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With Mayor Ron Nirenberg finishing his final term as mayor, 27 candidates have entered the race for the open mayoral seat in the upcoming May 3 election.
The details
Community Impact reached out to the 27 candidates who will be on the ballot.
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.
Candidates Sonia Traut, Robert T. Melvin, Brandon Gonzales, Bill Ruppel, Armando Dominguez, Diana Flores Uriegas, Clayton Perry, James “Jae” Melvin, Andrew Fernandez Vicencio, G Zambrano, Michael “Sam” Samaniego and Robert Salinas did not respond to the questionnaire.
More information on the San Antonio May 3 election can be found on the Bexar County Elections Department's website.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I’m running for mayor to deliver common-sense, actionable solutions that make San Antonio the safest, strongest, and smartest city in America—while preserving its unique identity. I’ll focus on reducing crime, boosting economic development, and improving infrastructure to ensure balanced, sustainable growth for our city and its future.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
As your District 8 Councilman, I’ve championed major transportation improvements, including support for the $1.2 billion 2022–27 Bond, funding key road and drainage projects in North San Antonio. With prior service on VIA and the MPO, I bring unique insight into solving our region’s traffic and infrastructure challenges.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
As District 8 Councilman, I’ve championed sustainable development and protected the Edwards Aquifer. In 2020, I supported alternative funding to preserve aquifer efforts and opposed environmentally risky developments. My record reflects a balanced approach—promoting growth while safeguarding our vital natural resources and maintaining the integrity of conservation programs.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
As councilman and chair of the Economic and Workforce Development Committee, I’ve prioritized practical job training and higher wages for residents without college degrees. I pushed to improve the underperforming Ready to Work program and advocated for incentive policies that ensure businesses provide quality, accessible jobs for San Antonians.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
I support revitalizing downtown, but not at the expense of transparency or equity. As mayor, I’ll demand a bold economic plan for the East Side, ensure true community input, and never support using general fund tax dollars for a stadium—those funds belong to our neighborhoods, not private sports franchises.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
The city of San Antonio has many issues, but they all stem from one very real fact: economically, we are behind every Texas metropolitan city. My 15 years as a financial analyst, 10 as a wealth manager, and 18 studying capital markets, municipalities, and economic cycles put me ahead to…
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Infuse more private sector competition into a transit system that actually works. This means contacting and talking to transit companies (rail, driverless, etc.).
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Expansions must meet standards that preserve critical areas within San Antonio. This means filling the temporary gaps with public sector funds, but ultimately holding developers/dev companies accountable where they need to be.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Stable jobs in San Antonio in 2025? That isn't the case for anyone, degree or not. Our local economy must be diversified to weather the downturns in the economy. I do that by picking up the phone and creating roundtables with publicly traded/Fortune 500 companies.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running for Mayor with a bold vision: a city where every family thrives, every neighborhood feels safe, and every child has a bright future. We have a serious poverty issue that is the root of many problems, and we need to address it through aggressive economic development.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
To get a handle on these issues, we first have to rein in the bureaucracy that causes unnecessary delays in the start and completion of road construction projects. We also need to intently research and move toward a mass transit system that works for San Antonians.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
San Antonio desperately needs more economic development, but it’s critical that development doesn’t come at the expense of our water or air quality. We can have both, and we’d work closely with environmental regulatory officials as we continue growing. I maintain strong relationships with those officials at the state and federal levels.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
To give back to the community that welcomed me over a decade ago and allowed me to build a company and family. I want to create economic opportunities that reduce poverty and build a brighter future for San Antonio's children and grandchildren.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Create mobility hubs, which are neighborhood-focused transportation centers that promote sustainable travel and enhance accessibility. This includes prioritizing high-demand areas, supporting diverse transit modes, and integrating real-time digital platforms. Other goals include expanding public transit, active transportation infrastructure, Vision Zero funding, and promoting transit-oriented development for vibrant, accessible communities.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
