Name: Don Tipps
Office Sought: Amarillo City Council Place 2
What is your age? 54
What is your educational background? Please list any degrees or certificates earned and any institutions attended.
Bachelor of Business Administration-West Texas A&M, Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow-American College, Associate in Claims-Insurance Institute of America
What is your occupation?
State Farm Insurance Agent
Please list any civic boards or commissions (non-profit, government, union, political, etc.) on which you have served as a board member or equivalent.
Amarillo City Council Place 2, American Red Cross, Amarillo Economic Development Corporation
Have you previously held or do you currently hold any elected office? If so, what office(s)?
Amarillo City Council Place 2
If your campaign has any online campaign resources where voters can learn more about you, such as social media accounts or a website, please list them below.
ReelectDonTipps.com; Facebook.com/electDonTipps
Why did you decide to run for this office in 2025?
Two years ago, I said it was time for me to get off the sidelines and help lead our community. I have been honored to serve on your Amarillo City Council in Place 2. We have accomplished a lot the last 2 years and I feel there is still much to do. The learning curve is steep and I have already tackled it. I am ready to work another 2 years.
If elected, what will be your top three priorities in office?
Even though we have accomplished much in these 3 areas, there is more to be done. My 3 priorities continue to be:
1) Public Safety: We cannot grow a city without the foundation of safety and security. This Council found the money in our budget to provide a historic raise of almost $10,000 for every police officer and firefighter. I will continue to focus on making sure we attract and retain the very best for our local heroes.
2) Infrastructure: Infrastructure throughout our city needs attention. We have addressed many of the issues; but they seem endless. The key is funding. I am dedicated to finding a way to develop a plan to carry our city into the next decade.
3) Communication: I am committed to continue transparent communication to our citizens. We have made progress with our communications department reporting to our citizens and also doing things out in the open. I will continue to be available to our citizens the next 2 years.
What is an issue you believe has gone overlooked in your race and how will you address it if elected?
Culture at City Hall. I am committed to helping foster a strong, constructive, team culture at City Hall. Our staff is the backbone to our organization. I helped implement a merit-based salary increase for our staff. This is only the beginning to reward excellence and foster an excellent culture within City Hall.
What is your position on the issue of taxpayer-funded lobbying? Please explain.
My stance has not changed since the last election. I am opposed to taxpayer-funded lobbying because it forces citizens to finance political advocacy they may disagree with. I feel government organizations that receive public funs should prioritize serving the public interest. Tax dollars should be used for essential public services that directly benefit the citizens.
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
I have proven myself the last 2 years. I would point to my track record and have the voters look at the accomplishments we have achieved. I would also have them look at how I have dealt with conflict or opposing positions. I will always strive for conflict resolution without allowing my emotions or others dictate an outcome. I will continue to put the city of Amarillo first in all my decision making.