The Lubbock County 2026 March primaries are just around the corner.
Learn more about Justin Martin’s platforms in the Republican Primary for Lubbock County Commissioner for Precinct 2.
Note: The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal only edited the response to comply with journalistic standards and did not change any responses.
Q: Why are you running for County Commissioner for Precinct 2, and what specific experience or qualifications make you the right person for this position?
A: I see a clear need for a united Commissioners Court with strong, effective leadership. Our community deserves to have its tax dollars allocated responsibly—not wasted on personal vendettas. I will strive to serve as a County Commissioner who is a strong voice for my constituents and for West Texas values.
I make myself accessible by giving out my phone number and committing to always being a listening ear. Together, we can make our community safer, stronger, and more prosperous. I will advocate for efficient government and fiscally conservative principles.
My qualifications for this role include proven leadership and a strong work ethic. I have served as a School Board member for 12 years, managed and overseen up to 80 subcontractors for more than 20 years, and served as the Lubbock County Republican Party Precinct 38 chair for six years.
I have also built a successful business from the ground up at JM Martin Custom Homes, demonstrating my commitment to hard work, accountability, and results. I know a wide range of people throughout our community and will use my experience and networking skills to help bring stability, cooperation, and effectiveness to the Lubbock County Commissioners’ Court.
Q: What do you see as the most pressing needs in Precinct 2 specifically — whether that’s roads, infrastructure, services, or other concerns—and how would you address them?
A: First and foremost, we must create a budget that balances critical community needs such as public safety and infrastructure. I want to get into the nitty-gritty of cutting wasteful spending so that our volunteer fire departments and the Sheriff’s Office are properly funded and resources are allocated to the areas of greatest need.
In Precinct 2 alone, there is a significant need for road construction at Horseshoe Bend due to improper engineering and short-term fixes. Roads must be built correctly the first time to save taxpayers’ money in the long run. Without a clear vision and proper oversight, this will not happen.
Lubbock County also needs a comprehensive plan to guide future growth. By partnering with city leaders, developers, and community stakeholders, we can create a structured and efficient plan that supports sustainable growth across the county.
Q: County Commissioners vote on the county budget and major spending decisions that affect all of Lubbock County. What would guide your votes on county-wide issues, and what are your priorities for how county tax dollars should be spent?
A: My priority for my constituents’ tax dollars is to keep more money in the pockets of taxpayers. That requires listening carefully to the true needs of our community and dedicating the time necessary to thoughtful, responsible budget planning. We need a common-sense approach that prioritizes public safety first and foremost.
As a Commissioners Court, we must work together as a team for the greater good of Lubbock County. We should be advocates for our constituents — focused on solutions, not personal drama.
Q: The Lubbock County Expo Center remains a contentious issue, with bond money committed but private fundraising stalled and financial transparency lacking. How would you vote on moving forward with this project, and what accountability measures would you require?
A: I would honor the vote of the taxpayers and move forward with the project. My primary goal throughout this process would be transparency. Taxpayers should never be left in the dark about how their money has been spent or how it will be allocated moving forward.
This project needs to begin as soon as possible. Any necessary adjustments to ensure it is completed with the funds currently available must be made promptly. Taxpayers deserve to see measurable progress on this important asset for our community.
Q: Lubbock County’s property tax rate has been a concern for many residents. What is your philosophy on the county’s tax rate and spending, and what would you do to keep the tax burden manageable while maintaining necessary services?
A: My fiscally conservative values drive my commitment to keeping the tax rate at a level that meets essential county needs—because you can spend your money more wisely than the government. We must strive to be efficient, innovative, and future-focused, making decisions that are right not only for today, but for generations to come.
To responsibly manage the property tax rate, we must adequately fund public safety, infrastructure, and mandated services. However, over the past five years, appraisal creep has impacted every property owner in the county, driving property values up by as much as 25 to 50 percent in some cases. This increase has placed a significant and often crippling strain on taxpayers’ personal budgets.
Q: How do you differ from the other candidates in this race in terms of your priorities, approach, or qualifications? What makes you the best choice for Precinct 2 voters?
A: My opponents and I are all men who have entered this race to serve our community, and that principle is at the heart of my campaign. What I believe truly sets me apart is the level of accessibility I will provide to taxpayers. I will be available to take your call and will genuinely listen to your concerns. I am committed to addressing the needs of all my constituents—not just a select few.
The budget is the most critical responsibility of county government. Without the necessary funding, nothing can be accomplished. Budget decisions determine priorities and ultimately shape the effectiveness and direction of our county government.
My approach is simple: be available and be accountable. Everyone has my cell phone number — 806-778-9932 — and I am ready to answer the call. I believe this level of openness and accessibility is essential to serving our community effectively. Our constitutional republic was founded on the principle of transparent, citizen-led government.
Mateo Rosiles is a reporter for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal and USA TODAY Network in Texas. Got a news tip for him? Email him: mrosiles@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Read Lubbock Commissioner P2 GOP primary candidate Justin Martin’s platforms
Reporting by Mateo Rosiles, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
