State Rep. Chris Paddie conducted a town hall meeting at the Shelby County Courthouse Tuesday afternoon as the second term Republican prepares for the opening of the 84^th Session of the Texas Legislature next Tuesday.

 

Paddie said he wanted to make some last minute visits around House District 9 to get some feedback so that his priorities in Austin are in line with his constituents.

 

“I'm being sent as the voice of the citizens and I want to be on the same page."

 

He said he wanted everyone is the house district to know he wants to hear from you on issues big or small and how you feel about it. 

 

"It makes me better when citizens are in touch," Paddie added.

 

He said if there’s an issue you’re concerned about he wants to get that email, he wants his office to get that call—good or bad, whether you’re for or against an issue.

 

He said he really enjoyed getting around and visiting with people.

 

Rep. Paddie said with a number of “new” faces from the governor and lt. governor to their staffs to those newcomers in the legislature, it will be an interesting session.

 

He felt some of the issues facing the legislative session will be transportation, water rights, educational funding, streamlining governmental agencies and private property rights. In addition to passing a biennial Budget, which Paddie feels will take longer than the 140-day regular session.

 

He some other “hot button” legislative items will be some form of open carry for firearms, immigration and border security.

 

Center Broadcasting will be airing and publishing a weekly legislative update from Rep. Paddie once the 84^th Legislature convenes.