The details
Community Impact reached out to the six 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.
More information on the San Antonio May 3 election can be found on the Bexar County Elections Department's website.
Ivalis Meza Gonzalez
Experience:
Ivalis is Mayor Nirenberg's former Chief of Staff
Occupation:
Business consultant
Candidate Website:
https://gonzalezfor8.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I was born and raised in San Antonio, and have been living in District 8 for the last 15 years. I’m running for City Council because I am deeply rooted in District 8. My kids were born, raised, and go to school in this community, so I want to protect...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
While traffic caused by the highway construction on I-10 and 1604 is under the state’s authority, I will work hard to reduce traffic on city streets. That means reducing the frequency of construction projects, making sure they are handled more efficiently when they do occur, and finding ways for...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
While our city’s growth is inevitable, how we grow doesn’t have to be. On City Council, I’ll approve development that works for our neighborhoods first, and that means protecting our important resources like the Edwards Aquifer. To strike the right balance, I’ll push for the development of more single-family homes...
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?
At its best, government works to provide meaningful support and opportunities to all its residents. That’s why I’ll support effective workforce training programs to connect residents with good, high-paying jobs. I’ll also work to attract competitive employers who will hire hard-working 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?
As a council member, I will make sure everyone has a seat at the table—building consensus around the development of downtown. I will empower every resident to have a voice in these conversations so no one's needs are pushed aside. I’ll also ensure legacy businesses are included and supported throughout this process.
Paula McGee
Experience:
Former Zoning Commissioner, Former Ethics Review Board member
Occupation:
Practicing attorney
Candidate Website:
www.electpaulamcgee.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running because District 8 deserves better public safety, infrastructure and constituent service. I have the skills, leadership and vision to get it done. Public safety is priority number one – fully fund law enforcement, connect neighborhoods to SAFFE officers and increase hot spot policing in high-crime areas.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Encourage VIA to increase frequency in the most traveled and needed routes so those who want to take public transit have a viable option. Ensure money authorized by the Legislature for transit goes to VIA and not to other pet projects for City Hall insiders as it has previously.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Ensure responsible development that protects water sources and adheres to existing ordinances and requirements. It’s not a one or the other choice – we can protect sensitive areas and also accommodate the growth that is pouring into 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?
Retool the failed Ready to Work program to work with local schools to provide training and certifications for in-demand careers so students graduate ready for good-paying careers. Support the Alamo Colleges bond package that adds facilities and programs to train local students for jobs here in San Antonio.
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 rights of property owners are paramount and should be defended. It’s up to developers and property owners to negotiate directly and the city shouldn’t interfere in private property contracts. Zoning and development plans should be reviewed and updated to provide a balanced framework for our city’s growing needs.
Sakib Shaikh
Experience:
Former D8 Constituent Director, HOA president, data scientist
Occupation:
Small business owner, real estate agent
Candidate Website:
https://votesakib.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I'm running to bring smart, proactive leadership to District 8. My central focus is public safety—ensuring safer streets, tackling homelessness with effective solutions, and working with law enforcement to reduce crime while investing in community-driven programs for long-term security.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
We need a transit system that actually serves our commuters. I’ll push for expanded VIA services, smarter Park & Ride options, and better last-mile connectivity, so residents can get where they need to go efficiently. Infrastructure improvements, like safer sidewalks and bike lanes, must also be part of the solution.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Smart growth requires data-driven decision making. I’ll push for predictive modeling to assess development impact, optimize zoning policies, and protect the Edwards Aquifer. Using GIS mapping and real-time monitoring, we can balance expansion with conservation, ensuring sustainable water management while guiding responsible urban planning 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?
Investing in small businesses and entrepreneurship will also help create more job opportunities for all San Antonians. Expanding trade programs, technical certifications, and vocational training is also key. I’ll work with local businesses and schools to create pathways into high-paying jobs in construction, healthcare, and tech while also simultaneously promoting entrepreneurship.
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?
Economic growth and community stability must go hand in hand. As a business owner, I know development can drive prosperity, but longtime property owners shouldn’t be left behind. I’ll advocate for tax relief programs, community reinvestment incentives, and responsible development that supports both small businesses and residents’ long-term interests.
