VISION FOR THE FUTURE Helotes’ growth strategy is guided by a philosophy of intentional development. “Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should do something. And with that, I think a lot of times communities either develop because they have to or they feel they need to, and so they sign every possible deal that they can and in the process, as applied to municipality, they end up losing their identity,” Whitehead shares. “When I was elected four years ago, my goal was to secure the financial stability of our community, so that we’re not in a position where we have to do something. We’re going to develop because we want to, and we want to partner with the right businesses to bring the right amount of services and the right kinds of services to our community,” he adds. This selective mindset prioritizes projects that align with the town’s core values of family, safety, and prosperity. New Economic Development Director Scott Hardwick brings a fresh perspective, emphasizing adaptability. “I do believe in lifelong learning... My background is in economic development, so I’ve worked in the private sector and public sector in various positions,” Hardwick explains. His diverse experience will 106 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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