2021 Voters Guide - San Antonio ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
2021 Voters Guide
Early Voting: April 19-27 Election Day: May 1
A Guide to help voters make informed choices
in the Municipal Elections
The League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area is a strictly nonpartisan organization.
The League does not support or oppose any political party or candidate.
Table of Contents A Letter to Voters
About the League............................................................................................. 2 Dear Voter,
A Letter to Voters............................................................................................. 2
How the League Gathered the Data................................................................ 2 Local elections have the most direct impact on your daily life. The
LWVSA Voter Service Committee................................................................... 2 officials you elect at the local level are directly responsible for shaping
About This Guide............................................................................................. 3 the community that you live in. It is the policy decisions they make
Helpful Information and Contact Numbers.................................................... 3 or don’t make that determine your quality of life. They establish the
Other Races in Bexar County.......................................................................... 3 priorities for your community and appropriate funds accordingly.
Voting Information.......................................................................................... 3 Their decisions can hurt or help citizens, especially in marginalized
Vote Safely..................................................................................................... 3 communities.
Vote Centers for Election Day...................................................................... 3
Voting Machines........................................................................................... 4 It is critical that you take the time to learn about the candidates
Accessibility, Languages................................................................................. 4 running for office; find the candidates that align best with your
Showing Identification.................................................................................. 4 priorities but more importantly, look for candidates that offer ideas and
Provisional Balloting...................................................................................... 4 solutions to address the issues of concern to you as a voter. This Voters
Voting by Mail.............................................................................................. 4 Guide helps you with making these important decisions. It also gives
Tracking your Ballot...................................................................................... 4 you explanations and arguments for and against the two important
San Antonio Mayor.......................................................................................... 5 propositions that are on your ballot.
San Antonio City Council............................................................................... 7
San Antonio City Council District 1............................................................ 7 Make an informed choice. Use the power of your VOTE. Help shape
San Antonio City Council District 2............................................................ 8 your community. Democracy is not a spectator sport. It works best
Texas Voters’ Bill of Rights.............................................................................11 when we participate. VOTE!
San Antonio City Council District 3..........................................................15
San Antonio City Council District 4..........................................................16
San Antonio City Council District 5..........................................................17
San Antonio City Council District 6..........................................................19
San Antonio City Council District 7..........................................................20
San Antonio City Council District 8..........................................................20
San Antonio City Council District 9..........................................................21 Madhu Sridhar
San Antonio City Council District 10........................................................21 President, League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area
Propositions....................................................................................................23
City of San Antonio – Proposition A..........................................................23
City of San Antonio – Proposition B..........................................................23
Find Out Where to Vote/Early Voting Locations..........................................24
About the League How the League Gathered the Data
The League of Women Voters is a grassroots, ALL-VOLUNTEER In compiling information for this Voters Guide, the ALL-
organization that promotes the informed and active participation VOLUNTEER League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area
of citizens in government. The League of Women Voters , strictly sent questionnaires to all candidates in contested races. To follow up,
nonpartisan, does not support or oppose any political party or candidates were contacted by email or phone.
candidate. Born more than a century ago out of the national movement The League formulated all questions asked of the candidates.
to get women the right to vote, the League is open to everyone. The Candidate replies are printed without editing or verification. Due
women and men who belong to the League share a commitment to to space restrictions, candidates were given strict word limits. The
encourage political responsibility. software truncates answers at the limit in a form that candidates can
The League is widely known and well respected for our nonpartisan see. All candidates were informed of this process.
and fair work in voter education. We also hold forums on important The League assumes no responsibility for replies not received or
public policy issues, organize voter registration drives, sponsor received after the deadline.
candidate forums, conduct get-out-the-vote campaigns and work with
Replies received after the deadline are available on the online version,
area schools and universities.
VOTE411.org
Many citizens, unsure of their rights at the polls, choose not to
More information about the candidates and responses to additional
participate. In 2018, the San Antonio League prepared the landmark
questions can also be viewed by visiting VOTE411.org, the League’s
Texas Voters’ Bill of Rights in both English and Spanish (included in
online resource for upcoming elections. Enter your address, get your
this Guide) to close the participation gap. Our newest brochure, Local
customized ballot, compare the candidates, mark your choices, print it
Elections Affect YOU! Vote! is also there and available for download in
out and bring your list to the polls.
English and Spanish.
