community needs lower water prices, and we need to make sure the future includes responsible board oversight at ECUD,” said Sanchez.
Who is Darrell Pando?
According to the release, Pando wants to bring a new face into local politics, being a West Odessan for seven years with friends and family in the community.
Pando wants to hear from families and the community on how they go about getting their water. He thinks it’s wrong that there are homes that cannot just turn on the faucet to get clean running ECUD water. Pando stated in the release that he is committed to addressing the long-standing water issues that plague West Odessa.
"There are more homes in West Odessa that do not have access to ECUD water than those that do. These are real struggles that you hear about in 3rd world countries, not a city in America,” said Pando.
Who is John Kelley?
According to the release, Kelley is an active community organizer. He wants to bring a change to the ECUD Board.
He is running to amplify the voices of West Odessa residents who have long been underserved.
“I’m committed to representing the interests of our entire community on the ECUD Board. It’s time for a change, and I’m ready to fight for fair and equal representation,” said Kelley.
When is the election?
The ECUD Board of Directors election is slated for Nov. 5. Early voting begins on Oct. 21.