Candidate Name: Mary Grace Thoennes
Occupation: National Commercial Construction Sales Director - BuildCentral
How long have you lived in Southlake?
I bought land in 1999 on Jellico Circle. A year later, I submitted my design and worked with the city to develop the property. I was the general contractor overseeing all aspects of the construction.
What originally brought you to town?
In 1999, Southlake’s growth was starting. The leaders of Southlake where making decisions about the direction for the city. I wanted to be part of the growth. That same year saw the grand opening of Town Square and the whole town was filled with excitement for the future. My daughter was born three years later and is proud to be a native-born Southlake resident.
What inspired you to run for this position?
"I love living in Southlake. Community service has always been my passion. For 20 years I have been actively involved in Southlake civic and political issues with the goal of creating effective change. My family and I feel that the time is now for me to serve and represent the residents of Southlake."
What in your background prepared you for this responsibility?
"My service to this community began with Southlake Program for the Involvement of Neighborhoods (SPIN) and Neighborhood Southlake.
I partnered with EraLee Caldwell, to lead the petition for the sale of wine in Southlake. We successfully got it on the ballot and voters made the choice to have wine sales in Southlake. Cheers!
Throughout next 20 years, I expanded my volunteer efforts and served as a board member for the following organizations: the Crime Control Prevention District, Southlake Executive Forum and ProPlayers Foundation. I am or have been a committee member for a number of local non-profit organizations: Bob Jones Nature Center, Kids Matter International, Greater Southlake Women’s Society, PKD, Southlake Newcomers, Southlake Rotary and Southlake Business Buddies.
I am a graduate of the Southlake Citizen Academy where I completed an extensive course covering Southlake police and fire procedures.
Professionally I, support my family as the National Commercial Construction Sales Director for a research firm specializing in two data areas: feasibility studies to evaluate land use development and monitor the flow of national commercial construction projects."
What do you hope to bring to this role?
"My vision is to provide a safe, secure and financially stable place to live.
Ensure safe schools for our children. I will work with the Carroll Independent School District to provide the support and resources for school safety.
Provide efficient government.
Maintain and provide equipment for the Department of Public Safety to perform their duties.
Promote thoughtful development. I will have a mindful focus to continue excellence on remaining developments.
Encourage effective roadways. I will work with the State to analyze traffic volume and monitor the continuation of roundabouts and deceleration lanes on main streets.
Protect open spaces and maintain the “small town” feeling.
And secure the financial well-being of Southlake."
What makes you different from other candidates?
"When I see a need, I take action. I am an enthusiastic participant, collaborating with others to develop and implement a plan. I do the work and get it done. I have a background as a licensed financial advisor, and evaluate options and potential outcomes based on their economic impact."
What do you hope to accomplish if you are elected into your desired position?
"My commitment as a council member is to make decision that will positively impact Southlake. I take very seriously this stewardship so that all Southlake children will enjoy the blessings of this community. And when asked where they will raise their family, they answer 'Positively Southlake.'”
What else do you want people to know about you?
"I have a 16 year-old daughter who is a third-year member of the Varsity Color Guard team at Carroll Senior High School. Throughout the year I am chaperoning, moving props on the field for Friday night half-time performances and fundraising for Color Guard and Band.
Natalie was recently crowned as 'Miss Outstanding Teen Westlake' and will compete in the 'Miss Outstanding Teen Texas' in June.
I especially enjoy bringing together members of the Southlake community for charity events and local gatherings."