With early voting set to begin May 18 for the May 26 Republican primary runoff for Kendall County Judge, candidate Ricky Gleason is making his closing argument to voters: the county needs leadership that listens first, plans ahead, and safeguards the Hill Country way of life. Gleason, a lifelong Kendall County resident and financial advisor, advanced to the runoff after finishing first in a three-way March 3 primary with 3,979 votes, or 40.94 percent, short of the majority needed to avoid a runoff. Because no Democrat filed, the runoff winner will be unopposed in November and assume the county's top executive role.
Gleason's campaign centers on what he calls a "CEO mindset" for county government, drawing on his experience as a partner and financial advisor at Prime Capital Financial and co-founder of Forge Business Brokerage. He previously served two terms on the Boerne Planning and Zoning Commission. "In Texas, the County Judge is effectively the CEO of the county," Gleason said. "That role calls for someone who builds consensus, manages a budget responsibly, plans for what is coming, and respects the people who pay the bills." He emphasized a collaborative approach: "I am a big believer in not being the smartest guy in the room. Strong leadership listens first, collaborates second, and acts with integrity always."
Gleason's policy platform is organized around a three-horizon planning framework designed to address Kendall County's rapid growth along the Interstate 10 corridor and the Texas Triangle. The first horizon, 0 to 3 years, focuses on operational fixes for immediate safety, mobility, and emergency response needs without adding unnecessary regulation. The second horizon, 3 to 10 years, sequences infrastructure investments where mobility and water intersect to prevent costly mistakes. The third horizon, 10 years and beyond, emphasizes long-term stewardship of water resources, property rights, and the rural character that defines Kendall County.
Water is identified as the single greatest long-term challenge. Gleason has called for proactive collaboration with neighboring Hill Country counties through the Priority Groundwater Management Area, arguing that water systems, flood risk, and transportation networks do not stop at county lines. He has also made support for first responders a centerpiece, pledging to bolster volunteer fire departments and EMS teams that he describes as "the backbone of public safety in Kendall County."
Gleason's local roots run deep. Raised in Kendall County, he grew up riding his horse to town, working at the county fairgrounds, tossing pizzas at Naples Pizza Kitchen, and playing football for Boerne High School. He started his career as a bank teller and worked his way up to financial advisor before returning to raise his family. He has served on the boards of the Boys and Girls Club of Kendall County, the 100 Club of Kendall County, and The Centurions of Kendall County, and as president of the board of Hope for Heroes. He and his family are active members of First Baptist Church in Boerne. "Kendall County is where I grew up, and it is where my wife and I are raising our kids," he said. "I am running to make sure this is still a place they are proud to call home."
The race has implications for how Kendall County manages growth, protects water, and supports emergency services. A candidate forum between Gleason and incumbent Shane Stolarczyk is scheduled for May 8 at 6 p.m. at Comfort Lobby Coffee Shop. Early voting runs May 18-22, and Election Day is May 26. Kendall County participates in the Countywide Polling Place Program, allowing any registered voter to cast a ballot at any open vote center. Voters can find polling locations and sample ballots through the Kendall County Elections Office.
