Marble Falls City Council election: Place 4

The race for the Place 4 seat on the Marble Falls City Council features current Place 2 Councilor Karlee Hubble and former Councilor Rene Rosales Sr. The winner will serve a two-year term. 

The Place 4 seat is currently held by Bryan Walker, who chose not to run for re-election.

Early voting is now through April 29. Election Day is May 3. Read more about school and city elections on the DailyTrib.com elections page. 

DailyTrib.com asked Hubble and Rosales Sr. for brief biographies as well as the same three core questions, to which they provided written responses via email.

Bios have been edited for space. The complete responses from the candidates follow.

KARLEE HUBBLE

Hubble currently holds the Place 2 seat on the Marble Falls City Council, having been elected for her first term in 2023 in a contested race. She is the property manager of the Prose Thunder Rock apartment complex in Marble Falls and is raising her two children in the city.

She has lived in the Highland Lakes area since 2014, save for a hiatus while studying at Sul Ross University in Alpine. She moved to Marble Falls after graduating in 2018.

“I first ran for City Council because I wanted to advocate for my children and their future,” Hubble said. “I wanted to be a voice for families and for thoughtful, intentional growth that benefits everyone. I’m running again because that mission hasn’t changed. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, but there is more work to be done. I want to continue building a Marble Falls that works for current residents and future generations alike.”

QUESTION 1: What are your views on the rapid development in Marble Falls?

HUBBLE: Marble Falls is growing quickly, and while growth brings opportunity, it must be managed carefully. 

I believe in responsible, strategic development that supports our infrastructure, protects the natural beauty of our area, and maintains the character of our community. Growth should enhance the quality of life for residents, not overwhelm it.

QUESTION 2: What do you see as the top three primary issues the city is currently facing?

HUBBLE: 

1. Infrastructure & public services—As we grow, we need to ensure our roads, water systems, and emergency services are equipped to meet increased demand.
2. Affordable & diverse housing—We need housing options that work for families, young professionals, and seniors alike.
3. Smart growth planning—Development should align with a long-term vision that prioritizes sustainability, community input, and thoughtful zoning.

QUESTION 3: What is your ideal vision for Marble Falls in 2030?

HUBBLE: In 2030, I see Marble Falls as a thriving, family-friendly city that has embraced growth while holding on to its small-town charm. 

I envision a community with strong schools, vibrant local businesses, well-maintained public spaces, and a welcoming spirit. A place where our kids can grow up safely and proudly—and where people of all ages feel at home.

RENE ROSALES SR.

Rosales is a former Marble Falls City Council member, having served from 2020-22. He is a retired certified public accountant with 20 years of experience working for the Texas Workforce Commission in Austin. 

He has lived in Marble Falls with his wife for 10 years, and one of his four adult children also lives in the area.

Rosales is fluent in Spanish and said he hopes to represent and advocate for the Hispanic population of the city. He also said he was motivated to run when he saw there were no contested races on the ballot.

“I have five rules,” he said. “Every single penny that we spend has to be absolutely necessary. Legal: We need to know that whatever the decision is (it’s) legal. Three, what is the return on investment? What are we getting out of it? Four, it is reasonable—which means ‘would you pay for the same service that the city is going to buy for the same price?’ Five, everybody deserves to be heard by the council—all suggestions and recommendations.”

QUESTION 1: What are your views on the rapid development in Marble Falls?

ROSALES: I’m open to progress, provided it respects the essence of our community. Preserving and safeguarding the heart of our downtown is essential to ensure development doesn’t compromise the town’s character.

QUESTION 2: What do you see as the top three primary issues the city is currently facing?

ROSALES: 

1. Parking: Improving accessibility for visitors by developing more convenient parking options is crucial to enhancing their experience and encouraging local tourism.
2. Workforce: Introducing city incentives for hiring local residents can address staffing challenges for businesses. This would not only bring more individuals to work in Marble Falls but also help sustain stable, long-term operations.
3. Traffic: Creating alternative routes for residents is essential to alleviating congestion. This would allow smoother travel for citizens while enabling visitors and through-traffic to move more efficiently.

QUESTION 3: What is your ideal vision for Marble Falls in 2030?

ROSALES: In 2030, Marble Falls thrives as a hub of opportunity, offering industries that support a vibrant local workforce and ensure that citizens no longer need to seek employment in other cities. 

The town provides robust education, accessible healthcare, and affordable housing, creating a welcoming and sustainable environment for its growing population. 

This vision preserves the essence of our community while embracing progress, ensuring a prosperous and cohesive future for all.

dakota@thepicayune.com