Marble Falls City Council candidate profiles

There are two contested races on the ballot for Marble Falls City Council, with contenders vying for Place 1 and Place 3. DailyTrib has assembled profiles on each of the candidates running in those races. 

• Early voting runs April 20-28 and Election Day is May 2

• See a sample ballot for the election at this link

• See a list of polling locations, dates, and times of early voting and Election Day at this link

The Marble Falls City Council is made up of six councilors and a mayor that each serve staggered two-year terms. These volunteer roles come with no pay, and the council meets twice per month. City council members make decisions on local policies, budgets, tax rates, and community issues, voting on ordinances and guiding city development.

Mark Mayfield and Rhonda Brown are running to fill the seat of outgoing Place 1 Councilor Griff Morris, who chose to not run for reelection. 

Incumbent Place 3 Councilor Lauren Haltom is challenged for her seat by former Marble Falls Mayor Dave Rhodes.

Incumbent Place 5 Councilor Richard Westerman is running unopposed for reelection and will automatically keep his seat.

Profiles

Each candidate was emailed the same five questions and given the same word count to assemble the candidate profiles below. The responses are unedited. If a candidate exceeded their word count or did not provide clear responses, their submission was cut short. 

Question 1: Can you provide a brief personal and professional background?

Place 1 candidate Mark Mayfield:

68 years old. Married to Jana for 42 years. Two married children; blessed with 5 grandchildren.  Graduate of Marble Falls High School in 1975. Graduate of Texas State University in 1981.  Retired from Texas Housing Foundation after 37 years. Served in multiple elected and appointed positions over the years.

Place 1 candidate Rhonda Brown:

I am a family‑first, ambitious entrepreneur whose journey has always been rooted in love, hard work, and legacy. I married my high school sweetheart, and together we have raised three children and now enjoy five wonderful grandchildren. My entrepreneurial drive was inspired early by my father, a successful business owner and commercial real estate investor who showed me what determination can build.

Over the years, I have owned several successful small businesses and eventually followed in my father’s footsteps, spending many years buying and selling real estate. Most recently, I retired from a rewarding sales career with Spectrum for Business, where I was honored to earn the President’s Circle award twice.

Family, integrity, and the desire to create meaningful opportunities continue to guide every chapter of my life. 

Place 3 incumbent Lauren Haltom:

I’m a 37-year-old Marble Falls resident, business professional, and proud mom of three boys.. and as of February I am also now a grandmother. I manage a locally owned multifamily community, where I focus on operations, resident satisfaction, and building strong community culture. Prior to this position, I worked for the Burnet county attorneys office. 

My path here wasn’t traditional, I became a mom young and grew up alongside my oldest son, which shaped my work ethic, resilience, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. 

For the past four years, I’ve had the honor of serving on City Council alongside multiple past mayors & city leaders. My initial desire for being on council was to gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of our city, build strong relationships with staff and leadership, and bridge the gap between generations. I represent a generation that values progress but respects…

Place 3 candidate Dave Rhodes:

I, Dave Rhodes, am a dedicated public servant and seasoned business leader with over 40 years of experience in entrepreneurship and industrial business development. Beginning in 1999, I have served the City of Marble Falls as both a council member and mayor, and currently contribute to the community as a member of the Marble Falls Economic Development Board. 

I spent three decades with Tech Development a group within General Electric Aviation division, leading project development and strategic growth initiatives. 

I am committed to civic engagement and economic progress in our community. I have a passion for building a strong community and a sustainable business foundation. With a proven track record in leadership, I have and will continue to development efforts that enhance the quality of life in Marble Falls and beyond.

Question 2: Can you share how long you have lived in Marble Falls or the Highland Lakes area and the extent of your community involvement?

Place 1 candidate Mark Mayfield:

I have lived in Marble Falls almost all of my life. Currently serving on MF Economic Development Corporation Board for the past 18 years; as well as the Texas Tech Highland Lakes Advisory Board. Former member of the MF City Council from 1992-96. Former President of the Marble Falls/Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce, the Capital Area Housing Finance Corporation, the Texas Housing Association, the Highland Lakes Health Fund; and the local Kiwanis Club.  

Also served on MF Parks & Recreation Committee, the boards of PHADA, TAAHP and multiple groups addressing state and local interests.

Place 1 candidate Rhonda Brown:

Four years ago, my family and I made the move to Marble Falls. What began as a practical decision quickly became a heartfelt connection to a community that feels like home. Since settling here, I have become an active broad member of the Property Owners Association and have enjoyed contributing to the place we now proudly call our own.

What I love most about Marble Falls is its true small‑town spirit—genuine, welcoming, and grounded in values that bring people together. This community embodies the heart of small business and local pride, qualities that resonate deeply with me. 

Living here has strengthened my appreciation for neighborhoods where people look out for one another and where local entrepreneurs are encouraged to thrive. Marble Falls is not just where we live; it is where we have planted roots and found a community that inspires us every day.

