Congressman to open Seguin office

On Tuesday morning, the office of Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced plans to open a district office in Seguin. Gonzalez indicated in a news release that the office will be designed to serve residents in the northern counties of the district.

According to the news release, the office would serve "the residents of Guadalupe, Karnes, Live Oak, and Wilson counties."

Gonzalez spoke on his enthusiasm for the new office, saying that he welcomes the opportunity to serve Guadalupe County residents.

"This will put our entire district in closer communication with the community," the congressman said. "There are always concerns that are unique to each area, and this helps to make certain that all of those concerns are listened to. I want to ensure that everybody in my district has their fair share of the resources that are available, and having direct access in Guadalupe County will assist in that."

Gonzalez, whose father was a Korean War veteran, has been inspired to focus on helping service members (both past and present) and their families to have better access to their benefits.

"Veterans' issues are important because these residents and their families often need help navigating their benefits," Gonzalez said. "Being able to go in person and speak to somebody from their local area will make a difference to those seeking help."

The congressman said that the impact will be felt on a county, district, and national level.

"This will give residents of Seguin and Guadalupe County a stronger voice in Washington," Gonzalez said. "It provides direct contact from my constituents to me, and I get to correspond directly with Washington to help South Texans fight for what the communities and individuals need to succeed."

Gonzalez hopes to use an existing building within Guadalupe County and plans to have the office established in the next six months.

"We are looking to repurpose something that is already there, so we can focus on getting started instead of worrying about construction," Gonzalez said. "We also want it to be in a location that residents are familiar with. Seguin, being the county seat, is where we are looking."

The news release also announced that Gonzalez plans to hire a Field Representative to open the new office.

"Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: answering casework correspondences; meeting with constituents; and liaising with federal, state, and local agencies and officials," the release said. "The Field Representative will also be responsible for informing Congressman Gonzalez, the Chief of Staff, and the Northern District Director of pertinent issues occurring in Guadalupe, Barnes, Live Oak, and Wilson Counties."

It's not a job for everybody, but Gonzalez has a few ideas about what type of person will fit the bill.

"The ideal candidate is going to be outgoing, a real people-person," the congressman said. "They will need to understand the issues that pertain to local residents, and have a high energy level for the job. They're going to have to be passionate about the position and be able to travel to the neighboring counties to make sure they represent our South Texas communities. Experience certainly helps, but as long as this person is adaptable it's not mandatory."

Gonzalez said that this office hopes to make a selection within the next few months and encourages anyone that may be qualified to apply.

"I'm willing to consider all candidates. This region is full of Texans that want to make a difference, and this is their opportunity," he said. "One year ago, I took an oath to serve all people in the 15th District of Texas and assembled a team just as committed to accessibility and service. Adding this Field Representative will make life easier for those living in our northern counties and give us the opportunity to get to know more incredible South Texans."

To apply for the field representative opening, submit a resume and cover letter to TX15jobs@gmail.com.