The details
Community Impact reached out to the seven 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.
Angi Taylor Aramburu
Experience:
Non-Profit Management City, Non-Profit, and NEISD Boards PTA President
Occupation:
Small Business Owner
Candidate Website:
www.AngiforD9.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I’m running for this position because I care deeply about our community and want to ensure District 9 remains a safe, affordable, vibrant place to live. My top priority is public safety—ensuring enough first responders, more SAFFE officers, and improving emergency response times to keep our neighborhoods secure.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
I’ve met with a VIA representative and neighborhood groups to discuss transit challenges because many seniors in our district lack transportation to critical things like grocery stores, church, and the Walker Ranch Senior Center. I am committed to working with VIA, the city, and nonprofits to help solve this problem.
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 to balancing development with environmental preservation. I will ensure that new projects prioritize water conservation, responsible land use, and community input. Protecting the Edwards Aquifer is non-negotiable—we must enforce existing protections while promoting sustainable infrastructure and development practices that safeguard our 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?
I will build more public-private partnerships that support workforce development programs, vocational training, and apprenticeships. By working with local businesses, trade schools, and community colleges, we can create pathways to stable, well-paying jobs for those without four-year degrees, including veterans, while meeting the needs of our growing 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?
Development should enhance our city without impeding established businesses and residents. I support smart growth that includes community input, protects our neighborhoods, and ensures infrastructure keeps pace. We must balance incentives for developers with safeguards for our community to keep San Antonio a great place to call home.
Emily Joy Garza
Experience:
Former Corporate Executive for Fortune 500 Companies
Occupation:
Entrepreneur behind Dollistic
Candidate Website:
www.emilyjoygarza.com
More Information:
www.instagram.com/realemilyjoy
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running for San Antonio City Council to bridge the gap between city leadership and our neighbors. My vision is to create an accountable, transparent, compassionate, and effective city government that truly works for the people. As a small business owner with corporate leadership experience, I am the most...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
My focus will be on practical, efficient solutions that prioritize both mobility and safety. I will work to improve walkability, bikeability, and public transportation - while also enhancing road and sidewalk improvements to ensure safer and more accessible routes for all. I will advocate for increased funding for road and sidewalk repairs...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
As the only D9 Candidate who is prioritizing environmental preservations on my campaign platform, I am committed towards pushing for sustainable practices that protect our natural resources, ensuring growth is responsible and respects 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?
As a small business owner, I am the most viable candidate to champion innovative workforce development by creating career pathways that don't require a four-year degree but lead to sustainable, high-paying jobs. By partnering with local businesses, technical schools, and apprenticeship programs, I will ensure that San Antonians can access...
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’s crucial that we balance growth with respect for the neighbors that helped shape our city’s identity. I will advocate for inclusive development that ensures all voices are heard. This means engaging directly with residents and property owners to address concerns and ensure that development doesn’t displace families or small businesses...
Daniel Mezza
Experience:
District Director: US Congressman, Regional Director: US Senator, Executive Assistant: Bexar County Judge
Occupation:
Owner Puro Nitro Coffee
Candidate Website:
danielmezza.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running for office to bring back common sense to City Hall. My central focus is on prioritizing public safety, economic development, and infrastructure to ensure a stronger, more prosperous future for District 9. With my business and public sector experience, I will ensure the city budget reflects the...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Traffic light calibration is essential for mobility and safety. I will use IMP and CIP funds to prioritize neighborhood safety and infrastructure projects that increase mobility for efficient transit. Will make sure these requests are introduced early in the budget process to become a priority.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Balancing growth with responsible zoning requires a strategic approach that encourages development while preserving our precious resources like the Edwards Aquifer. I support updating zoning regulations to allow for smart growth—ensuring new housing options meet demand without overburdening infrastructure or changing the character of established communities. By working with residents...
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 focus on creating stable jobs for the majority of San Antonians who do not hold four-year degrees by supporting existing local businesses, fostering mid-level manufacturing jobs, and prioritizing the growth of homegrown headquarters rather than relying on external recruitment. By investing in policies that encourage the expansion...
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 development in downtown San Antonio continues, it is essential to balance the needs of developers with the rights of long-time property owners while ensuring that District 9 residents—who represent a large voting bloc—have a say in any proposals that go to voters. My priority is to ensure that any downtown projects...
Misty Spears
Experience:
Director of Constituent Services, Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody, Senior Paralegal, Martinez de Vara Law Firm, Former Accountant, Clear Channel Communications & Pioneer Drilling
Occupation:
Community Leader, HOA Secretary & PTO Member
Candidate Website:
www.MistySpears.com
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I’m running for San Antonio City Council, District 9, to ensure safe neighborhoods, better roads, and lower property taxes. City government must focus on core responsibilities like public safety, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. I have the experience and commitment to deliver real solutions for our community.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
North San Antonio needs targeted transit solutions prioritizing efficiency, safety, and accessibility. I support improving road infrastructure, expanding traffic flow technology, and increasing VIA’s on-demand services. We must also expand transportation options for seniors, ensuring they have safe, reliable access to medical care, shopping, and community activities.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
We must balance growth with responsible stewardship by enforcing strong aquifer protections, promoting smart development, and expanding green infrastructure. I support responsible zoning policies that encourage economic growth while preserving our water resources. Development should be sustainable, not reckless, ensuring clean water and green spaces 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?
