Marshall Councilwoman Reba Godfrey Runs for Re-Election After Opponent’s Disqualification
Marshall, TX — District 5 Councilwoman Reba Godfrey is seeking another term to continue what she calls her “ministry” of hands-on service to Marshall, determined to push the city forward despite a shaken political landscape. Godfrey’s opponent, Candance Pierce, has been officially disqualified from holding office due to a Class B misdemeanor conviction, city officials confirmed, meaning even a Pierce win would result in a vacant seat and likely a special appointment or election.
Godfrey, who has represented District 5 since 2022, emphasized that her work is not political posturing but a calling. “It’s not politics. It’s position — being in place, doing what God called me to do,” she said. “A boots-on-the-ground ministry, not from behind a desk.”
Strong Track Record on City Improvements Drives Godfrey’s Campaign
The longtime Marshall resident of 72 years and retired educator has been credited with concrete improvements in the city. Soon after taking office, she championed the installation of LED streetlights in District 5, a project that sparked wider adoption citywide. She also advocated to shift control over street repair priorities back to council members after decades of neglect in northwest and southwest areas, leading to significant road repairs finally occurring.
Godfrey’s commitment to improving city services shines most through her efforts to secure pay raises for municipal employees. Despite a 4% across-the-board raise budgeted for 2026, Godfrey pushed for at least 5% increases to counter inflation and higher property taxes, while also promoting certification training pay increases for staff.
“Seeing God just open the purse strings and seeing Him provide services for everybody in the city — from the top to the bottom — He’s been the provider,” Godfrey said, describing her advocacy as spiritual as well as civic.
Water Infrastructure and Illegal Dumping Among Top Priorities
Among her most urgent concerns is the city’s aging water system. After a major water main break on Spring Street left parts of Marshall without water for days, Godfrey revealed she foresaw the critical vulnerabilities earlier during tours and inspections of the wastewater treatment plant and raw water treatment plant alongside Public Works officials.
“Some parts of that system were done in 1948… I knew that something needed to be done,” Godfrey said. She has since pushed for funding, including nearly $22 million requested from the Texas Water Development Board, to upgrade critical water infrastructure.
Godfrey is also leading fights to clean up illegal dumping hotspots at Ward, Norwood, Olive, and Scotts Quarters streets, securing reinstatement of the city’s right-of-way crews and persistent cleanup efforts that she says dramatically improved the neighborhoods.
Community Unity and Future Outlook
Godfrey credits a newfound spirit of unity at City Hall for advances made on multiple fronts. “Most of all, what I really love is how God has unified us, how He has changed the spiritual atmosphere of the city,” she said. “At City Hall, we hug. There is love, there is unity, and God has just done an amazing thing.”
As election day approaches, Godfrey continues to urge voters in District 5 to back her bid to maintain continuity and ensure ongoing progress. She warns that a victory by her disqualified opponent would leave the council seat vacant, potentially disrupting momentum on vital city projects and staff support.
For residents concerned about city services, infrastructure, and leadership following years of deferred maintenance and challenges, Godfrey’s campaign presents a promise of steady stewardship deeply rooted in community commitment.
