Former Amarillo Mayor Paul Harpole speaks during a promotional video for Kids, Inc./Screenshot via Kids, Inc. YouTube
Former Amarillo Mayor Paul Harpole has returned as an active participant in this year’s election cycle, albeit in a lower-profile role than in some previous elections.
This year, Harpole is serving as the campaign treasurer for Amarillo College Regent Michele Fortunato, who is seeking re-election to another six-year term on the board of regents. In addition to Harpole’s appointment as Fortunato’s campaign treasurer, the former mayor also donated $250 to Fortunato’s campaign.
Harpole served as Amarillo mayor from 2011 through 2017, retiring from office in an election that saw attorney Ginger Nelson — a Harpole-endorsed candidate — elected as his successor. Prior to his service as mayor, Harpole also served on the Amarillo City Commission.
Alongside his support of Fortunato, Harpole also contributed to two City Council candidates this year — Freda Powell, a candidate for mayor, and Katt Massey, a candidate for City Council Place 3. Notably, Powell was also endorsed by Fortunato and received a contribution from the AC Regent.
Fortunato is facing five opponents in her bid for re-election this year: Jay L. Barrett, Jason Foglesong, Mike Yazbek, Brady Clark, and Irene Hughes. The top three vote-getters from among this field will be elected to the Board of Regents.
Election Day will take place on Saturday, May 6. Early voting begins Monday, April 24.