Our Campaign: A Commitment to Service, Not Politics

One of the core principles of this campaign is to highlight the resources, opportunities, and strengths our city already has to offer—rather than get caught up in partisan politics.

Leo Corona views his campaign not as a contest against opponents, but as an open interview for the office of Mayor. His focus is on running for the city—not against anyone. This campaign is grounded in ideas, solutions, and a commitment to public service, consistent with his core values—not political games.

Our goal is to inform, empower, and engage the community. We believe that when residents have access to accurate information and meaningful tools, they become vital partners in shaping a stronger future.

This section is dedicated to sharing documents, reports, and resources that reflect that mission. We invite you to explore the materials below and discover how, together, we can be the solution for a stronger, more successful city.

Citizen Resources

 

The City Council Citizens' Guide
Prepared by Leo Corona to assist you in preparing to speak before the City Council.
Resources Used:

  • Open Meetings Act Handbook 2024

  • Council Meeting Procedure Policy for the City of Gatesville, Texas (dated January 10, 2023)

Leo’s History of Expressing Concerns at City Council Meetings

 

 

Through Leo Corona voicing concerns about the accountability of Hotel Occupancy Funds with the Council, we now have a process in place for their distribution. This is one example that led to the Council passing a resolution for greater transparency and responsible financial management.

While Councilmembers now have official city email accounts, Leo is still advocating for individual city council email addresses to be posted on the city website.

Leo spoke after the former city manager resigned, offering A Key Ingredient for Success: An Effective City Council/City Manager Relationship resource by Kevin C. Duggan.

Local Government Resources 

Publications from Office of the Attorney General and Texas Municipal League, TX | Official Website

 

A Citizen’s Guide for Speaking Before the City Council

Disclaimer: This is not an official City of Gatesville, Texas document. This reference sheet was independently created using the Texas Open Meetings Act (OMA) and publicly available City memoranda. -by Leo Corona

What Is the Texas Open Meetings Act?

The Texas Open Meetings Act (OMA) is a state law that requires most meetings of government bodies — including city councils — to be open to the public.

Its purpose is simple:
Government decisions must be made openly, not behind closed doors.

Why It Matters to You

The OMA protects your right to:

  • Know when your City Council is meeting

  • Know what topics will be discussed

  • Attend and observe the meeting

  • See how your elected officials vote

  • Access meeting minutes and recordings

Transparency builds trust — and the law requires it.

What the Law Requires

1. Public Notice

Before a meeting happens, the City must post:

  • The date

  • The time

  • The location

  • The subjects to be discussed

This allows residents to decide whether they want to attend.

2. Open Meetings

City Council meetings must be open to the public.

Councilmembers cannot meet privately in small groups to discuss city business if it involves a quorum.

3. Limited Closed Sessions (Executive Sessions)

The law allows closed sessions only for specific reasons, such as:

  • Personnel matters

  • Legal consultation with the city attorney

  • Real estate negotiations

  • Economic development negotiations

However:

  • The reason must be announced in open session.

  • No final vote can happen in closed session.

  • All final decisions must be made in public.

4. Minutes & Recordings

The City must keep written minutes or a recording of open meetings. These records must be available to the public.

What the Law Does NOT Require

  • The Council is not required to respond or debate during citizen comments.

  • The Council cannot deliberate on topics that were not properly posted on the agenda.

  • Members cannot discuss city business outside of properly posted meetings if it involves a quorum.

What This Means for Gatesville

If elected Mayor and presiding officer of City Council meetings, my goal is to ensure:

  • Agendas are clear and understandable

  • Residents can hear and follow discussions

  • Votes are clearly explained before they happen

  • Closed sessions are used properly and sparingly

  • Meetings are welcoming, respectful, and transparent

The law sets the minimum standard.
Our goal should be to exceed it.

Open Meetings Act Training | Office of the Attorney General