In April of 2014, Flint, Michigan’s water became undrinkable. The crisis began when the city changed their water supply system from Detroit’s System to the Flint River. This switch resulted in poor water quality and health issues.
Hair loss, rashes, and itchy skin became apparent for many residents, as government officials constantly ignored the community’s complaints of foul smelling, discoloured, and off-tasting water for 18 months. This crisis led to over 50,000 people losing their jobs in the automotive industry. Four government officials were fired, though dozens faced lawsuits and backlash.
The Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) is commonly ignored and not talked about as an important part of our community.
The water board is in charge of but not limited to supplying water to over two million North Texans, and keeping the Trinity River safe and in control from flooding. They also create places for individuals to explore, such as the Trinity Trails, Airfield Falls, Twin Points Park, and Eagle Mountain Park. TRWD provides educational opportunities to inspire the community to protect and conserve the water supply.
The TRWD has five seats on their board, and this year, two out of three seats eligible for reelection are open for new members to join the board.
Board members James Hill and Mary Kelleher will not file for reelection, leaving those seats open. Leah King, board president and incumbent, plans to continue with another term and has started her campaign plan. Paxton Motheral and incumbent C.B. Team will not be up for reelection until 2027 due to the fact they weren’t elected until 2023.
In the 2025 election, the three candidates with the most votes will be earning the position on the water board and will be responsible for serving the board for a four-year term.
In addition to King, there are three citizens running for these positions. Skylar O’neal, a principal at Fort Worth Summit Cove Investments, Jonathan Killebrew, an executive for Metro Code Analysis, and Andrew Brinker, a FWISD Science Teacher and TCC Biology professor.
Andrew Brinker, a former teacher at PHS, shares his campaign plan and why he finds it important to run.
“I am running for the Tarrant Regional Water District Board because I have been deeply involved with the Trinity River for over two decades—first as a fisherman, then as a researcher and educator. Since 2017, I have worked professionally with the Tarrant Regional Water District, conducting ecological research and engaging my students in hands-on studies of its biodiversity,” Brinker supplies.
Beyond this, he wants to “ensure that decisions about the river include its ecology, supporting projects, like the Marty Leonard Cedar Creek Wetland, and integrating habitat considerations into developments like Panther Island Pavilion.”
“As someone who is at the river almost daily, I bring firsthand knowledge of its health, challenges, and potential, and I want to use that experience to contribute to a well-balanced and sustainable future for our water resources,” he finishes.
Brinker intends on using his relationships and reputation to run his campaign.
“Through my work at the Fort Worth Zoo, Texas Christian University, Paschal High School, Tarrant County College, TRWD, and the Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences, I have developed strong connections with people who care deeply about the Trinity River and its future,” he affirms.
Brinker plans on running a donation free campaign, and he is relying on people to recognize the value of having a biologist and environmental scientist on the board.
He says, “Rather than traditional campaign spending, I am focused on engaging with the community, sharing my knowledge, and ensuring that voters know they have a candidate who prioritizes science, sustainability, and the responsible management of our water.”
Though he is very passionate, Brinker does not see himself making significant changes because he believes that the current board has done a remarkable job. His goal is to contribute a new scientific approach that can support the TRWD board and their employees in making vital decisions to protect resources.
“I hope to provide valuable ecological insight to help guide sustainable water management and long-term planning,” Brinker expresses.
Voters have until April 3rd to register; Tarrant County voters can cast an early vote from April 22nd through the 29th. Election day is set for May 3rd.
To be eligible for voting, you must be a Texas resident (at least 18 years of age) who resides in the water district’s tax area including Fort Worth, Mansfield, Arlington, and Northeastern Tarrant County suburbs.
