A petition is underway in the City of La Marque as various residents seek to recall Council Member Joseph Lowry from District C. The petition was started by Hayley Winkelmann, a local resident and mother. The petition requires 191 verified signatures, and as of Tuesday afternoon, it had surpassed 75% of its goal, according to Winkelmann.

The Drainage Project

The petition effort began after concerns emerged about a drainage project from Winkelmann. While walking her baby around the neighborhood, she noticed a number of culverts and ditches that were full, which she felt posed a safety risk for community members. Winkelmann took photos of these areas and sent them to public officials. She told KGTX 7 she sent around 60 emails to the Public Works Department, including specific addresses and locations that she believed required clearing and maintenance.

The concern for these areas arises now that hurricane season in Texas has arrived. If these drains and culverts are not improved before flooding starts, it could lead to damage in neighborhoods and potentially the loss of homes. Winkelmann expressed her frustration, saying “Over 80% of culverts are more than 50% impacted.”

According to emails reviewed by KGTX 7, La Marque Public Works advised Winkelmann, “per City Ordinance (Chapter 44, Sec. 44-7b and Chapter 56, Sec. 56-29), property owners are responsible for routine maintenance of the ditch area that fronts their property, including keeping it free of trash, debris, and overgrowth.” Although this is city policy, Winkelmann responded that many residents are not in the proper physical condition to maintain their ditches and culverts, which is why she has reached out to Public Works for support.

Main Concerns Leading to Recall

The recall effort, however, is not solely rooted in the drainage issue. Winkelmann stated that there are multiple reasons behind the decision to start the petition, one of which being Lowry’s demeanor towards both community and council members. Winkelmann furthered this point by saying, “I don’t like people who harass and attack other people and make allegations without being able to provide proof, which is something that he [Lowry] has done for five years in our community.”

Winkelmann stated that community members who signed the recall have expressed concern about the way that Lowry addresses the public, including the things that he writes publicly online. She alleged that Lowry made serious accusations against former Councilman James Ross at a recent council meeting.

According to a public video from the June 9th council meeting, Lowry said, “I think there are a lot of questionable things about you and children, in my opinion,” during an exchange with former Councilman James Ross.

Winkelmann expressed opinions that Lowry is not professional, and he does not conduct himself in the way that an elected official should. “As an elected representative for our community, we need someone who understands that if someone goes low, that’s okay. You still need to respond and conduct yourself and behave like the elected official and professional adult that you are,” she said.

Lowry’s Past Controversies

Lowry has also faced past criticism by fellow councilmembers for his public remarks. The La Marque City Council voted to censure him, citing what they described as inappropriate language and conduct during council meetings.

In October 2024, The Houston Chronicle reported that court records alleged Lowry’s business, Six Brothers Concrete Pumping, owed approximately $43,800 in taxes, penalties, and fees. When contacted by a Galveston Daily News reporter, Lowry reportedly denied the allegations and responded with profanity, according to the Chronicle.

Lowry was again questioned about these back taxes at a town hall meeting, which prompted a heated exchange that reportedly included a verbal outburst directed at another journalist. Numerous residents voiced concerns about Lowry’s transparency during the same town hall meeting.

The Petition’s Status

According to Hayley Winkelmann, the petition has been well received by community members, citing steady support and ongoing signature collection. As of Tuesday afternoon, she shared that the petition is close to completion, needing just 30 more signatures.

Although the target number is 191 signatures, the petition aims for 250 signatures. After the signatures are complete, the La Marque City Clerk must contact and verify every name; therefore, Winkelmann stated she wanted to have more signatures than necessary in case a few people were difficult to reach.

Lowry’s Stance

KGTX 7 reached out to Council Member Lowry for comment, but he did not respond by publication. However, in statements to The Galveston County Daily News, Lowry said, “I don’t know what the outcome is. I doubt they’ll get the signatures. I highly doubt they’ll beat me at the ballot box if they do. We’ll see what happens. What I have done is respond factually to lies, misinformation and shifting political narratives.”

Lowry, however, isn’t isolated in this incident. Others have voiced support for him, or expressed skepticism about the recall, both in person and on social media. Much of the support was observed on social media and the Lowry News Network.

Lowry told The Daily News that he stands by his work done for his citizens and the city as a city councilman.

“Obviously they don’t like me, and I don’t care. I’m not there for them. I’m there for the citizens.” Lowry told the Daily News, referencing city officials.

What’s Next

If the City Clerk verifies the petition’s required signatures, the recall question will be placed on the November general election ballot, where voters in District C will vote on whether to recall Council Member Lowry and trigger a vacancy or replacement process.

KGTX 7 also reached out to the City Manager’s Office for comment but did not receive a response as of publication.

Photo Credit: La Marque City Council YouTube

Editor’s Note: This article includes quotes and opinions from individuals involved in an active political recall effort. KGTX has not independently verified the personal claims or allegations made by those involved. All individuals named were given an opportunity to comment. Allegations against Council Member Lowry remain unresolved as of publication.