Butler Eyes District 2 Seat, Speaks About Public Service and Economic Growth

SAN ANGELO, TX — Dudra Butler, a longtime San Angelo resident and retired school social worker, is running for the Single Member District 2 seat on the San Angelo City Council in the upcoming May 3 election.

Butler, who spent 26 years with San Angelo ISD working with at-risk students and families, said her experience connecting families to resources and services uniquely positions her to serve the community.

“I just had always said that when I retired and had more time I was going to do that, and I feel like at 68 that I still have something to give. I want to be involved, and that is the reason why I’m running,” Butler said.

This is not Butler’s first time on the ballot. She previously ran for city council and the school board at the age of 24, narrowly missing both in runoff elections.

In her interview, Butler identified affordable housing and economic development as concerns raised by voters. She said expanding the housing market would help grow the city’s tax base, and she supports efforts to recruit new businesses to San Angelo.

“Certainly we — one issue that has come up repeatedly — we need affordable housing. That is a way that we can grow that tax base,” Butler said.

She also said filling the vacant leadership position at the City of San Angelo Development Corporation (COSADC) would be a priority.

“Absolutely,” Butler said when asked whether COSADC needs a permanent director. “We need to fill that role.” She agreed with the interviewer’s comparison that operating without a director was like a football team without a coach.

On the topic of public safety, Butler expressed support for raising police officer salaries and said she is open to difficult budget decisions if necessary.

“I am certainly for our policemen, our first responders,” Butler said. “I think that we will have to do what needs to be done.”

Transparency, Butler said, will be a central focus of her leadership if elected.

“I don’t think people have a problem with spending money if we know where every dollar is going,” Butler said. “I will tell you I've already been meeting with people and have been retired, I've got time. I can promise everyone that when I get those calls, I will respond and I will make the time to hear you. I will be a leader that listens." 

Butler is running against John Bariou and Joe M. Self Jr. in District 2. The seat is currently held by Thomas “Tom” N. Thompson, who is running for mayor.

The May 3 election will also include races for mayor, District 4 and District 6, along with a bond proposal to improve the San Angelo Coliseum.

For voter registration and polling information, visit votetomgreencounty.gov.