Polk County commissioners interviewed Anthony ("Tony") Blosser for a Planning Commission vacancy. Blosser, who said he works as a high-school educational assistant and coaches varsity basketball, also serves on the Dallas City Council and several local organizations. He framed his interest as rooted in long-term stewardship of Polk County's agricultural and natural resources while accommodating measured growth.

Blosser said the biggest land-use challenge is "balancing growth with the protection of agricultural land" as Polk County faces pressure to provide more housing. He called for prioritizing inside-city redevelopment and infrastructure investment to reduce pressure on farmland, and for clearer, simpler regulations that make enforcement easier.

On property rights and regulation, Blosser said private-property rights are "essential" but that limited, clear regulation is needed to protect public safety and orderly growth. Asked about infrastructure, he raised concerns that water and sewer capacity should be considered before approving additional housing, warning that housing built without services can remain unoccupied. He described experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders on city projects and said he would emphasize public engagement if appointed.

Commissioners did not make an appointment during the meeting; the interview concluded with expressions of condolence from the board for Blosser's recent family bereavements.

Why it matters: Planning Commission appointments shape how Polk County applies state and local land-use laws, reviews development proposals and balances housing needs with protection of farmland and infrastructure capacity.