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Two candidates filed to face off in the May 2 election for the New Braunfels City Council District 5 seat.
The list includes incumbent Mary Ann Labowski, who was first elected to office in 2023, and current member of the city's planning committee, Chase Taylor.
Dates to know
Voting will take place in both Comal and Guadalupe counties. Early voting hours and polling locations are as follows:
Comal County
More details
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 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. For more election coverage, visit communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Sales; Vice-Chair, New Braunfels Planning Commission Member; New Braunfels Workforce Housing Advisory Committee; Executive ...
Why are you running for election?
I am running so that the citizens of New Braunfels will actually be represented at City Hall, not ruled over. They deserve a representative that is going to fight tooth and nail for their best interests, over the interests of the select few, and outside entities. I believe that I am that person.
How would you prioritize responsible growth as the city approaches build-out?
I am going to truly listen to and consider constituent feedback. Especially when it comes to rezoning. The fact is, most of these high density, high impact developments require a rezoning request to be approved. City council is under no legal obligation to approve these requests.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Changing the culture at City Hall, Putting citizens first, Stopping irresponsible growth, Increasing police pay, Promoting homeownership for our current residents.
What do you think is the big challenge the city faces in the next five years? How do you plan to address it?
Light speed development and urbanization of our city. There is a big disconnect between the direction our current leaders are pushing for, and the desires of the majority of the citizens here. We need to review and implement feedback of the majority of our citizens. That is who we serve.
What resources do you think the city is lacking?
I think that we actually have plenty of resources, but those resources are being severely mismanaged.
Incumbent District 5 councilmember, Third-generation New Braunfels native, Certified Municipal Official, Pillar of the Community ...
Why are you running for reelection?
I am running for re-election because my constituents, family, and friends encouraged me to continue serving. Throughout my term, they have held me accountable and shared their honest feedback both positive and negative about concerns and issues facing the City of New Braunfels. Many have told me they believe I’ve ...
How would you prioritize responsible growth as the city approaches build-out?
Responsible growth demands careful planning, transparency, and accountability. As New Braunfels nears build-out, we must urgently strengthen critical infrastructure—roads, water, drainages, and public safety—while aligning development with our long-term strategic plan. Top priority: tackling severe congestion on IH-35 (heavy traffic, frequent accidents, and ongoing delays) and Highway 46 (rising volumes...
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priorities are to put the citizens of New Braunfels first and in doing so I want to manage growth responsibly, investing in critical infrastructure, and upholding strong public safety. This means continuing improvements to roads, sidewalks, transportation, and essential resources like water supply in these dry times, while ...
What do you think is the big challenge the city faces in the next five years? How do you plan to address it?
One of the biggest challenges we face is balancing rapid growth with maintaining the quality of life that makes New Braunfels special. This includes keeping up with infrastructure demands, preserving our historic character, and ensuring public safety keeps pace with population growth. I plan to address this by supporting thoughtful ...
What resources do you think the city is lacking?
As our city grows, we need to continue expanding resources for infrastructure, public safety, and transportation. This includes planning for additional road capacity, improving transit options, and ensuring our police and fire departments have the staffing, training, and equipment needed to serve a growing community. Continuing to invest in these ...