The Deer Park City Council has unanimously appointed Tom Gaines to fill a vacant seat, bypassing two active candidates campaigning for the position in the November election. Gaines expects to be sworn in just before a special meeting next week, which has been called to address potential litigation against the city.
The council seat that Hall held was created when population growth triggered a state law requiring the city’s council to expand from five to seven members. Following a motion by Councilmember Fred Senn, the Deer Park City Council unanimously appointed Tom Gaines on Wednesday to fill the position left vacant since the passing of Councilmember Ross Hall in June.
There were five individuals who applied to fill the position for the next four months.
- Tom Gaines (Appointed)
- Nick Richardson
- Laura Chamberlain
- Tony Baily (Candidate Upcoming Election)
- David Aufdencamp (Candidate Upcoming Election)
The council chose not to select either of the two candidates currently campaigning for Hall’s former seat on the council. Councilmember Jason Upchurch explained that the decision was made to avoid any appearance of an endorsement.
Gaines stated that he expects to be sworn in just before a special meeting called to address potential litigation against the city. The purpose of the meeting is to enter mediation in hopes of avoiding a lawsuit, though the mayor did not specify the nature of the potential litigation. While the meeting is open to the public, portions may be held in a private executive session. The special meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 27th, at 7 pm at Deer Park City Hall.
Sources:
- Jason Upchurch Deer Park City Councilmember Facebook Post. https://www.facebook.com/voteforjasonupchurch/posts/pfbid0GfGBn1DxsWpS1tS8HKgoYQqPkXqniig7n54H55yEnsK2ZxQ6YrUXtHoin8ZS19qWl. Accessed August 20, 2025.
