GROVES, Texas — The race for mayor in the City of Groves is heating up, as incumbent Mayor Chris Borne faces a challenge from Groves native Michael Boudreaux.
Borne hopes to be re-elected for his third term while Boudreaux, who is new to politics, says voters should give him a chance.
While Boudreaux and Borne agree that infrastructure is the biggest issue facing the city, they plan to work with the council to improve it in their own way.
"Instead of going to Facebook and social media and typing complaints, I figured I would put my name in the hat, and if I get there maybe I have an opportunity to help change things," said Boudreaux.
Boudreaux, a 49-year-old Groves native, works as a maintenance mechanic and gunsmith.
"I used to own infidel tactical over here in groves. I currently do leather work in the side," said Boudreaux. "I work every day so I'm trying to get here after work as soon as I get off. I've been taking off early."
The army veteran believes a fresh fresh face could help point the city in a new political direction.
"We want to try to bring more commerce to groves and build the city up. In order to do that we have to fix infrastructure first," said Boudreaux.
When political races begin to come down to the wire sometimes it's common to see sharp words fly between candidates. However, no such thing can be found in this race.
"I think Mayor Borne is doing a good job, I think he's doing the best he can. I'm not saying I'd do anything different, just maybe a different way to go about it that's all," said Boudreaux.
Mayor Borne is also choosing to remain cordial, while also being quick to get a few jokes in.
"Michael Boudreaux has been a gracious opponent, he's a nice guy. Unfortunately he's running against me, so I hope he loses!" said a laughing Borne.
Mayor Borne is seeking his third term as Mayor, and he agrees that improving city infrastructure should be the top priority.
"We've started projects on local infrastructure. We've gotten certain grants that have repaired streets and drainage lines," said Mayor Borne.
Borne says funding is limited for these projects and the council is doing the best it can.
"We don't have any major industrial which hurts us on the tax front. We don't have a lot of new construction, we can't grow our base. What we are relying on is people coming in, tearing down old structures, building new ones, finding a new way to bring in new things to the city," said Mayor Borne.
While Boudreaux and Mayor Bourne's visions may differ, their messages to voters remain the same. Get out and vote.