The League of Women Voters operates at national, state and local
levels through more than 800 state and local Leagues, in all 50 states
LWVSA Voter Service Committee
as well as in DC, the Virgin Islands and Hong Kong. At all three Vice President of Voter Service – Glenda Wolin
levels, we encourage informed and active participation of citizens in Members – Barbara Baruch, Kim Cauthorn, Melanie Cawthon, Greta
their government, educate citizens on major public policy issues and Hawkins-Mathis, Martha Lankford, Alene Lindley, Ruth Peterson,
influence public policy through education and advocacy. Teresa Rendon, Teri Swartz
VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition Voters Guide layout and design by hmt3design.com
2
lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio Area
League of Women Voters of Texas
About This Guide Phone: 512-472-1100
This Voters Guide is put together by the League of Women Voters of Website: my.lwv.org/texas
the San Antonio Area, a strictly nonpartisan organization, to fulfill League of Women Voters of the United States
its longstanding commitment to promote an active and informed Phone: 202-429-1965
electorate. The League neither supports nor opposes any political party Website: lwv.org
or candidate. This public service effort is designed to provide the voters USE THE FOLLOWING TWO SITES TO:
with the information they need to help them make informed choices J Download an application to register to vote
about the candidates and issues in the May 1 Election.
J Download an application to register name and address changes
In addition, to ensure that the voters are aware of their voting rights at
J Find Early Voting locations and hours of operation
the polls and are empowered, this Guide also includes the Texas Voters’
Bill of Rights in both English and in Spanish. It lists 15 voters’ rights J Download a Ballot-By-Mail Application
in simple language that includes voter identification requirements, J View a sample ballot
provisional balloting, the complaint process to address grievances and J View the election calendar
much more. J View election results for previous and current elections
Bexar County Elections Department
Helpful Information and Contact Numbers Phone: 210-335-8683
Website: bexar.org/elections or Google Bexar elections
League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area
Phone: 210-657-2206 Texas Elections Department
Website: lwvsa.org Website: votetexas.gov
Other Races in Bexar County
Fourteen municipalities and five school boards, listed below, are having elections besides San Antonio. To see if any of them are on your ballot, go
to the Bexar Elections website, bexar.org/elections, and look on the home page to find your specific sample ballot. For more information about these
elections, please check with the city or school board holding that election.
J Alamo Heights: Street and maintenance tax. J Shavano Park: Mayor and 2 Aldermen.
J Balcones Heights: 3 Aldermen Places 3, 4, and 5. J Somerset: 3 Aldermen.
J Castle Hills: Mayor and 2 Aldermen Places 2 and 3. J St. Hedwig: Council Members Places 1, 3 and 5.
J City of Converse: 2 annexations and a charter. J Terrell Hills: Council Members Places 3 and 4.
J Helotes: Mayor and 2 Council Members Places 3 and 5. J Alamo Heights ISD: Board of Trustees in Districts 5 and 7.
J Hollywood Park: Council Members Places 1, 3 and 5. J Harlandale ISD: Board of Trustees in Districts 2, 3 and 4 .
J Kirby: Mayor, 3 Aldermen and a Charter Election. J Judson ISD: Board of Trustees in Districts 4 and 7.
J Leon Valley: Council Members Places 1 and 5 (Place 3 is unopposed J Northside ISD: Board of Trustees in Districts 5, 6 and 7.
and declared elected). J San Antonio ISD: Board of Trustees in Districts 1, 3, 4 and 7.
J Live Oak: Council Members Places 1, 3 and 5.
Voting Information
To vote in the May 1 election, you must have registered by April 1.
Vote Safely Department website, bexar.org/Elections, after early voting ends, and in
the Express-News immediately before Election Day.
J Wear a mask
When you enter the polling place and reach the front of the line, hand
J Maintain social distancing your identification to the election official at the computer, who will
J Follow sanitation instructions from poll workers check you in and have you sign the register. A poll worker will escort
J Make a list of your choices ahead of time and take it with you to you to a voting machine. If you need instructions, you can ask the poll
allow you to spend minimum time at the polling booth. worker then or at any other time.
