By Bailey County Judge Sherry Harrison, Newly Elected Director, West Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association
First of all, I want to thank my Commissioners Court for their support and for allowing me to serve as a director for the West Texas Association. I also want to thank the West Texas Association Nominating Committee for their confidence and this great opportunity.
In January 2014, I began serving my 16th year in Bailey County. I ran for county clerk, was elected in 1998, and began my term in January 1999. I served as county clerk for a little over six years, was appointed County Judge, and began serving in that capacity on March 1, 2005.
I have two children: Shelbi, 19, and Conner, 16.
Bailey County has a population of 7,165 and contains 827.5 square miles. Muleshoe, the only incorporated city in Bailey County, was once a part of the famed XIT Ranch. In the early 1900s, the Muleshoe Ranch was established, grew to more than 150,000 acres, and reached into four counties. Cattle, farming, and dairies are three of the biggest industries in the area.
The most popular photo site is the National Mule Memorial, know to the locals as “Ole Pete.” This fiberglass Mule has made it all the way to Washington, D.C., ridden in the Presidential Inaugural Parade in 2001, and presided over the Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball. Donations for the monument were received from throughout the nation, and the memorial was unveiled on July 4, 1965.
I would like to see new businesses and properties added to our tax roll. I also think Wind Energy Development is on the horizon for Bailey County. I think we need to concentrate on diversifying our tax base. We are fortunate to have a wonderful school system, and we have a VERY active 4-H and FFA Club.
I strive for excellence and always try to better myself. If we will concentrate on trying to do a better job than we did the day before, then we will be successful. One of my favorite sayings by Jimmy Johnson is, “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little ‘extra.’ ” Always be willing to give that little extra! Mistakes will be made in the process…but if we will learn from those mistakes and not make them again, a positive outcome will prevail. I promise to give that little extra to the West Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association.