Merrie Fox
On The Issues
Elect a representative that shares the concerns of you and your community
While our state celebrates abundance, House District 73 includes thousands of families who are
struggling to make ends meet. The cost of living is rising, public schools are struggling financially, and unprecedented growth is affecting our resources. I’m running to put the power back into the hands of the people by representing the needs and concerns of your community.
Education
Public schools bolster communities and must be designated as a priority.
Funding Our Public Schools
Strong public schools are the heartbeat of thriving communities. When schools are adequately funded, students receive the quality education they deserve through smaller class sizes, exceptional teachers, expand mental health and academic support, and access to arts, technology, and career programs. These investments don’t just benefit students; they strengthen entire communities by preparing future workers, supporting the local economy, and creating informed, engaged citizens. Well-funded schools raise property values and build a sense of pride and connection across neighborhoods. Our educators work tirelessly to shape the next generation, and they deserve the resources and respect necessary to do their jobs effectively. When we prioritize public education, we invest in more than classrooms—we invest in opportunity, stability, and the long-term success of our communities. Strong schools build strong futures, and that begins with fully funding and supporting public education for all.
Action Points​
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Advocate for adequately funded public schools and competitive educator salaries
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Uphold the professional authority of educators through supportive policies
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Ensure classrooms remain free from district-sponsored religious influence
Water
Water resources and their natural systems must be managed with intention.
Protecting Our Water
Protecting our water resources for long-term community is a complex issue with significant challenges. Effective water policy must be guided by all stakeholders to balance responsible management with the needs of residents. As a longtime Hill Country resident, I understand and value the importance of our natural water systems to our quality of life and local economy. Tourism and agriculture are major economic drivers throughout House District 73, and careful management of our water sources is essential. Factors within our control – excessive development, inadequate water treatment requirements, and over-pumping by commercial wells – can be mitigated, but only if elected officials are willing to advocate for residents rather than developers.
Action Points​
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Require wastewater treatment to remove more phosphorus and nitrogen before discharge into streams and rivers.
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Empower groundwater conservation districts to monitor and regulate over-pumping by commercial wells.
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Grant county officials authority to make water management decisions that reflect the specific needs of their communities.
Development
Living in the Hill Country is a dream. Let’s keep it that way.
Responsible Development
Growth in Comal and Hays counties must be managed carefully to preserve the Hill Country’s natural beauty, protect vital water resources, and maintain the quality of life that draws people here in the first place. Unchecked development strains infrastructure, increases traffic, threatens water availability, and puts pressure on schools and emergency services. Without thoughtful planning, we risk losing the open spaces, scenic views, and sense of community that make the Hill Country unique. Responsible growth management allows us to balance economic opportunity with environmental stewardship—ensuring that new development supports, rather than overwhelms, our communities. By empowering local officials to make informed decisions, we can guide growth in a way that protects our natural resources, sustains our infrastructure, and safeguards the Hill Country for future generations.
Action Points​
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Advocate for legislation granting local authority to elected county officials.
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Enable informed decision-making on development factors including tree preservation, lot size, water availability, and location of new growth.