Make sure you follow the instructions to finalize your vote. Once
Vote Centers for Election Day you have done that, you may leave. (See instructions under Voting
Voters will be allowed to vote at any open voting site on Election Day, Machines below)
just as they do in early voting. Early voting locations (listed on the back If you make a mistake on your ballot, you can ask for a new one before
page of this Guide) will also be open on Election Day. you walk away from the booth. Do not wait, because once someone
Wherever you go, you will not be turned away if you are registered else’s ballot is loaded, your ballot cannot be retrieved.
in Bexar County. Polling sites will be listed on the Bexar Elections
The League of Women Voters, strictly nonpartisan, does not support VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
3
or oppose any political party or candidate. lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio Area
Voting Machines If you do not have one of the acceptable IDs and cannot reasonably
obtain one, you can fill out a Reasonable Impediment declaration
Instructions for the Machines explaining why and show a document from another list, which is also
J Feed the card given to you by the poll worker into the machine. The on the back of the Texas Voters’ Bill of Rights.
machine will display your ballot. Make your selections.
J Once you have made all your choices, press a button and the card Provisional Balloting
is ejected. In most circumstances, anyone who comes to a polling site to vote
J Check your card carefully to make sure what is printed is what you and does not appear to meet the requirements – whether because of
chose. If it is not, let a poll worker know immediately, before you identification, not being on the rolls, or any other circumstance – can
leave the booth, so you can get a new ballot. vote a provisional ballot. A provisional ballot is sealed in an envelope
J Take the card to the tabulator, which looks like a large bin with a with a signed affidavit by the voter, who swears that he or she is eligible
laptop on top and has a poll worker next to it. to vote. After the election, a panel studies each provisional ballot
J Feed the card into the slot. This is VERY IMPORTANT – that is and rules on whether it should be counted. Each provisional voter is
when your vote is registered. notified of the final status.
J Don’t leave with your card or you have not voted. More information about your voting rights is in the Texas Voters’ Bill
J Once the tabulator has registered your vote, the card drops into the
of Rights, Pages 11-14.
locked bin underneath.
Voting by Mail
Other Important Instructions:
In Texas, you can request a mail-in ballot if you are:
J You can use the screen as it is, make the type larger or adjust the
contrast for comfortable viewing. J Going to be away from your county during early voting and on
J You may select an English – or Spanish-language ballot. You can
Election Day
also switch back and forth between English and Spanish ballots. J Sick or disabled
J The machines are also capable of selecting an audio ballot for the J 65 years of age or older on Election Day
blind. J Confined in jail, but eligible to vote
J Special machines can be taken outside for disabled voters who need To request a ballot, contact Bexar County Elections, 210-335-8683, or
to remain in their cars. download an application from webservices.sos.state.tx.us/forms/5-15f.pdf.
You can fill it out online but you cannot submit it online. You must
Accessibility, Languages download it, sign it and mail it. Completed applications must be
All polling places must be accessible to people with disabilities. People mailed, with an original signature, so they are received by the Bexar
with mobility problems are allowed by law to move to the front of the County Elections Department no later than April 20, or personally
line. A sign will be posted to that effect. delivered by the voter by April 16. If delivering in person, you will
Ballots are provided in English and Spanish. People who are not be asked to show an acceptable photo ID. (See a list on the back
proficient in either language may select as an interpreter anyone who is of the Texas Voters’ Bill of Rights, Pages 11-14.) Faxed or emailed
not the voter’s employer, an agent of the voter’s employer, or an officer applications will be accepted only if followed by a paper application
or agent of a labor union to which the voter belongs. The interpreter with an original signature within four days of sending the electronic
must take an oath of interpreter. application.
A person who is physically unable to mark the ballot or read it may ask Once you have received your ballot, you must complete it, seal it in the
for assistance from anyone who is not the voter’s employer, an agent of white envelope and then seal that in the self-addressed carrier envelope.
the voter’s employer, or an officer or agent of a labor union to which Sign the envelope as instructed – that signature will be compared with
the voter belongs. The assistant must take an oath of assistance. Two the signature on your application for the ballot to make sure both were
poll workers can also assist. signed by you. Mail the ballot back as soon as possible. If your ballot
is one page, one stamp is sufficient. If it is two pages, it may take two
Showing Identification stamps. It must be postmarked by 7 p.m. on Election Day, May 1, and
received by 5 p.m. on May 3 to be counted. You can also deliver it,
All voters must show identification before voting. The preferred sealed in the envelopes, in person at the Elections Office, from 7 a.m.
method is to show one of the seven acceptable forms of photo to 7 p.m., only on May 1. You must present an acceptable photo ID.
identification. They are listed on the back of the Texas Voters’ Bill of
Rights, on Pages 11-14 of this Voters Guide. If you have identification Tracking your Ballot
but did not bring it, and you cannot return to the polls with it before
closing, you can vote a provisional ballot. If you take your ID to the Track your mail ballot application and your completed mail ballot at
Elections Office within 6 calendar days, your vote will be counted. the Bexar Elections website: Bexar.org/elections.
