Face To Face

Elodia "Loly" Garcia: Experience, Consistency, Continuity

Experience, continuity, consistency and the same spirit of community service that inspired her to run for office four years ago, is the driving force behind Elodia “Loly” Garcia’s bid for re-election as the Val Verde County tax assessor collector.
Garcia is running in the March 5 Democratic Party Primary Election. The winner of the race will face the Republican Party nominee in November.

• TT: What are the main challenges you’ve found in the Tax Assessor Collector’s office since you were elected?

• EG: While not calling them challenges, the DMV, under the approval and support of the Tax Assessor-Collector’s Department, is guided by the State.
Therefore, being an agent for the state, our office follows their guidelines. There are times that we have to explain to our constituent’s the different scenarios and the process, as it may pertain to them. We do not prepare our guidelines but abide by the State’s. While some things may seem complex, once we explain, the matter is settled to the constituent’s satisfaction.

• TT: What changes have you implemented since you were first elected?

• EG: Cross training was one of my first goals and it has been implemented. Some staff are
fully trained in both the Auto and Tax departments. I have changed some of the leadership in each department and have yet to have any turnover since then. We have changed the software we use for collection of taxes. I must underline that these are changes that must be approved by Commissioner’s Court. All changes need to be approved by them and the county attorney needs to approve all contracts. In the Auto Dept. the changes come from the State. In the election side, we work with the Secretary of State to update all new data daily. I need to follow the Tax Code, the DMV guidelines and the election rode.

• TT: What’s the main reason you’d tell the voters in Val Verde County that you are the most qualified individual for the job?

• EC: Experience would be the main reason and my reasons behind that statement are:
1) I love my job. 2) I know my job. I am a 24-year employee in all positions of the office. Being a first term tax assessor-collector has been an honor and a privilege. I have served with integrity and am grateful to Mrs. Beatriz Munoz for guiding me and preparing me for that first term.

• TT: If you are re-elected what be your short, mid and long-term goals for the office of the Tax Assessor Collector?

• EC: Goals go hand-in-hand whether they labeled short term, mid-term and long term.
I would want to continue growing in learning more when it becomes available.

• TT: Having served in office, what is inspiring you to run for re-election?

• EC: I have had tremendous positive feedback from my constituents. They know my work ethic and my commitment. Those that know me know that I am a family--oriented person and that I love my job. I truly get my inspiration from my constituents and of course, my family who knows me well and believe in me. I ask anyone who has any concerns or questions as to my qualifications or office questions to please call me. I will gladly speak to you.

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