Rodney Kidd
Experience:
Former Fortune 50 business account executive and public servant
Occupation:
Business executive, logistics & tech entrepreneur
Candidate Website:
www.voterodneykidd.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running to bring real solutions to District 8’s challenges. My central focus is a healthy and vibrant community thru public safety and mental health reform, ensuring our city has the resources to tackle homelessness, expand mental health services, job opportunities and support law enforcement.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
North San Antonio needs practical, efficient transit solutions that align with our community’s needs. I will push for targeted road improvements, smart traffic management, and expanding VIA’s on-demand transit options to reduce congestion without wasting tax dollars on underused projects. I would like to open discussions and see if rail...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Smart growth is key. I will support responsible development policies that protect our water resources, enforce strict aquifer recharge zone protections, and invest in sustainable infrastructure to balance expansion with environmental conservation.
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?
I will work to expand vocational training, apprenticeships, and trade programs in partnership with local businesses. We must grow industries like tech, logistics, and skilled trades to create stable, high-paying jobs that don’t require a college degree.
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 development that respects San Antonio’s history and benefits local residents. I will advocate for property tax protections, responsible zoning policies, and community-driven development agreements that ensure growth doesn’t push out long-time homeowners and small businesses.
Cindy "Lou" Onyekwelu
Experience:
Texan born and raised, bachelor's in computational economics, six years of software development contracting for USAF.
Occupation:
Software developer
Candidate Website:
www.votecindyonye4district8sa.org
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I'm running for office because I believe San Antonio deserves proactive leadership that prioritizes sustainable growth and equitable opportunity for all residents. My central issue is reducing traffic congestion and improving accessibility for those without personal vehicles. As an active VIA bus rider, I understand the daily transportation challenges faced...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
As a first-time candidate, I view this campaign as a crucial learning experience, transitioning from behind-the-scenes work to direct involvement in local government. Therefore, my plan involves a multi-faceted approach: expanding VIA Metropolitan Transit routes and frequency, investing in modern smart traffic management technology, and encouraging more residents to take...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
The balance between economic development and environmental preservation requires respect for established environmental regulations, the promotion of sustainable construction methodologies, and substantive investment in advanced water conservation technologies. During our city council proceedings concerning relevant contractual agreements, I will advocate for the implementation of reinforced zoning ordinances that safeguard sensitive ecological regions...
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?
I would reach out to “Ready to Work SA” for their feedback on how their latest 2024 program launched with Alamo Colleges is doing after reviewing feedback and their rate of completion amongst residents working toward a 4 year degree v.s. Certifications. In addition, we must invest in vocational training...
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?
Balancing these needs requires a transparent and inclusive planning process. I will advocate for policies that incentivize development while protecting the character of our neighborhoods and respecting the rights of long-time property owners. This includes ensuring fair compensation for property acquisitions and providing opportunities for residents to participate in the...
Cesario Garcia
Experience:
Manufacturing, oil and gas, construction, the Texas Film Commission, and I have worked overseas at several military bases
Occupation:
Producer/creative director
Candidate Website:
https://votecesario.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
My biggest concern is that our current CC has left us in a bind with so much generational debt. There is a way to course correct this dilemma. It must begin with a new group of leaders that are set to rein in the spending. Our city doesn’t need Project Marvel…
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
First and foremost VIA must not be allowed to add 9 cents to our cell phone bill. That would be taxation without representation. My short answer is not to build another parking garage that will never be used.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Our city is becoming over populated and needs no more car washing facilities. To my knowledge that water used is hardly ever recycled.
Roughly 30% of San Antonian’s age 25 and older has four-year degrees or higher. How would you help provide stable jobs for the majority of San Antonian’s who do not hold higher education degrees?
First and foremost local governments are not supposed to be job creators. Their role is to help small businesses and provide user friendly policies so that a business can grow. If a fortune 300 company wants to relocate to SA then it is the job of the local government to provide incentives...
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?
Bake into their contracts that they must complete a project on time and under budget. If they fail to comply with a simple schedule. Any further contracts with them should be reviewed and assessed. This idea is simple work and finish your project on time under budget. Your reward will...
