AEDC Becomes Hot Topic in Republican City Council Debate

What should the future be for the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation? That was one of the primary topics on the minds of candidates and votes alike during Tuesday’s city council debate at First Family Church.

The debate, sponsored by High Plains Republican Women, saw numerous candidates for mayor and city council take the stage. Candidates each took turns answering a number of questions from moderators, many of which related to the AEDC.

The topics on the issue ranged wildly. City council candidate Leif Kertis called for more controls on the AEDC, while Place 3 candidate David Prescott said that the AEDC was important to the city’s economy. Meanwhile, Place 1 candidate Patrick Miller expressed opposition to DOGE style policies aimed at the AEDC.

Mayoral candidates Jason Herrick and Cole Stanley also discussed the AEDC and its association with The Range at length. Herrick said the AEDC’s transfers to The Range were legal and he defended the organization. Meanwhile, Stanley said The Range controlled a public asset and called on Herrick to return the money the organization took from the AEDC.

Kelly Giles, Randall County Republican Chairman, thanked voters for attending and encouraged participation in the upcoming election cycle at the close of the forum.

Early voting will begin on April 22nd and Election Day is May 3rd.