This nonpartisan Voters Guide is made possible by the
League’s generous donors. Please consider supporting
the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area.
Donate @ lwvsa.org
VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
4
lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaSan Antonio Mayor
The Mayor, the only citywide elected official, is a voting member of the City Council who presides over council meetings and official city
ceremonies. The mayor also represents the city on the state, national and international levels. For more information and responses to additional
questions, go to VOTE411.org.
What would be your three top priorities as Mayor, and What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in
what specific actions would you take toward those addressing health inequities, including mental health, What are concrete steps that you can take to ensure
Candidate priorities? in San Antonio? affordable and accessible housing in San Antonio?
My top priority would be to get San Somehow 31 of the worlds first world Have adequate areas zoned for
Antonio moving. VIA Metropolitan countries have figured out universal Residential so that there is a good balance
Transit, our bus service, gets less than healthcare, but we struggle with it in with Commercial and Industrial zones.
10% of their annual revenue from fares, the US. Healthcare is a right, but this is Not having enough homes available,
yet they charge $38 for a 31 day pass. A something that has to come at the federal whether it’s single family homes or multi-
majority of the revenue comes from sales level. The city’s role has to be providing family apartments, results in expensive
tax and federal assistance funds. I propose access and resources to these services. If housing. Additionally the development
that we eliminate fares and make this we don’t have the capacity as a city to of multi-use space must be encouraged.
service free. Second is addressing traffic serve the mental health needs, we have Spaces where work and shopping are
issues, it is a problem that can be fixed. to fix that by bringing in more qualified within walking distance of home helps
Third is addressing SAWS and the lack of healthcare providers. improve the quality of life for everyone.
Justin Macaluso an effective contingency plan for power
outages.
Affordable Housing,Police Union Every City has to play a role in the health Stop High End Development that causes
Contract Agreement,Utilities and well being of its people. I know displacement within existing lower
CPSE,SAWS, VIA. Stop Developing that budget cuts were made to Mental cost neighborhoods. Stop the takeover
High Priced Housing that displace Services stemming from the Federal and of our Neighborhoods by out of state
residents out of their neighborhoods. State level. I organized protests against speculators that are causing property
Renegotiate with SAPOA to stop those cuts when our county shut its value increases displacing residents.
protecting abusive police officers. Give doors on those services. We must create Petition our Federal Government to
more control of Public Utilities to the local funding for Mental health facilities reinstate Public Housing to allow
Public. I’m giving short replies due in our City and petition our Federal financing for maintenance of Public
to very limited word space in your Government to reinstate funding for Housing.
Antonio “Tony” Díaz questionaire. Mental health facilities.
Healthy people – Ensure that we get The City needs to ensure that residents I’m taking three steps. 1.) Increase the
through pandemic as safely as possible, experiencing a mental health crisis are resources that we dedicate to home repair
with primary goal of saving lives. treated equitably and fairly. We can start and rehabilitation programs to ensure
Continue to follow CDC protocols, with how our city’s police department our residents can age with dignity in
secure vaccines for every resident. responds to mental health calls. A mental their homes. 2.) Continue to fund the
Healthy economy – Economic recovery crisis is not a crime, so we need to erase Emergency Housing Assistance Program
must be equitable and swift. The City the stigma surrounding mental health to support hardworking families affected
has allocated millions of dollars to create issues and work to serve our communities by the pandemic. 3.) Amend City
a jobs program and provide relief to better. Health inequities are typically a Charter to allow the City more flexibility
renters and small businesses. Healthy result of other, long-standing inequities. to invest in affordable housing projects
opportunities – Continue to attract good As opportunities increase, health through future bond issues to support
Ron Nirenberg jobs and invest in training, transit, early outcomes improve. efforts to meet the need for affordable
childhood development, and higher ed. housing in our community.