In order to balance San Antonio's growth with Edwards Aquifer preservation, strict regulations in the recharge zone must be enforced while integrating sustainable development practices, promoting transit-oriented development to limit sprawl, and creating public awareness of conservation efforts. These strategies will ensure responsible development while protecting the aquifer for future generations.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I bring a dynamic and multifaceted background in military service, education, ministry, and political leadership—experience that uniquely equips me to lead San Antonio into a prosperous future. As a former university instructor, I taught “Critical Thinking,” vital for tackling complex city challenges. Economic Development is the central issue I plan to address...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Ensure we have efficient public transportation. Ensure all needed Infrastructure Upgrades are implemented. Utilize Smart City Technology to promote better traffic flow.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Encourage high-density development in urban cores and existing infrastructure corridors to reduce urban sprawl. Expand mixed-use developments that incorporate residential, commercial, and green spaces to limit excessive land consumption. Require sustainable building practices for new developments, including water-efficient infrastructure and green spaces. Continue and expand land conservation initiatives that prevent overdevelopment in sensitive recharge zones.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I want to ensure San Antonio is strong, safe, and vibrant—not for a few, but for everyone. Our city has incredible potential, and we need leadership with the experience and urgency to move us<br>forward. I'll prioritize public safety, housing, infrastructure, and ensuring City Hall is accountable to the people.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
We must bring road construction projects to timely completion, and I would work with VIA Metropolitan Transit to understand how we might potential Green Line expansion to also meet North San Antonio’s growing needs.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
San Antonio must balance growth with protecting the Edwards Aquifer, our primary water source. Projects like Guajolote Ranch raise concerns over wastewater discharge into recharge zones. Enforcing environmental assessments and investing in advanced treatment and conservation will ensure sustainable growth while safeguarding our water quality and vital Ecosystems.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
Throughout my life my community has always been there for me and it will take a lifetime for me to repay the residents of San Antonio. That is why I am running for Mayor, to continue to ensure residents quality of life and improve it. The main issue I will address is housing...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Residents on the Northside of San Antonio face issues with traffic congestion, brought on by overlapping construction schedules, delays, and an increasing population. Coordination with our state and federal agencies, and local municipalities to time projects and attempt to alleviate budget shortfalls is necessary. Coordination between highway construction and arterial roads are necessary...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Protecting our water supply is of upmost importance for the future of San Antonio. We need to balance the outward expansion and development with protecting the aquifer by looking at alternative water extractions to preserve and focus on reducing contamination. I will work closely with SAWS, scientists, and community members to protect the aquifer.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
When I was eight, walking with my grandpa, I asked why his neighborhood had no sidewalks. He said, 'they don’t care about us.' That moment shaped me. I’m running to ensure every resident and every neighborhood is heard, invested in, and never left behind. City Hall should work as hard as you do.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
As AAMPO Chair, I’ve fought for increased transportation funding and smarter infrastructure investments. I support expanding Advanced Rapid Transit, improving major corridors like 281 and I-10, and increasing multimodal options. My plan ensures North San Antonians have efficient, accessible, and forward-thinking transit solutions that keep up with growth.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you<br>balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
I will strengthen aquifer protections, promote sustainable growth, and invest in smart infrastructure. As Municipal Utilities Chair, I fought for responsible water policies. I will ensure development prioritizes conservation, green space, and long-term sustainability, so we can grow without sacrificing critical natural resources like the Edwards Aquifer.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
Neighbors, old high school friends, and family tell me that there is no leadership in City Hall when it comes to solving issues they care about. I have held various leadership positions throughout my 24 years as an Army soldier, so I chose to run for Mayor of San Antonio.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Improving transit for North San Antonio requires addressing congestion, expanding transportation options, and making mobility more efficient. Adding more park-and-ride locations in North San Antonio may help solve issues for some people. Investing in AI-driven traffic lights that adjust in real time to reduce bottlenecks would help all around.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Environmental preservation, especially when it comes to protecting the Edwards Aquifer, requires smart development that supports economic growth while safeguarding our water supply and natural resources.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
We could connect non-college jobs to those that are seeking work. I would connect with local high school counselors about presenting seniors with job opportunities available in the city, as well as information about trade schools. That way, these students could share with other family members that are struggling.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I have served on the City Council representing District 9 for almost 8 years. During this time I have been encouraged by my constituents to run for San Antonio. After 8 years on the Council I have learned slot, accomplished slot and believe I still have more to offer the residents of San Antonio with common sense leadership.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
As the Councilman for District 9 I have supported the extension of Hardy Oak connecting the separate parts, the extension of Sontera Blvd. to connect Stone Oak with Loop 1604 at Gold Canyon, adding more than a dozen new turn lanes to speed traffic flow across D9.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
