That old saying, "I wasn't born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could," suits Tom Goodman just fine. Tom was born in Richmond, Virginia, but has lived in the Rio Grande Valley for nearly 40 years.

Tom and his supportive wife Melinda, who is a native of the Resaca City, started their life together with a backyard wedding on Ben Lora Lane. It was attended by none other than Mr. San Benito "Benny" Montalvo himself! They raised SBHS alumni in "the Yellow House" on Bonham St, regularly order the botanas from Vicky's, and are season ticket holders for the Mighty Greyhounds. 

Tom is the kind of guy that calls a day on the beach fulfilling work. For nearly 35 years he has dedicated his expertise to South Padre Island's economic development. For the last 5 years, Tom has been seated on the South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Advisory Board and has been an integral part of the incredible 35% increase in Hotel Tax Collections for the City of South Padre Island. Much of that growth has come from the vacation rental industry - an industry in which Tom is an expert. Tom is leading the charge to form the Vacation Rental Managers Association of South Padre Island as the president of the organization. 

Tom is prepared to cultivate that same prosperity in San Benito. He recognizes San Benito has the potential to harness a huge economic boom. As a city commissioner Tom will help facilitate the residential development San Benito needs to improve its economic health and overall quality of life.

Tom also advocates for the empowerment of the citizens of San Benito. He knows the community can utilizing their autonomy to achieve their goals for their neighborhoods and wants to teach them how.