1. Expand mental health dollars within Since the State of Texas leadership is Increase commercial property taxes and
the City budget by reallocating the Metro negligent in all areas of health for Texas, route that money throughout the housing
Health budget. 2. Reduce pollution the City of San Antonio should develop market. Enforce equal opportunity laws
by banning plastic bags, fertilizers, it’s own mental health system. This can in banking and the workplace so that
pesticides, and herbicides through a be achieved with a 1/8th increase in the citizen are paid equitably.
buy back program. 3. Reduce traffic sales tax and by reallocating the current
congestion through reconstruction Metro Health budget. These services
of existing roadways and through the would target specific zip codes with the
creation of a Traffic Management Center highest needs. We need to strengthen
that can remotely monitor and redirect communities.
John M. Velasquez traffic.
My priorities is to stop the abuse by Property Taxpayers pay a great deal of I will work with Housing and Urban
city officials upon property owners in money into the Hospital Taxing entity Development in bringing affordable
making them mow and maintain the every year with little to show for it; in housing to areas of San Antonio where
alleys behind their homes, which are city many low to medium income areas, the need is greater then others. Including
owned. Also, to focus on improving the which are entitled to have access to expanding the existing Housing
pitiful street conditions that exist in the health and mental care facilities have to Authority locations with improved
older areas of our city, including adding travel outside their areas to over crowned apartment units.
sidewalks to many areas of the city that emergency hospitals or clinics. The city
have been neglected. Establish Haven and county should work together to
for Hope type facilities for the homeless establish adequate health and mental
people in several areas of the city and health facilities, not only for residents
Dan Martinez improve storm water drainage in many but also for the large numbers of the
areas in neighborhoods. homeless population.
The League of Women Voters, strictly nonpartisan, does not support VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
5
or oppose any political party or candidate. lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaWhat would be your three top priorities as Mayor, and What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in
what specific actions would you take toward those addressing health inequities, including mental health, What are concrete steps that you can take to ensure
Candidate priorities? in San Antonio? affordable and accessible housing in San Antonio?
1. Make sure your safe, all that want Mental Health obviously needs to Make property tax tie to the budget.
vaccines have them, your police are on be dealt with. I have a program to We have increasing property values but
the job. You have food, water and utilities administer the individuals healthiest that doesn’t mean increasing budget
at your home. Economic Development solution. Our county has funding for the general fund. So set the budget,
and safety depends on a strong police providing by our citizens which could figure out how much “taxable” property
force. Technology must be brought to have provided adequate medical and in the district and adjust to accomplish
every taxpayer and employer through physiological needs. the budget. This is simple, this is done
broadband internet. This ensures our in thousands of counties around the
teachers, Medical team, employers are all country. Existing housing is affordable
connected to the citizen. Connectivity housing. No need to demolish and force
is no longer a luxury but a necessity families through gentrification without
Denise Gutierrez-Homer that our city should encourage all new having reasonable available options to
developers to provide internet. move to.
Jobs, Public Safety and a Focus on The City has a key role to play in two We must engage the development
Families. We must invest in an immediate main areas of mental health: homelessness community and City Hall to build
Jobs Plan that addresses the need to and our criminal justice system. Both housing that is affordable and accessible.
hire back now. We must chase job areas require education and mental health For far too long the City has driven
opportunities across the country and diversion investments to ensure those up the costs of housing through
do all we can to help people get back to with mental health challenges receive the overregulation. We must roll back
work and help them keep more of the care and compassion they deserve prior the cost structure at City Hall and
money they earn. We must oppose any to becoming homeless or any interaction still maintain safe building standards.
efforts to defund our police and protect with our legal system. We must focus Make no mistake, our regulations and
our police and firefighters. And finally, on creating a healthy community and property taxes are pricing people out of
our families must have all the tools that means City Hall must invest in affordability and their homes. We cannot
Greg Brockhouse necessary to own a home, make a living eliminating food deserts and focusing on continue the cost increases and expect
wage and be safe in their communities. clean water and air. our citizens to buy or afford shelter in
our city.
