About Leo Corona and a Vision for Gatesville
Thank you for visiting and taking a moment to learn more about me, my family, and why Gatesville means so much to us.
My Background and Commitment to Service
My family and I were welcomed to Gatesville in 2012, and what began as a place to live soon became home. After retiring from a 20-year career in the United States Army in 2015, I looked for ways to continue serving, and Gatesville gave me that opportunity through volunteer work, civic involvement, and community engagement. Service has shaped every chapter of my life, and I am grateful to continue that commitment in a community that has meant so much to my family.
I have always believed in being hands-on, accessible, and ready to help wherever needed. I completed the Gatesville Police Department’s Citizen Police Academy and remained actively involved in community safety, youth support, and local improvement efforts. To me, effective leadership starts with listening, showing up, and staying connected to the people you serve.
Experience, Preparation, and Community Involvement
I actively study how local government works. I attend and review City Council meetings, track agenda items, and stay on top of decisions that impact our residents.
To strengthen my preparation for public service, I completed formal training through the Texas Attorney General’s Office on both the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Texas Public Information Act, reinforcing the transparency and accountability our community deserves.
Additionally, completed emergency management training through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Management Institute, including coursework in the Incident Command System (ICS), the National Incident Management System (NIMS), and the National Response Framework (NRF). This training strengthened my understanding of preparedness, coordination, and effective community response during emergencies.
In recognition of sustained service and civic involvement, I was honored to be named Gatesville Citizen of the Year for 2025 by the Gatesville Chamber of Commerce and Exchangite of the Year for 2026 by the Exchange Club of Gatesville. I accept those honors with gratitude and as a reflection of the service-minded spirit that makes this community special.
After the 2024 election, I remained committed to year-round community engagement. I created LeoCorona.net, a non-political community bulletin board that helps residents stay informed about local events, resources, and opportunities throughout the year.
A Vision for Gatesville
My vision for Gatesville is rooted in transparent government, accountable leadership, clear communication, and responsible decision-making. Strong communities are built when residents know their voices are heard and their concerns matter. City leadership should be approachable, informed, and committed to serving the entire community with integrity and respect.
This campaign is about moving Gatesville forward with purpose and stability. It is about strengthening communication between city leadership and residents, supporting responsible growth, protecting the character of our community, and preserving the values that make Gatesville a place people are proud to call home.
Gatesville is built on resilience, pride, and shared purpose. Through consistent service, preparation, and community engagement, I have worked to earn the trust of this community and prepare to lead with clarity and integrity. I would be truly honored to earn your support and the opportunity to serve as your next Mayor.
Community Safety
Drug prevention and access to essential resources remain top priorities for our families. I am committed to tackling these challenges head-on and working together to build a safer, healthier, and stronger Gatesville for all.
Working Together
We must also ensure that Gatesville is better prepared and more resilient. That means working closely with Coryell County officials to equip the Gatesville Volunteer Fire Department with the tools, training, and resources they need to protect our residents and infrastructure.
Infrastructure
Our city's aging infrastructure is a serious issue that can't be ignored. If we keep kicking the can down the road, we’ll face costly consequences—steep rate hikes and missed opportunities for growth. My promise to you is simple: I will lead with transparency, keep you informed, and tackle these challenges head-on.
Economic Growth
While economic growth brings opportunity, many residents are concerned about the pace of change—and how it might affect our small-town character and quality of life.
What Your Neighbors Are Saying About Leo
"Having spent a good amount of time at the County Commissioners Court, I can say that Leo has been very observant of the proceedings and has made some very insightful suggestions and comments. They range from reutilizing property, expenditures and processes."
Joseph Alan Mathis
"So many are ready to be engaged with their local community and improve the culture of our small town. Many are already working toward positive changes for our town. Thank you, Leo for leading the way."
