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Three candidates filed in the May 2 election for the New Braunfels City Council District 6 seat.
The list includes incumbent council member April Ryan, who was elected in 2023, test engineer Steven Voges and retired veteran Nikki Shaw.
Dates to know
Voting will take place in both Comal and Guadalupe counties, according to the city's website. Early voting hours are as follows:
Comal County
Learn more
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.
Incumbent District 6 Councilmember, Former President NB Downtown Association, Leadership NB graduate, Spark Small Business ...
Why are you running for reelection?
Serving District 6 and this community has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life, and I am ready to continue the hard work of ensuring New Braunfels remains the best place in Texas to live, work, play and raise a family.
How would you prioritize responsible growth as the city approaches built out?
Our growth demands a constant commitment to improving our core infrastructure. Smart, strategic investments in roads & traffic management are necessary to address congestion and improve connectivity. I am proud of the work done on the Pedestrian and Bike Network Plan, intersection Improvements, timed signals & numerous road projects.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Leveraging my extensive experience as a small business owner & community leader, I’m dedicated to addressing the concerns of all citizens. As a fiscal conservative, I have successfully balanced infrastructure improvements, public safety priorities, protection of our natural resources and expanded access to parks & trails to improve our quality of life.
What do you think is the big challenge the city faces in the next five years? How do you plan to address it?
Managing rapid growth while preserving a high quality of life for all. I plan to address these by continuing my fiscally conservative approach to our budget, prioritizing bond funding for infrastructure improvements, supporting initiatives that encourage diverse housing options and championing policies that strengthen resource protection and conservation efforts.
What resources do you think the city is lacking?
We are fortunate to have beautiful existing parks and more in development, but I am a constant advocate for expanding our network of sidewalks, bike trails and natural trails. A community that can move throughout the city safely without dependence on cars is a healthier and more interconnected community.
Test Engineer, Engineering, programming, teacher, technician, sales and manual labor
Why are you running for office?
I want to see our government work for the people.
How would you prioritize responsible growth as the city approaches built out?
Aligning development with infrastructure capacity. New Braunfels is on path to be built out by 2035, as the population of New Braunfels continues to grow, quality of life for current residents shouldn’t be impeded. We need forward-thinking planning, roads and utilities out pacing new development and a public-serving government.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
1) Plan infrastructure for the long term which supports New Braunfels current and future residents. Taking into consideration all options, while keeping in mind of the disabled, elderly and the community. 2) Hold new development to a higher standard. 3) Promote transparency and accountability of our city government.
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 will be managing the rapid growth, while not compromising current infrastructure, water resources and quality of life. I support regularly updated Capital Improvement Plans, require growth projections to be tied directly to infrastructure capacity, developer impact fees and contributions that offset the cost of growth.
Retired U.S. Army, Retail, Licensed Massage Therapist, 20 years of Military Leadership experience, Diverse team...
Why are you running for office?
I’ve been a servant leader all my life. I retired three years ago, bought my house, did some remodeling, continued my education, and searched for ways to get involved in the community. I strive to bring strength, courage, integrity, and honesty to my service to the citizens of this community.
How would you prioritize responsible growth as the city approaches built out?
I believe in starting with the end state in mind. Determine what level of growth (size, population, business, traffic, tourism) is sustainable with available resource; then, strategically grow and develop within that framework to modernize while keeping the unique atmosphere New Braunfels is known for intact.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
To be a voice for New Braunfels citizens and ensure our retired, and young families can afford to live and thrive here. Promote transparency in all decision-making processes. Conserve local natural resources, community character, and heritage the citizens of New Braunfels love.
What do you think is the big challenge the city faces in the next five years? How do you plan to address it?
What resources do you think the city is lacking?
Lack of reliable public transportation. With over 100,000 residents and a large tourism industry, options are limited. Currently the cities only option ends service too soon. Expanding transit options would help residents and visitors enjoy New Braunfels, ensure they can get home safely, and reduce traffic throughout the day.
To rebuild the trust of New Braunfels citizens in local elected leaders. All people want to be seen, heard, and valued. It is the responsibility of any public servant to meet with citizens and actively listen to their concerns, to hear their ideas and suggestions on decisions that affect them.
What resources do you think the city is lacking?
Natural habitat and vegetation are being replaced with over development. Water is vital and we currently face a serious shortage in local aquifers. As the city grows, it’s imperative to protect natural resources and allocate funds to bolster the police, fire, and EMS departments to ensure citizens safety.