Every so often, County Progress asks our distinguished Judges and Commissioners to allow us a glimpse into their public lives, giving us a fresh appreciation for the myriad of roles and responsibilities they shoulder every day. Our thanks to Karnes County Commissioner Sharon Chesser for taking the time to visit with us.
HISTORY: I am the first female elected Commissioner in Karnes County. This was not my goal, to be the first. I am humbled and greatly honored by all who have put their trust in me. I am Karnes County, Texas, born and raised. Yes, I am blessed.
My parents are of different cultures; my mother, Irma Cortez Chesser, is Hispanic, and my father, Albert Chesser Sr., is non-Hispanic. What a great blend. I am so very proud to be one of their four children.
My journey in local government for over 11 years was started with the city of Kenedy. That’s Kenedy with one “n.” It was during that time I met my life partner, Jose Hernandez Jr., who is very kind, supportive, and all heart. I have been more than blessed, becoming a step-Glam-Ma (glamorous grandmother – and, no, they do not call me that; however, it works for me!). We have three handsome grandsons and two beautiful granddaughters ages 7 to 21. Jose’s two sons and their wives have brought us great joy and a lot of ball games! Having family is the joy of our lives.
My county adventure started in the tax office with the tax assessor-collector, Mrs. Ann Frankie. Mrs. Frankie is one of the most dedicated, hard-working, dependable, caring individuals, and her people skills are faultless. She truly was a great asset to Karnes County and an excellent mentor. From that office, I was asked by the County Special Projects/911 Addressing coordinator, who was getting ready to retire, if I wanted to apply for his position. Mr. Cesar Ponce was very meticulous and a master of his craft. For six years I became enlightened in permitting, mapping, addressing, budgeting, grant writing, the incident command system, and so much more.
County Judge Alger Kendall Jr. and his secretary, Ms. Sylvia Cisneros, helped guide me along the way. Their dedication and kindness are unmatched. Inspiration comes from everywhere, from all who are around you, going out of their way, offering acts of kindness, and showing passion as they share their knowledge. Beginning with my parents, so many were placed along my path to send me in the direction that I am going.
After a great deal of thought, praying to the Good Lord, and discussion with my family, I reached out to the constituents for their support and received the number of voters’ signatures I needed to be placed on the ballot. The support was overwhelming.
My goal was to be part of building a better future for our community using the training and knowledge that I obtained while working in local government, and to be a voice for Karnes County as Commissioner. I lost two times. Losing in any thing is not easy; I know from my own experiences.
I continued to work for the county, and I became the sheriff’s administrative assistant. For a little more than six years, I continued to acquire new job skills. I still felt that my continued training was leading me to run for Commissioner. If at first you do not succeed, try, try again. I ran again for the office of County Commissioner Precinct #4, with all the support of family, friends, and constituents, and was sworn in on Jan. 1, 2019. I am so very honored and proud to be a Commissioner for Karnes County.
IS IT WHAT YOU EXPECTED? Yes and no. I have only been in office for two years now. What I expected doesn’t come from the job. However, I expect to do the best job I can to work together for the good of Karnes County using the knowledge and education I have been bestowed in the 25 years in local government. I want to strive to be that inspiration. I cannot expect things to be easy, and I sure do not expect it to be difficult. Just as in other jobs in the county, I expected it to be a challenge, and it is.
TYPICAL DAY: What exactly is a typical day? The year 2020 has been anything but typical. Covid-19 has changed us all. This will be a challenge. We will all get through. For now, this is our new normal.
Karnes County Commissioners do not have employees, as we are under the Unit Road System. A typical day may include meetings, web classes or Zoom meetings, and checking and returning emails – a lot of email. Let us not forget snail mail. I can be reached most any time by phone or text. If it is a complaint, I will listen. Complaints may be about the roads, drainage, trees, trash being dumped, issues with onsite sewer facilities, dogs barking, and wrecker services, just to name a few. All are just part of the job. Some call on a job well done by the county. I try to handle all complaints as soon as possible and pass along the “job well done” to the appropriate office. At present, the in-person visits have slowed some. There is time well-spent volunteering when I can, helping with everything from the food bank to cancer walks and coat drives, along with Easter egg hunts and trick or treat activities. Things are always changing, and we must bend, not break.
BIGGEST CHALLENGE: Whether it be a constituent, employee, department head, or elected official, sometimes the biggest challenge is to agree to disagree. All people have opinions, which can be expressed in a debate or spirited discussion. It does not necessarily mean one person is right and the other person is wrong. Keep an open mind, and always remember to respect the other person’s opinion.
FAVORITE PART OF BEING A COUNTY COMMISSIONER: Having the opportunity to serve is my favorite part! For example, we traveled to Austin in April 2019 to lobby for a Senate and House bill which could assist in funding improvement to county roads in disrepair due to the heavy usage of the oil and gas industry trucks.
I realize every one of us brings something to the table that will benefit the whole. We each have our strong suits. We are 254-Texas and Karnes County Proud.
As Zig Ziglar said, “If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.” What a fitting quote.