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Candidate Q&A series | Wallace Town Council
Incumbent Tasha Herring
Appointed to the Wallace Town Council in 2023, Tasha Herring stepped into public service with a mission to help shape the town’s future. In this Q&A, Herring reflects on her journey into local government, the importance of diversity on the council, and how she plans to support Wallace’s growth while keeping residents engaged and informed.
Can you share your journey as a council member with the town of Wallace? What motivated you to enter politics, and what accomplishment are you most proud of during your time in service?
My political journey officially began in March 2023. Mayor Jason Wells nominated me and the Wallace Town Council agreed for me to fill a seat on the council after the unexpected death of our beloved Wanetta Carlton. After multiple conversations with Wanetta’s sister, Darlene Leysath, I found that Wanetta had a heart that connected to the Town of Wallace. At that moment I knew that I had to accept the challenge and continue what she started.
I knew I could never be who she was so I decided to start a campaign in her honor.
The Steps of Progress will be a bricked walkway at Dobbins Park. Focusing on the growth and progression of the community where we were raised, the school we attended and the lessons learned along the way.
With Wallace experiencing such rapid growth in both residential and commercial sectors, how will you ensure infrastructure keeps pace? In your opinion, what is the most pressing challenge we face right now?
By constantly staying in touch with the citizens, and listening to their wants. One of the great things I love about our council is the diversity of members. Our board is not one sided. As our community grows, the diversity of our board keeps a better understanding. Diversity means we are able to keep our infrastructure projects geared to our community needs. One of the most pressing challenges we are facing right now is keeping up with the community needs and understanding.
Growth often brings funding challenges. How do you plan to fund growth-related infrastructure without placing an unfair burden on taxpayers?
I believe we should explore every possible avenue to seek funding for upcoming projects. Some of these examples could include fund raisers, private donations and grant options
What is your take on livestreaming and recording all public meetings? How important is it to you that budget documents are easily accessible for our residents?
Transparency brings trust, When the public sees and hears open conversations and planning from the council, it reduces questions and fear,
I am in favor of livestreaming and recording all public meetings. Even though we are experiencing growth, we have citizens who are not able to meet in person for a number of reasons. Also, livestreaming all public meetings would allow transparency.
How do you ensure residents are involved in major decisions?
I have suggested that recorded messages be generated and dispersed by phone. Mailings, including churches and local civic groups.
When it comes to budget allocation, how will you balance spending between essential services like fire protection and sewer maintenance, versus quality-of-life enhancements such as parks and bike lanes?
All departments are equally important. By collaborating with my fellow board members, department directors and stakeholders, we will collectively decide on the most pressing options first and move forward to other items of interest as funding allows.
