I'm Kelli Tudyk. Llano, Texas, has been my home for most of my life—it’s where I graduated in 1986, raised my three wonderful children, and built my life around family and community. I’ve had the privilege of owning and operating three local businesses, and throughout it all, I’ve always sought ways to give back to the community that shaped me. Llano isn’t just where I live—it’s where my heart is, and I’m deeply committed to helping it thrive. I’ve been involved in the real estate industry since 1996 and have been a licensed agent since 1999, helping families find their perfect place to call Llano their home too.

1. What qualifications, skills, or experience do you bring that would make you an effective member of the Llano City Council?

I have extensive experience in local government, beginning with service on the Planning and Zoning Board. I was first elected as an alderwoman in 2012 and have been re-elected twice. In 2022, I was appointed Mayor to complete an unexpired term. Throughout my tenure, I have served on numerous council committees to hire positions for City Manager, Chief of Police, City Secretary, and once for City Judge.

2. What motivated you to run for Llano City Council?

I have a deep love for Llano and a heartfelt connection to the community that raised me. My passion is giving back to this place that has given me so much, supporting growth while honoring the small-town charm that makes Llano unique. I am dedicated to fostering opportunities, strengthening our local economy, and helping our community thrive—ensuring it remains a vibrant, welcoming home for generations to come.

3. What do you see as the most pressing issues facing the City of Llano today?

The most pressing issues facing Llano are water, growth, and infrastructure. Ongoing drought conditions are straining water supply and increasing the need for conservation and long-term planning. Aging water and utility infrastructure, along with rising costs, are putting pressure on city budgets and residents. Additionally, population growth and development are creating challenges related to housing, utility services, and maintaining small-town character. Other concerns include disaster preparedness, particularly around the development of a new/alternative River crossing and flooding.

4. Water is one of Llano residents' biggest concerns. What, in your belief, is the best path for Llano regarding our water future?

Llano faces ongoing water challenges due to aging pipes and vulnerability to breaks, which have led to boil-water advisories. Immediate priorities include repairing water mains and keeping residents informed. In the mid-term, the city should modernize infrastructure, implement real-time monitoring, and collaborate with regional partners for water planning. Long-term strategies should focus on diversifying water sources, reducing leaks, expanding water treatment capacity, and promoting conservation. I strongly believe the city should protect its senior water rights and not sell or give them away.

5. How would you approach the budget process to fund the city’s needs without placing additional burden on taxpayers?

I would approach the budget by prioritizing critical services such as water, public safety, and roads, while identifying efficiencies and eliminating waste. Every line of the budget should be carefully reviewed and scrutinized to ensure funds are spent wisely. We must seek out vendors that have competitive pricing to ensure we are not overpaying for everyday supplies and equipment. At the same time, the city should continue to actively pursue state and federal grants, public-private partnerships, and other alternative funding sources to support essential projects without burdening taxpayers. By leveraging modern technology and careful planning, we can make every dollar go further. Transparency is crucial, residents should clearly understand how funds are allocated and spent. Developing and overseeing the budget is one of the most important responsibilities of the city council, and I would approach it with diligence, accountability, and a focus on results.

6. How can the City Council work with staff and existing resources to move the JLK Event Center, Llano River Golf Course, City Pool, and Lantex Theater toward self-sufficiency?

Our city-owned facilities are important community assets. I will continue to collaborate closely with city staff to review operations, identify cost-saving opportunities, and explore ways to increase revenue. This could include better marketing, attracting more events and visitors, forming partnerships or sponsorships, and using volunteers where possible. By sharing resources among facilities and adjusting strategies as needed, we can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and keep these facilities thriving for everyone in Llano. Currently we have laser-focused employees at these facilities who are trying their best to make these assets more self-sufficient.

7. How would you approach economic development and business retention while preserving Llano’s small-town character?

I want Llano to grow economically while keeping our small-town charm. That means attracting and supporting local businesses and tourism-based services. Every development decision should include community input to ensure it reflects our values. I support promoting smart, sustainable growth, so we can create jobs, strengthen our local economy, and preserve the character that makes Llano special.

8. What are your top priorities for Llano's aging infrastructure?

My top priorities for Llano’s aging infrastructure are ensuring safe water, reliable roads, and efficient public facilities. I would focus first on repairing and replacing aging water pipes to prevent breaks and contamination and expanding our water treatment facility.

9. How do you plan to engage with residents and ensure their voices are heard in council decisions? Will you take direct questions from citizens?

City residents are the heart of Llano, and their voices should guide every council decision. I will ALWAYS take direct questions from citizens—in meetings, by email, or in person—because listening and being accessible builds trust. Our community has so many residents with deep knowledge and long histories in Llano, and the council should always be willing to listen, learn, and act on their insights. It’s our responsibility to engage, gather ideas, and have the drive to implement solutions that reflect the community’s priorities.

10. If elected, what specific goals would you aim to accomplish during your term?

If re-elected, my goals for Llano would stay focused on infrastructure, water reliability, economic growth, housing and community engagement. I would prioritize repairing and modernizing our water system and roads, including the development of a second water crossing, which is vital from a safety aspect. I will work to support local businesses, attract sustainable economic development, while trying to preserve our small-town character.