Incumbent council member Mackenzie Kelly is seeking re-election after serving one term following a narrow 2020 runoff win. She faces just one challenger: housing market analyst and former appraiser Krista Laine.
The contest may be the most ideologically split in Austin this fall. Kelly is the lone conservative voice currently on the City Council dais, while Laine has drawn more liberal support through her campaign.
Learn more about the candidates ahead of the Nov. 5 election. Eligible Austin residents have until Oct. 7 to register to vote, and early voting starts Oct. 21 and ends Nov. 1.
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
* indicates incumbent
Krista Laine
Experience:
Expert Austin housing market analyst; longtime community leader; Access RRISD co-founder & president; Columbia University graduate
Occupation:
Former real estate appraiser
Candidate Website:
https://www.kristalaine.com
Contact Information:
512-650-8094
Why are you running for this office, and what's the central issue you're hoping to address?
D6 needs results not rhetoric on 911 response times; power, water & wastewater reliability; traffic solutions & safer streets; housing affordability & neighborhood stability; homelessness; extreme weather & wildfire preparedness. I have 10 years professional experience analyzing Austin housing, transportation & utilities projects, plus a track record as an effective D6 community leader & problem solver.
Following years of increased property taxes and costs for city services, how would you aim to keep Austin affordable for residents?
Austin has long had complex regulations that are expensive and time-consuming to navigate. We must streamline regulations, internal processes, and departments, so that permits and approvals are easier for individuals to obtain. It is also critical to maintain a strong financial rating.
What are your mobility goals, both citywide and in your district? Are there any upgrades you'd seek for your constituents?
Without improved express connections from suburban D6 to the increasingly robust transit network in central Austin, car traffic into central Austin will continue to grow unabated. Existing D6 hike/bike trails should also connect with each other, Lakeline Station, an extended Redline Parkway, and the extensive Cedar Park trail network.
What approach should City Council be taking in relation to public safety and the police department?
We have already waited too long for better 911 response times, deployment of limited public safety resources, police morale & retention. It’s time for a fresh voice from D6, who values public safety & brings a track record as an effective community leader and consensus builder across lines that usually divide.
Mackenzie Kelly*
Experience:
Current District 6 council member
Occupation:
Current District 6 council member
Candidate Website:
https://www.mackenzie4austin.com
Contact Information:
512-522-3022
Why are you running for this office, and what’s the central issue you’re hoping to address?
I’m running for re-election to continue my work restoring the police force and prioritizing public safety. My central goal is to build a thriving, affordable community in District 6 by improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and reducing the tax burden for residents.
Following years of increased property taxes and costs for city services, how would you aim to keep Austin affordable for residents?
To keep Austin affordable, I’ll advocate for property tax relief, efficient city budgeting, and support for local businesses. I’ll work to stabilize utility rates, explore renewable energy, and ensure residents, especially seniors and low-income households, aren’t priced out of their homes. Affordability remains my top priority.
What are your mobility goals, both citywide and in your district? Are there any upgrades you’d seek for your constituents?
My mobility goals focus on reducing traffic congestion and creating an accessible transportation network for all residents. I’ll work on improving roads and infrastructure, increasing efficiency, and ensuring a safe, reliable system citywide and within District 6, addressing the needs of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
What approach should City Council be taking in relation to public safety and the police department?
City Council should prioritize community policing, transparency, and accountability. I support increased officer training in de-escalation, bias, and mental health, alongside data-driven policing to address crime trends effectively. Engaging the community in decision-making and fostering trust will create a balanced, fair, and effective public safety system for all residents.
