The Mayor by Megan Kelley

Nacogdoches was not on Roger Van Horn’s radar until his car broke down in front of a car dealership in the 70s. After staying a few days he and his wife headed back to Kansas City and decided then that Nacogdoches was the place for them. Van Horn shared personal and professional experiences Tuesday in an interview.
Van Horn opened his dental practice and has had it running for over thirty years. Most recently to be a part of the community Van Horn became mayor of Nacogdoches in 2007 and is now on his third term.
Being mayor many would think that he ran Nacogdoches. That is far from the truth. A strong manager committee governs Nacogdoches, Van Horn explained. The county is divided into four sections and each ward elects their own commissioner. Out of the commissioners one is elected to become mayor. As mayor he is the chairman of the city commission and the town is actually ran by the city manager.
Being mayor many would think they were paid. Van Horn said that his position is not a paying one. Not being paid would turn many people off, not Van Horn. His love for government and being able to help the community is conveyed in the smile he gave when speaking about the topic.
While Van Horn’s love for the community is easily seen he did share his frustrations. Living in a small town it is hard to bring in new ways to help revenue and he has had to watch his personal preference.
“I had to learn to set aside my personal philosophy for the city,” Van Horn said.
Van Horn had to learn that it was not about him. It was about the city and people of Nacogdoches.
“I had to learn to think what is best for the city of Nacogdoches,” Van Horn said.
Van Horn has learned to be tough when it comes to making decisions for what is best for the town and not individuals. People are not always the happiest with decisions the commission has made but Van Horn reminded us that they are out to help the community.
“You need to give all elected a shot, give them a chance,” Van Horn said. “It’s a tough job.”
As for what is next for Van Horn he is unsure. He said that at one point he committed he would stay in the mayor position for five terms if allowed. Even if not elected to five terms Van Horn has some idea of what he would like to do.
“I wouldn’t mind teaching. I love teaching,” Van Horn said.
Van Horn encourages young people to get out and be part of the community.
“I would tell you start right now being engaged doing something,” Van Horn said. “The quicker you learn to give a little of your time because somebody needs something you’ll find the rewards are great.”