As the D9 Councilman I have carefully watched over development proposals in D9 that may impact the Aquifer. I have opposed a few that wanted to develop in sensitive areas and provided little benefit to the community, and have supported others that made sense and supported owners property rights.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running for mayor to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient use of tax dollars. I will audit local government operations, eliminate waste, and keep the public informed about city projects. Additionally, I will optimize police patrols and resources based on crime data to enhance public safety in San Antonio.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
I plan to explore innovative solutions such as expanding carpool and rideshare programs, implementing dedicated transit lanes, and considering rail or light rail systems. I will also focus on improving infrastructure, reducing congestion, and ensuring safe, efficient connections to key areas, prioritizing accessibility and convenience for North San Antonians.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
I will focus on sustainable development by ensuring growth protects the Edwards Aquifer. Through responsible zoning, water conservation policies, and green infrastructure, we can balance expansion with preserving vital natural resources, ensuring long-term environmental health for San Antonio.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running as a proud City of San Antonio volunteer, decorated U.S. Air Force veteran, and Executive Director of Global Chamber San Antonio. Appointed by three mayors, I served as Chairman of the City’s Small Business Advocacy Committee, helping direct over $1 billion to local small and minority-owned businesses…
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
I support expanding multimodal transportation options, including advanced VIA service, park-and-ride hubs, and tech-driven transit solutions to reduce congestion and improve commute efficiency for North San Antonio. We must also explore regionally connected systems and future-ready investments that reflect where the city is headed—not where it’s been.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
As a four-year volunteer on the Community Advisory Committee for the Edwards Aquifer Authority, I’ve been deeply engaged in protecting our most vital natural resource. I’m very proud of the EAA team—both the dedicated staff and the Board—for their leadership and commitment to sustainability. I also helped amplify their efforts...
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
Want to find one truthful woman or one truthful man in San Antonio (City). Want, need to forever keep the truth. Want to stop the evil woman (evil) or the evil man (evil) from leading you in my City. Want to address or stop evil in my City.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Create, construct, and build a levitation train on electromagnetic rail from San Antonio to Monterrey, from San Antonio to Austin, from San Antonio to Houston, from San Antonio to Dallas, and from San Antonio to El Paso. Want to create three dimensional travel on the ground and in the air.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Want to teach the truth to a woman or to a man. Want to teach love to a woman or to a man, and want to stop evil from affecting you.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
Teach total and complete money independence. Stop the evil woman or stop the evil man from taxing you, me, and other.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
Meet with one woman and meet with one man at every site in San Antonio and bring together all.
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I had an apartment complex let me live in sewage water for 2 months and didn’t address the issue. Instead of placing me in another unit they just ended my lease and made me homeless. I want to make sure that I help those in my community who may be…
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
We need to finish the roads and address this issue, we need to get VIA one system that can comprehend their growth as well as be an easy and safe way for people to obtain transit.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Absolutely, I feel as though making sure there is a balance when it comes to the development with preservation in the areas of Edwards Aquifer would be essential. As well as teaching the community how their impact can help that area as well.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
If they have been in the field for a long time and have the capability to do what the job is asking, I believe making sure a job checks their references when it comes to whatever that person may be applying for. Holding jobs accountable to let the applicant know…
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
The first question that needs to be asked is if this type of development is feasible with annual incomes lagging 15-20% at any given time. Rising costs and stagnant wages point to a crisis if this goes through. The answer is to stop this development and refocus on economic revitalization...
We must invest in workforce development programs that actually produce results. We need to attract companies with good-paying jobs. I'll cut bureaucratic red tape, attract good jobs, support small businesses, and invest in workforce development so all San Antonians have the opportunity to benefit from a stronger local economy.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
These projects have huge potential in terms of economic impact and quality of life improvements. But we must be fair in respecting and addressing the needs of the property owners. I’ve led economic development regionally, nationally and internationally, and I have experience in balancing the needs of developers and landowners.
To provide stable jobs for San Antonians without higher education degrees, we’d focus on upskilling through SA Ready to Work, attract industries like cybersecurity and healthcare, and collaborate with North Mexico on nearshoring. Reintroducing trade classes and vocational programs would also equip individuals with practical, career-ready skills.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
To balance development and the needs of long-time property owners, San Antonio should engage stakeholders in planning, enforce zoning policies, preserve historic assets, ensure affordable housing, and create community benefit agreements. Supporting small businesses and integrating local economic growth will also help maintain downtown's vibrancy while managing development.
