The candidates are incumbent Christopher Willis and Michael Capizzi.
What you need to know
Willis has served on the dais since May 2022, after receiving 81.48% of the vote, according to previous reporting by Community Impact.
What else?
Early voting is scheduled for April 22-29. Election day is May 3.
A map of District 2 can be viewed here.
Candidates were asked to limit responses to 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers have been edited or cut for style and clarity or to adhere to guidelines.
Michael Capizzi
Experience:
27 years in infrastructure and budgeting, experienced in community communication, collaboratively resolves complex issues, leadership...
Candidate Website:
https://www.capizzifordistrict2.com
Contact Information:
830-302-6065
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
Smart planning: advocate for well-designed amenities, businesses and public spaces to make District 2 a great place to live, work and play. Traffic and infrastructure: fast-track critical road improvements and public services through smart investments and public-private partnerships. Stronger community voice: hold town halls, provide transparency and take...
How do you handle different priorities within the community?
I prioritize issues based on three key factors. Quality of life: does it improve traffic, safety, housing or public amenities? Long-term solutions: is it a lasting fix or just a temporary patch? Financial responsibility: are we using taxpayer dollars wisely? My professional expertise, combined with years as a District 2 resident, gives me the insight to make informed decisions that benefit families, businesses and our community’s future.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
Collaboration is about leadership, not politics. With real-world experience building high-performing teams and bringing stakeholders together, I ensure clear communication, common-sense solutions, and actionable results. As a 16-year resident of District 2, I understand the community’s needs and will deliver effective solutions.
How do you plan to involve residents in decision-making processes?
I’ll prioritize transparency and accessibility by involving residents through: regular town halls and community meetings for real dialogue. Interactive digital platforms or community advisory boards for surveys and feedback. Open-door leadership to ensure availability. I’ll ensure you’re informed before decisions are made, and your concerns will be actively considered.
Christopher Willis
Experience:
current councilman, Texas Certified Municipal Official, Texas Leadership Fellow, active community volunteer, Army Airborne Veteran
Candidate Website:
https://Willis4District2.com
Contact Information:
830-660-2244
What are your top three priorities that you would like to achieve if elected?
My top priorities are to champion the community-led strategic plan, continuing to advocate for balanced growth between commercial and residential, and continuing to be a strong voice for road work needs across the district and for New Braunfels' interests on the [Texas Department of Transportation] projects.
How do you handle different priorities within the community?
I will address community priorities by continuing to engage with my monthly “Council Connect” events so we can keep our regular and collaborative decision-making interaction. We also need to align initiatives with residents' needs, utilizing resources effectively to ensure balanced development to improve the quality of life for all residents.
How do you approach collaboration with the other council members and city stakeholders?
My council collaboration is strong, fueled by shared readings and discussions about learned alternative options. My community ties, built through extensive volunteerism over several years, provide me with deep stakeholder understanding and open communication channels on diverse issues.
How do you plan to involve residents in decision-making processes?
During my time on council, I have prioritized direct access to the council. My number is available and I schedule monthly weekend meetings for residents to meet with me to engage in conversation. I've also sought input from community groups and utilized the city’s different advisory committees for focused feedback.
