Election Day: May 3, 2025 | Early Voting Begins: April 22
As the Rockwall County Election 2025 approaches, voters will soon decide key mayoral and city council races. With candidate filings finalized on February 14, here’s a breakdown of the local races in Rockwall, Heath, Fate, Royse City, and McLendon-Chisholm.
Rockwall: A Mayoral Shift & Council Shakeup
Mayor Trace Johannesen is stepping down after two years, and three candidates are vying for the role:
- Clarence Jorif – Current Place 3 councilmember and mayor pro tem, bringing experience and continuity.
- Tim McCallum – Currently serving as Place 1 councilmember, aiming to step into the mayor’s seat.
- Adam Kahn – A newcomer with less public exposure but looking to make an impact.
City Council Races in Rockwall:
- Place 1 (McCallum’s seat): Richard W. Henson, Eric S. Smith, Catherine Casteel, and Scott Johnson are running.
- Place 3 (Jorif’s seat): Melba Jeffus, a vocal advocate for growth concerns, faces Jules Corder IV.
- Place 5: Incumbent Dennis Lewis is challenged by Caren J. Williams and Tan Le.
With multiple candidates in key positions, Rockwall’s election will shape the city’s leadership and development strategy.
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Heath: Four Contested Council Seats, Unopposed Mayor
Mayor Jerimiah McClure is up for reelection in 2026, ensuring continuity in city leadership. However, the city council races are competitive:
- Place 1: Cindy Horne vs. Lea Lashley
- Place 2: Joe Runertino vs. Johnny Myers
- Place 4: Michelle Thurgood vs. Mike McClard
- Place 6: Incumbent Rich Krause vs. Mitch Ownby
With eight candidates vying for four seats, Heath voters will have a significant say in shaping city policies.
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Fate: Growth & New Leadership
Fate’s election is completely open, with no incumbents running.
- Mayor: Andrew Greenberg vs. Lorna Grove – Both are newcomers to the top seat.
- Place 4: Richard Maneval, George D. Lewis, and Emily Camacho face off in a three-way race.
- Place 6: Martha Huffman vs. Brett Bushnell, who switched races late in the filing period.
With seven candidates for three seats, Fate’s rapid growth and development will be central to this election.
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Royse City: No Contested Races
Royse City’s election is set, with all candidates running unopposed:
- Mayor: Janet Nichol, currently serving as Place 2 councilmember, will step up.
- Place 1: Incumbent Michael Holder retains his seat.
- Place 3: Russell Summers replaces outgoing Bruce Bradley.
- Place 5: Incumbent James Branch remains in office.
While not a competitive race, Royse City’s leadership remains steady as the city continues its expansion.
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McLendon-Chisholm: Full Council Refresh, No Contests
With no incumbents filing for re-election, McLendon-Chisholm will see an entirely new set of councilmembers:
- Place 1: Donald Goodwin
- Place 3: Erik Towry
- Place 5: John A. Powers
Mayor Bryan McNeal, elected in May 2024, remains in office, ensuring a mix of new and experienced leadership.
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Why This Election Matters
With 27 candidates on the ballot across Rockwall County, this election will shape the future of local governance. Key issues such as growth management, infrastructure, and community development are at stake.
📌 Want to hear directly from the candidates? We invite all candidates to share their views with The Rockwall Times! Email us at [email protected] to be featured in our election coverage.
Key Election Dates
- Early Voting: April 22 – April 30
- Election Day: May 3, 2025
📌 Check your voter registration status: Rockwall County Elections Office
📌 Find polling locations and early voting sites: Texas Secretary of State – Voter Information
How to Get Involved
- Stay informed with The Rockwall Times for updates on debates, candidate interviews, and election news.
- Follow us on social media for real-time updates and election discussions.
📌 What local issues matter most to you? Join the conversation in Rockwall Times Connect!