Place 3 incumbent Lauren Haltom:

I’ve proudly called Marble Falls home since high school and have fully rooted my life and family here in the Highland Lakes community.

My involvement goes far beyond City Council. I actively participate in local events, support our schools and have volunteered with multiple nonprofits through the years. I engage closely with local townsfolk and business owners. Through my role in property management, I’ve also helped create community within my own neighborhood…hosting resident events, supporting local businesses, and fostering connections among neighbors.

As a councilmember, I attend public meetings, community forums, and regional conferences to stay informed and bring valuable insight back to Marble Falls. I’ve built strong working relationships with our city staff and consistently advocate for thoughtful, community-driven decisions.

This town isn’t just where I live, it’s where I’m raising my family, investing my time, and working to help shape a strong future.

Place 3 candidate Dave Rhodes:

My family moved to Marble Falls in 1995. We “burned the boats” so to speak and have made this our home ever since, dedicating our time and efforts with the city and our church. 

When we moved here Marble Falls was comparatively very small and efforts were needed to prepare our city for the growth that would inevitably come. My wife and I are committed to Marble Falls and our daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren are here as well, making these efforts all the more critical. 

Through my business experience and strategic planning skill sets creating and executing long-term vision, I trust has served the city well. I have a proven commitment to pro-active efforts.

Question 3: Can you share what your top three priorities would be if elected as a Marble Falls city councilor? 

Place 1 candidate Mark Mayfield:

1) See the completion and implementation of the new Water Reclamation Plant. This is a huge step for Marble Falls that should serve this community over the next multiple decades. Our current leaders have served us well getting us to this point, but there is a long way to go. The retirement of the current wastewater plant and use of that land will be critical as we preserve our natural landscape. Our parks are a major community asset and need to be preserved and managed well.  

2)  Manage inevitable growth. Balancing growth within our community with good public policy and public services will be critical. It would be my goal to see this accomplished without the threat of unnecessary bureaucratic burden. As our community grows, we need to manage well our Police and Fire Departments accordingly.  

3)  Address traffic concerns. These are only going to get more burdensome and it will be necessary to create alternate internal community traffic flows to alleviate the frustrations we all experience on highway 281. The development of the Nature Heights route to Mormon Mills is an example of good traffic mitigation, however this will need to be extended out toward the Manzano Mile area. Use of Industrial Blvd and 2nd Street needs to be explored as well as a internal loop from Industrial out to highway 281 north of town. 

Place 1 candidate Rhonda Brown:

If elected, I will be committed to strengthening the community we proudly call home. Marble Falls is a place defined by its people, families who have lived here for generations, newcomers planting fresh roots, and small businesses that give our town its character. My priorities reflect the values I hear from residents every day and the future we want to build together.

My first priority, is to support a balanced mix of housing options. As Marble Falls continues to grow, it is essential that we create opportunities for families of all socioeconomic backgrounds, not only high‑end developments. A healthy community includes teachers, first responders, young families, retirees, and long‑time residents who want to remain close to the people and places they love. I intend to advocate for thoughtful planning that keeps Marble Falls accessible and welcoming to all.

My second priority is preserving our parks, lake access, and the unique character that makes this town special. Marble Falls is known for its year‑round, affordable community events that bring people together—from the Bluebonnet Festival and Music on Main to LakeFest Drag Races, Market Days on Main, and the Walkway of Lights to name a few. These traditions reflect the heart of our town, and protecting the natural spaces and public amenities that support them is essential to maintaining our quality of life in Marble Falls.

My third priority is ensuring responsible, transparent city spending. Residents deserve confidence that their tax dollars are being used wisely and in alignment with community priorities. I will work to support financial decisions that are clear, accountable, and focused on long‑term stability.

Together, these priorities reflect a vision for thoughtful growth—one that protects what we cherish while preparing for the future in a way that benefits everyone who calls Marble Falls home.

Place 3 incumbent Lauren Haltom:

My top priorities are thoughtful growth, infrastructure planning, and maintaining the character of our community.

1. Smart, Managed Growth

Marble Falls is growing quickly, and we must be intentional about how we grow. That means supporting development that aligns with our long-term vision while protecting the charm and identity that make this town special. Growth should enhance our quality of life, not strain it.

2. Infrastructure & Long-Term Planning

With growth comes increased demand on roads, utilities, and public services. I prioritize proactive infrastructure planning; working closely with city staff and regional partners to ensure we’re not reacting to growth, but preparing for it. Strategic planning today prevents costly challenges tomorrow.

3. Community-Centered Leadership

I believe decisions should reflect the voices of the people who live here. I will continue to be present, accessible, and engaged; listening to residents, supporting local businesses, and fostering strong partnerships. Maintaining trust between leadership and the community is essential as we navigate change together.

My goal is to help Marble Falls grow in a way that is sustainable, balanced, and true to who we are.

