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Meet the Candidates: Interview with Jennifer Stout

A Texan's Island Journey and Commitment to Community

by Sarah-Victoria Lozano de Gonzalez

Born and raised as a third-generation Texan in Dallas, Jennifer Stout proudly embraces her indigenous heritage. A mother to her twin boys Thomas and Steven, wife to her husband Randy, and former senior paralegal, Stout's journey to South Padre Island (SPI) is marked by a deep connection to family, love for animals, and a dedication to community service.

 

The decision to make SPI their retirement haven was rooted in years of family vacations and a growing affinity for the island's charm. Initially purchasing a townhome on Mars Street in 2017, the Stouts later moved full-time in 2022 after witnessing the island's appeal during various seasons.

 

Stout like many, was a frequent visitor to the island and says she started vacationing after visiting her husband Randy’s sister Laura Fincher.

 

“But we had been bringing the boys down since they were about eight years old every year. So, we had the view of a tourist, and now we have the view of a resident,” remarked Stout.

Before calling SPI home, Stout dedicated much of her professional life to law, from the age of 19 and ultimately retired as a Senior Paralegal. Her legal background shapes her commitment to transparency and informed decision-making.

Embracing her role as an island resident, Stout has been dedicated to community service, notably at the SPI animal shelter, Friends of Animal Rescue. Her passion for animals is evident not only through her volunteer work but also by adopting turtles, Cowgirl and Merry Christmas, from Sea Turtle Inc. Additionally, she proudly owns two Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Ceba and Piper.

Looking ahead to potential public service roles, Stout expresses interest in the Shoreline Task Force, drawing inspiration from her experiences as the President of the Paralegal Association in Denton County. Her keen interest lies in the island's shoreline, especially post-dune restoration.

 

“I'm really very interested in the shoreline and especially since we did all of the dune restoration, and I watched that all happen,” says Stout.

 

Stout's primary focus in her candidacy revolves around the island's residents. She advocates for a balanced approach to tourism and business, with a strong emphasis on residents' well-being. Addressing concerns such as venue tax projects, infrastructure development, and resident transportation, Stout aims to prioritize the needs of those who call SPI home.

 

She highlights the importance of networking among businesses, addressing issues like crosswalk safety, and enhancing law enforcement presence. Stout proposes solutions, such as implementing hard red lights for crosswalks, to ensure safety for residents and visitors alike.

 

Believing in transparency, Stout insists on keeping the public informed about decisions that impact the community. Drawing on her legal background, she acknowledges the need for discretion but underscores the importance of openness once decisions are finalized.

 

Jennifer Stout is running a self-funded campaign, driven by a desire to remain independent and beholden to the community rather than outside interests. Filing at the eleventh hour on December 27, Stout views this as an interim position, with plans for a full-fledged campaign in the upcoming November elections.

 

Connect with Jennifer Stout directly at Jlstout11@verizon.net.

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Sarah-Victoria Lozano de Gonzalez, a Brownsville native, holds degrees in Political Science and English from Baylor University.

 

She currently serves as a reporter for Island Matters, a digital newspaper covering news on South Padre Island, bringing with her legal expertise gained from various law firms, courthouses, and probation offices.

 

In her free time, she passionately advocates for children in CASA.

 
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