Kristina Cute
“I have known this man and his wife for over a decade... he has done more than serve our country along with his wife... he committed his soul, life and body to service to our country and so has his wife.. I have currently been serving in the Army since 2002 and I am more than proud to call him a brother in arms... I know him for who he is... and all he cares about is his soldiers when he had them.. during his retirement when asked what he would miss the most, his response was “I will miss being with and training Soldiers”... now being retired he does everything he can to make sure the people are heard and wants to be a Shepard for the people and let their voice be heard... he is to proud to tout his own military history... but this man has served honorably, been through multiple dangerous deployments and kept volunteering to serve his country... I wish and pray more men and women like Leo Corona would stand up and serve in the military if they are able to... because we need it in our country right now! And you absolutely need a leader as a Mayor that will LISTEN to the PEOPLE... but also ACT on their behalf!!”
David Caroll
"This beautiful man has the biggest heart for the Gatesville community. He supports so many positive organizations. NOT for a pat on the back but for those of us who want to be represented. Way to go Leo!".
Carolyn Nuessen
“Making this a separate post from the last one since I wanted that to be universal to everyone.
If anyone wants my recommendations on who to vote for, I personally recommend voting Republican for each partisan ticket and for the non-partisan mayoral election, I endorse Leo Corona. He is a good man with the community in his mind and a big heart and the will to get things done.
Please do not turn my comments section into a giant debate, I just wanted to put who I endorse out for people to see, but ultimately, you should make your own decisions as well and ultimately just vote, no matter who. Thank you.”
Thomas H
“Saw Leo Corona walking up and down the neighborhood passing out flyers personally regarding the mayor position. Haven't seen that yet from a local politician. Hell, I don't even know what our other options even look like, yet this guy and what I'm assuming was his kid were on my front porch, putting in the work. Combine that with the numerous times I've heard of him helping the community and I can assure you that makes a statement on its own.”
I recommend Mr. Leo Corona, completely and without reservations!"
Damon Martin Jr
"He helps with almost everything he can in the community. Always kind to everyone."
Clint Damron
"I know why he volunteered to serve. It's because he cares deeply for his community. That's why we're supporting him for Mayor."
Glenn Jeffers
"today, on a moments notice after receiving a frantic phone call from me, he immediately got our address and situation, and was at my home and took The HOP ride to the hospital, where my disabled Mom is at.
I felt confident in his assessment of the situation and in his ability to engage all parties involved to bring the situation to an amicable agreement.
As Mayor of our small town of Gatesville, Candidate Leo Corona, I am sure, will bring a fresh new approach to old establishments, implement new pathways to secure economic security and ensure our Gatesville Police Department and Fire Department have the communities support and respect.
Also, Candidate Leo Corona is a great family man with a stellar military service record.
He has my vote!”
Norma Iris Montalvo
“Fully support this man for Mayor. I may not live in the area to vote for him, but those that do know that you will have a very hard worker for you in Leo Corona. I served with him overseas, and have always known him as a selfless servant to the people he works for. He gets his energy from finding solutions for his fellow citizens.”
Tex Williams
"He will be an outstanding Mayor. Very people oriented person and great leader. Served with him in the Army.”
Terry Mann
"My husband met him while walking our dogs and he was also very impressed with him."
Kathy Reeves
“I don’t post on here a lot, but with the upcoming election for mayor I wanted to share an interaction I had with a candidate. During the last election I was lucky enough to talk to Leo Corona about an issue I was having getting a huge hole on Valley View fixed. The city just kept coming out and filling it full of dirt, and it was causing our road to buckle. The city blamed Fort Gates water and Fort Gates blamed the city, either it was us residents who were dealing with torn up cars. When I tell you Leo took my information and address and had the problem fixed within 2 weeks I mean it. He had fixed what my neighbors and I had complained about for over a year in 2 weeks. For that reason Leo will have my vote in whatever he runs for, because I have seen him put community to better it? Leo Corona is a veteran who sacrificed for this country, and I truly believe he could be what Gatesville needs to see some positive change in our city.”
Megan Glass
"Leo Corona is a Veteran who is always out among the crowds taking part in events and supporting the community. He truly has the best interest of the residents of Gatesville in the ideas and structure of his campaign. I hope everyone in Gatesville will take the time to see what he is all about and talk to him about his ideas when you do see him actively taking part in community events."
Steve Noonan
"Hope you win Gatesville needs you, brother."
Ray Bittinger
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