FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 9/4/24
For More Information Contact: Virgie Martin virgiemartinodsa@gmail.com 432-349-3564


Three passionate community members have officially announced their candidacies for the Ector County Utility District (ECUD) Board of Directors. Jesus Sanchez for Seat 1, Darrell Pando for Seat 3, and John Kelley for Seat 4, are each committed to bringing fresh perspectives, integrity, and common sense to the board, with a shared vision of improving water access and cost of service for all residents of West Odessa. Although the board seats are a voluntary unpaid positions, they believe the only way to solve West Odessa’s water issues is to get involved.

The candidates will hold a Press Conference Thursday, September 5, at 10:30 am. The location will be at the ECUD Knox Water Tower near 1400 S Knox St, Odessa, TX. 79763. The candidates will be available for Q&A following their statements. NOTE: In case of inclement weather or standing water the Press Conference will be held at El Dorado Café, 10663 W University, Odessa, TX 79763.

Jesus Sanchez, a local business owner has been a member of the community for 18 years. He is dedicated to ensuring that ECUD runs efficiently and spends the taxpayer and customer money they receive wisely. He aims to lower water prices and ensure responsible board oversight while expanding ECUD services to new customers in West Odessa. “Our community needs lower water prices, and we need to make sure the future includes responsible board oversight at ECUD,” said Jesus Sanchez.

Darrel Pando brings a new face in local politics, being a West Odessan for 7 years with friends and family in the community, Darrell hears from family and the community how they go about getting their water. He thinks it’s wrong that there are homes that cannot just turn on the faucet to get clean running ECUD water. Darrell is committed to addressing the long-standing water issues that plague West Odessa. “There are more homes in West Odessa that do not have access to ECUD water than those that do. These are real struggles that you hear about in 3rd world countries, not a city in America,” said Darrell Pando.

John Kelley, an active community organizer for a change in the ECUD Board, is running to amplify the voices of West Odessa residents who have long been underserved. “I’m committed to representing the interests of our entire community on the ECUD Board. It’s time for a change, and I’m ready to fight for fair and equal representation,” said John Kelley.

The three candidates are united by a shared mission: to improve the quality of life in West Odessa through better water infrastructure, greater transparency, and equitable representation on the ECUD Board. They believe that by working together, they can achieve meaningful change for the community.

With three other candidates, including Stephanie Shaw the current Board President, also vying for the same seats, the stakes are high for the upcoming election. Voters are faced with a crucial choice: to elect candidates who bring a fresh perspectives, a commitment to transparency, and a passion for doing the best thing for the community, or to continue with the status quo. ECUD has faced public scrutiny of controlling the board membership through appointments of friends and family members. This is the first time any of these 3 seats have been on the ballot.

The election for the ECUD Board is a pivotal moment for West Odessa. It is an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and choose representatives who will prioritize their needs.

The election will take place on November 5th, with early voting beginning October 21st. The candidates encourage all voters to ensure they are properly listed on the voter roster and participate and make their voices heard in this important election.

For more information about the candidates and their platforms, please visit one of the candidates’ websites or contact Virgie Martin (contact information above).
SanchezForSeat1.com PandoForSeat3.com JohnForSeat4.com

About ECUD
The Ector County Utility District (ECUD) is responsible for providing water to the residents of West Odessa. The Board of Directors oversees the management and operation of these services, ensuring that the needs of the community are met.