Place 3 candidate Dave Rhodes:

The city’s new Waste Water Plant, currently under construction, is a top priority. It has been a top priority for me for nearly 6 years and will continue to be regardless of my position within the city. I am aware that water is a top priority to most folks concerned about growth and the completion of this plant will go a very long way to securing Marble Falls water supply for decades to come. 

Secondly, our utilities infrastructure is a natural extension, not only of growth but of time. We are challenged with both. In most cases new development pays to extend utilities. The bigger challenge is replacing old, undersized and worn-out streets, water and wastewater pipes in the traditional parts of the city. This effort is far more expensive and challenging than new growth. These issues must be addressed sooner than later. This is a combination of CIP (Capital Improvement Projects) planning, grant funding and good old-fashioned budgeting to get these projects completed. 

Thirdly, but certainly not last, balancing growth, budget, wants and wishes along with needs requires wisdom, knowledge and understanding. There are some “givens” within Marble Falls. We are a tremendous place to live and do business is one of these. From my perspective, growth is not a four-letter word. 

Question 4: What do you believe is the current, greatest challenge facing the city of Marble Falls? How would you address it? 

Place 1 candidate Mark Mayfield:

The biggest issue we have facing our community in my opinion is managing the inevitable growth we face with the available monies we have on hand. Building water/wastewater plants, new fire halls, etc. all cost money. We need to address our need for a functional city hall, however we simply cannot tax the people any more than they already are. This could call for tough decisions being made, but we will need the political will to do so. I will commit my service accordingly.

Place 1 candidate Rhonda Brown:

The greatest challenge facing Marble Falls today is managing rapid population growth while protecting the quality-of-life residents value. Our community is expanding faster than at any point in recent history, and that growth places real pressure on essential infrastructure, especially our water supply, transportation network, and public services. 

As more families move to the area, we must ensure that our roads can handle increased traffic, that our schools have the capacity to support growing enrollment, and that long‑term water planning keeps pace with demand. 

Meeting these needs responsibly will require thoughtful coordination, transparent decision‑making, and a commitment to sustainable development. The goal is not to slow progress, but to guide it in a way that preserves the character of Marble Falls while preparing for a strong and stable future.

Place 3 incumbent Lauren Haltom:

The greatest challenge facing Marble Falls right now is balancing rapid growth with the preservation of our small-town character and quality of life.

We are seeing increased interest from developers, new residents, and regional traffic impacts. Without careful planning, growth can outpace infrastructure and strain city services.

To address this, I support a proactive, strategic approach; ensuring development aligns with our comprehensive plan, investing in infrastructure ahead of demand, and maintaining open communication with residents.

It’s about being intentional. We don’t stop growth; but we guide it in a way that protects what makes Marble Falls feel like home while preparing responsibly for the future.

Place 3 candidate Dave Rhodes:

Rhodes indicated that his response to Question 5 was the same as to Question 4.

Question 5: What is your perception of the growth happening in the city? How do you plan on managing it?

Place 1 candidate Mark Mayfield:

Growth is inevitable.  Marble Falls is a tremendous place to live, uniquely set in the most beautiful part of Texas that there is. We are on the threshold of retail growth we have never experienced before. Living here most all my life gives me some reservation to all this growth, however we won’t stop it, but we can certainly manage it well. I would appreciate the support.

Place 1 candidate Rhonda Brown:

Marble Falls can successfully manage its growth by planning ahead and investing wisely in the services residents rely on every day. As the community expands, it becomes even more important to strengthen essential infrastructure such as water supply, roads, and utilities so they can support long‑term demand.

Thoughtful planning also means guiding new development toward smart, mixed‑use areas that encourage walkability, support local businesses, and reduce strain on existing neighborhoods. At the same time, protecting natural resources and maintaining affordability must remain central to every decision. When growth is balanced with sustainability, it becomes an opportunity—one that enhances quality of life, supports local families, and preserves the character that makes Marble Falls such a special place to live.

Place 3 incumbent Lauren Haltom:

Growth in Marble Falls is both an opportunity and a responsibility. It reflects the strength and appeal of our community; but it must be managed carefully.

My perception is that we are at a pivotal point. The decisions we make now will shape the city for generations. Growth should be guided, not rushed.

I plan to manage it by supporting developments that align with our vision, prioritizing infrastructure readiness, and maintaining high standards for quality and design. I also believe in staying connected to the community; listening to concerns, gathering input, and ensuring transparency in decision-making.

If managed well, growth can enhance Marble Falls without compromising the charm and values that make people want to be here in the first place.

Place 3 candidate Dave Rhodes:

Growth provides opportunities for our children to stay or return to Marble Falls as young adults and find work, raise families and thrive. Growth provides needed funding to maintain existing infrastructure and plan for new. Growth provides a sense of accomplishment in a community well suited for living. Growth is proof of a future for us, our children and our children’s children and beyond. I am confident that while I certainly do not have all the answers, I will bring an abundance of wisdom, knowledge, understanding and experience to the serving Marble Falls once again. 

dakota@thepicayune.com