Increase and promote trade school opportunities. Foster private-public partnerships to ensure the maximum number of citizens can afford to participate in training. Also, help provide a better path for older adults to pursue a higher education if they desire.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
Ensure developers contribute to infrastructure improvements and community benefits, such as affordable housing and public amenities. Offer incentives for projects that enhance local neighborhoods without displacing residents or small businesses. Implement property tax freezes or caps for seniors and long-term property owners to prevent displacement. Explore tax abatements or deferments for property owners...
We must ensure programs like Ready to Work deliver real opportunities by aligning job training with in-demand careers. In my first 100 days, I’ll assess the program to drive 90% job placement within 90 days, ensuring San Antonians without degrees gain stable, well-paying jobs.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
With property taxes increasing alongside everything else, San Antonio deserves more transparency into how City Hall makes decisions, especially decisions that potentially require billions of our taxpayer dollars. Taxpayers shouldn’t be the last to know and first to pay when it comes to downtown developments.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 25 and older have four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold higher education degrees?
We must continue attracting business to the city, invest in our small businesses, and retain and expand our current businesses; all while diversifying our top industries. In order to do this we need to build our workforce by providing access to education and upskilling opportunities...
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
I love the Spurs and believe they unite our city, but all residents must benefit from Project Marvel. The current Frost Bank Center site should give residents access to opportunities in education, training, healthcare, reliable internet access and housing. The new site should also have increased access to affordable housing, and nearby employment opportunities...
I’ve championed workforce training, trade programs, and small business investment to<br>create sustainable, well-paying jobs. I will expand vocational training, apprenticeships, and partnerships with local businesses to ensure San Antonians—regardless of degree status—have access to strong career pathways that support families and strengthen our city’s economy.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
I support responsible development that protects longtime residents, prevents displacement, and delivers real community benefits. I have fought for stronger local business protections and fair housing policies. My priority is ensuring growth benefits everyone—not just developers—by prioritizing affordability, infrastructure, and economic opportunity for the entire community.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
In order to get to any agreement, residents and small business owners must have a voice in major development decisions through public meetings and advisory councils. To reduce citizen opposition to development will involve agreements from developers to ensure local hiring, infrastructure improvements, and fair compensation for displaced residents.
The next Mayor has to be the leading spokesman and advocate for growing the San Antonio economy, increasing opportunities for more jobs and better paying jobs. The city should incentivize economic development wisely while not putting economic growth on the back of tax payers and utility rate payers.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
I believe that growth should pay for growth. Any new sports venue should be paid for by the owners/developers and not by local taxpayers unless the voters vote to do so. Much anticipated growth around the Baseball Stadium and a new downtown Basketball Arena also will bring additional development...
I would focus on expanding vocational training, apprenticeships, and workforce development programs that equip individuals with valuable skills. By partnering with local businesses and educational institutions, we can create pathways to stable, well-paying jobs, ensuring that all residents have access to opportunities for success, regardless of their education level.
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
I oppose using taxpayer money to fund the entertainment district, as it places an undue burden on residents. Instead, I advocate for prioritizing development that benefits the community as a whole, ensuring adequate housing, preserving long-time property owners’ interests, and creating sustainable economic opportunities without relying on public funds.
While degrees open doors, skills build futures. We must ensure that all San Antonians—regardless of education level—have access to stable, well-paying jobs. That starts with expanding vocational training, certifications, apprenticeships, and partnerships with small businesses and industry leaders to create a strong middle-skills workforce. I believe in "learning and earning"...
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
Development without accountability leads to displacement. I’ve spoken to seniors and longtime residents in neighborhoods like 78207, 78210, and 78208—many of whom feel like they’re being pushed out of the homes and communities they’ve lived in for decades due to rising property taxes, rent, and outside investment. That’s not just a policy issue...
As development through downtown San Antonio continues with projects like the downtown Missions stadium and the proposed sports and entertainment district, how would you balance the varying needs of developers and long-time property owners?
It would come to a team effort, merging with the city council and city manager to make sure that we are all doing what is best for the community the way to go. Yes, I can give you what I want, however, its not about me at the end of…