2026 Primary Election: Hemphill County Treasurer Q&A
EDITOR'S NOTE: The Canadian Record submitted questions to four local candidates who are in contested races in the March 3, 2026 Primary Election. All but one of the candidates--Hemphill County Judge hopeful Beth Ramp Sturgeon--responded to our Q&A by the Friday, February 13, 3 pm deadline. We hope the information provided here is helpful to Hemphill County voters in deciding how to cast their ballots. -- LAURIE EZZELL BROWN
HEMPHILL COUNTY TREASURER
KAY SMALLWOOD
I am a committed member of the Hemphill County community who understands the importance of trust, accountability and service in local government. I value hard work, accuracy and treating every person with respect. I believe county offices function best when they are run with transparency, consistency, and a strong sense of responsibility.
COURTNEY KENDALL
I currently work as Administrative Assistant in the Judge’s Office and have for nine years. Before beginning my career with the County, I managed our family construction company, including obtaining bids from sub-contractors as well as overseeing the weekly expenses. As assistant to the County Judge, I have managed numerous grants, help prepare and execute a list of items approved in the Commissioners Court, and serve the Judge daily with the many multi-tasks we have within the County. I began working in the Treasurer’s Office during the trying years of Covid. I was able to quickly learn areas such as payroll and accounts payable software. I have learned a great deal of the in-and-outs of County business over the last nine years. I’ve built rapport with my County employees and constituents and take a tremendous amount of ownership in my job. I’m ready to carry that same attitude to the Treasurer’s Office.
- If successful in winning election, what is the single-most important quality you will bring to the office of Hemphill County Treasurer?
KS If successful in winning the election for Hemphill County Treasurer I think the most important quality I will bring to the office is integrity. The Treasurer is the county’s chief steward of public funds, and that responsibility demands absolute honesty, transparency and accountability. I will ensure every dollar is handled carefully, reported accurately and managed in full compliance with the law. By pairing integrity with attention to detail and open communication, I will work to protect taxpayer resources, maintain public trust and serve Hemphill County with professionalism and respect every day.
CK I’ve learned from working in the Judge’s office that engaging with employees and constituents to solve problems and answer questions is key. I’m approachable and energetic in the work place. I pride myself on being in the middle of ‘grand central station’ and if I don’t have an immediate answer, I’ll get it. That’s a trait that goes with me to the Treasurer’s Office.
- What skills do you possess that will make you a good fit for the Hemphill County Treasurer’s office?
KS I possess a strong combination of financial responsibility, organization, and attention to detail, which are essential to the role of Hemphill County Treasurer. I am experienced in handling records accurately, meeting deadlines, and following established procedures to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. I am dependable, methodical, and committed to transparency in all financial matters. In addition, I communicate clearly and respectfully with the public, fellow county officials, and auditors, helping ensure smooth daily operations. My willingness to learn adapt and work diligently on behalf of taxpayers makes me well suited to serve effectively in the Treasurer’s office.
CK I’ve been working part-time in the Treasurer’s Office for almost 6 years. I’ve learned the software and will continue to educate myself with the fast pace world of technology to maintain the budget, pay bills and do pay-roll. I work closely with elected officials, Commissioners, and other employees in my job now, so that will carry over to the HR duties required in the Treasurer’s Office.
- Tell us something about yourself that you think will help voters make a well-informed decision in this election.
KS If re-elected Treasurer, I will bring a steady, detail-oriented approach to managing public funds and willingness to work cooperatively with county officials and the public. Voters can be confident that I will approach this office with integrity, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to serve Hemphill County responsibly and professionally.
CK I’ve been working in the Judge’s Office for nine years and helping part time in the Treasurer’s office for six. I came here after managing both in General Contractor and Accounting roles in our family construction company and raising four kids. I get things done timely and efficiently. I have at least 15 years of “work years” left before I consider retirement. I’m ready for the next level of responsibility in my career.