I support expanding workforce training, trade programs, and apprenticeships to connect residents with high-paying, skilled jobs. Partnering with local businesses and technical schools will create career pathways in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Strengthening small business growth also ensures more stable, accessible job opportunities for District 9 residents.
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 balanced development that respects property rights while fostering economic growth. We must ensure transparent zoning policies, protect homeowners from unfair tax burdens, and encourage smart incentives that benefit both residents and businesses. Development should enhance downtown while preserving the character and affordability of long-time communities.
Celeste Tidwell
Experience:
Community Advocate
Occupation:
Non-profit work, Education, and Constituent Services
Candidate Website:
N/A
Contact Information:
[email protected]
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I am running for San Antonio City Council District 9 to ensure our community remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. Public safety is my top priority— strengthening police staffing, improving emergency response times, and enhancing neighborhood security measures to protect our residents, businesses, and our grandchildren...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Recognizing transportation as a critical part and barrier to employment issues . Investing or exploring public transportation improvements, such as enhancing hubs perhaps a green line or silver line can make a big dent and transit issues.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
In the case with Our Edward’s aquifer, it is vital that we maintain the preservation of the aquifer knowledge is power, in fact, this is the first election that Edwards Aquifer is offering a training session to help constituents understanding importance of what the aquifer is and what it does for our city.
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?
The city of San Antonio has always supported those who don’t have a four-year degree. Some people are not fortunate enough to be able to go to school and have a higher education which doesn’t make them unable to contribute to their city. It is our job as a city...
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?
Voter concern should be the immediate highlight to maintain responsible growth in the city of San Antonio. Ensuring full transparency, [I] would aim to protect and balance property owners' and developers' [needs].
April Chang
Experience:
Vice President of Community Outreach – Bexar County Medical Society, Former Medical Distributorship Owner
Occupation:
Board Member Executive Director of The Mitchell Chang Foundation
Candidate Website:
www.AprilForSA.com
Why are you running for office and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I was inspired to serve by my son Mitchell, who drowned at his swim school in 2018. He inspired me to build Mitchell’s Landing, an inclusive pirate-themed playground. Now I want to continue serving the community and making our community better. My central issue is community safety.
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Transit issues can be relieved by optimizing traffic flow. Traffic lane designations and traffic light timings need to be adjusted in backed up areas in a timely manner. I would also work to secure more State and Federal funding for highways, roadways, and intersection improvements.
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
Balancing our water supply and quality with growth can be challenging, but achievable. We have a well-regulated process for building while respecting protected areas and can avoid additional legislation that would raise building costs. I will protect families by maintaining safe water and an affordable cost of living.
Roughly 30% of San Antonians age 15 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 build on our strengths. Instead of chasing large corporate headquarters, I would pursue manufacturing operations, both large and small. I will improve quality of life to help draw larger, high-end manufacturers like semiconductors and provide robust small business support for smaller ones like food manufacturing.
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?
Residents should be kept apprised of the process and not have their largest investments undermined. I will involve HOAs of proposed developments or zoning changes with input meetings. I will work with developers to account for the community needs and always represent my constituents’ wishes with my vote.
Tristen Hoffman
Occupation:
Student and Pilot in Training
Why are you running for office, and what is the one central issue you wish to address?
I ran because my deep interest and deep knowledge for my age prompted me to get involved and solve the issues I see in our community, and that I also see our political leaders failing to address. The biggest issue in my opinion is overregulation, especially zoning regulations, as they...
What is your plan to solve transit issues for North San Antonians?
Long term construction projects don’t help the traffic, so once they are done we should see some improvements. But, simply expediting construction isn’t enough to alleviate Northside traffic. We also need to consider other forms of transportation such as walking, biking, or bus. Giving people more options means fewer cars...
With the continued outward expansion of San Antonio, how would you balance development with the preservation of areas like the Edwards Aquifer?
While small developments aren’t much of a risk, large developments can become an issue in this regard. The first way to help is focus on inward growth and more density by removing the super stringent level of density zoning. The next step is establishing land use regulations for larger development projects...
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?
The way to ensure those who haven’t attained higher education can secure jobs is through vocational programs. San Antonio definitely doesn’t need to provide 70% of the city with a slot in a program, but by collaborating with districts to provide resources and establish in-school career preparation, we can provide a path...
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 city needs to slow down, stop suggesting $500 million in taxes for a project that is not even necessary, and be nicer to current property owners. One way to be nicer is by changing how our eminent domain system works, and by requiring property owner consent for projects...