First, I don’t believe that a sitting mayor Unsafe neighborhoods; unemployment; To the renter, affordable housing is
should be on the board of SAWS or low educational attainment; being able to afford rent for a decent
CPS. It fosters a clear conflict of interest. transportation deficiencies; lack apartment. HUD offers assistance to low
As mayor I will relinquish the seats on of housing: and a lack of focus income residents who can’t afford rising
these boards. Secondly, the city keeps on prevention, are some of the costs. To the homeowner, affordable
giving developers permission to build socioeconomic factors that impact health housing means being able to pay your
apartments right next door to designated inequities. Metro Health has developed mortgage and taxes. The city needs to
single-family homes neighborhoods. an Office of Health Equity to address get serious about tax relief and ending
This leads to more gentrification. The needs of under-served people of color. It inflated appraisals for homeowners. For
city needs to get better at saying “No” works on initiatives such as investment the homeless, affordable housing may
to developers. Next, I will continue in prevention and reducing the cost of mean access to a well-run shelter. It is
Tim Atwood and expand the economic recovery jobs health care. The city should continue imperative to take a holistic approach to
training programs. to support any initiative that improves this multifaceted problem.
quality of life.
J. Miller, Gary Allen, No response received by print deadline. See VOTE411.org for any later responses.
Michael “Commander”
Idrogo, Ray Basaldua
Frank Adam Muniz, Dropped out of race after deadline
Joshua James Galvan
VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
6
lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaSan Antonio City Council
The City Council is the policy-making and legislative body, focusing on the provision and efficiency of basic services, their districts’ growth, capital
improvement projects, land use and development, economic development and other issues. For more information and responses to additional
questions, go to VOTE411.org.
San Antonio City Council District 1
Do you see any major factor(s) preventing members
What would be your three top priorities as a City of the disability community from achieving economic
Council member, Including one district-specific What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in resiliency? And what actions, if any, would you take
priority, and what specific actions would you take addressing health inequities, including mental health, to improve economic outcomes for members of the
Candidate toward those priorities? in San Antonio? disability community?
Reign in CPS Energy and make sure Our Metro Health department has been More than one in four Americans
that customers are not subjected to one of the most underfunded health with a disability lives in poverty. We
storm related price-gouging. As your departments in the US and the pandemic must prioritize integrating people with
council representative, I will end the has shown us the inequitable local disabilities into the workforce where
practice of allowing CPS Energy to impacts. We need to stabilize leadership possible and support access to housing,
self-govern. Preserve the character of our by hiring a Metro Health Director and nutrition, & health care for those who
neighborhoods and prioritize streets, bring Metro Health’s funding in line with can’t work. The city can help through
sidewalks, and drainage over glamorous, our peer cities. Investing in mental health public outreach and education to local
big-ticket projects. District 1 is a large support will free up police to address employers, and must ensure that CARES
employer in the hospitality industry. crime and save money on our local jails. Act funds are inclusive and accessible to
I will ensure we take care of the small I will consider health in all city policies members of the disability community.
Mario Bravo businesses that have been with us all as they play a role in creating a safe and
along and build back stronger. healthy environment.
Homeless Outreach: Downtown is the The City needs to ensure our local Any individual who can not access
epicenter. City can be more effective population has equitable access to basic City services or information is at a
in supporting homeless residents needs and services. Health, including disadvantage and being treated as a
through our outreach program that mental health, is an understated necessity. second-class citizen. That was the basis
incorporates social workers, ID recovery, I supported funding for Asthma research for my Spanish-translation policy and
public restrooms, and mobile showers. and prevention in 78207 where the our push to make City Hall accessible
Housing Stability: Under 1 Roof highest rates of youth mortality was to differently-abled individuals: ASL
replacement program, the formation of found. As a City, our job is to hire and translators at all public meetings +
a renter’s commission, right to counsel listen to the experts, and ensure that we captioning. Make City websites accessible
for residents facing eviction Pandemic are leading with science and compassion for all residents of our community,
Recovery: Eviction moratorium, utility – especially when it comes to healthcare. including alt text for social media posts.
Roberto C. Treviño disconnection moratorium, direct relief Non-discrimination ordinances for
for families and small businesses. differently-abled residents.
My top three priorities as city council The city’s role in addressing health Honestly i don’t see any major factors
are public safety, that includes the police inequities will need to consider every at this time that would prevent the
and sex trafficking, public health which income level and socio economic disability community from being able to
PHOTO includes homelessness., and economic conditions to address what is lacking in achieve economic resiliency. However it
development. Specific actions i would certain communities and continue to may take them a little longer to bounce
NOT take towards these issues are as follows: I offer programs addressing these issues.. back. I would ensure that they are offered
SUBMITTED will vote NO to proposition B. My plan Mental health is often overlooked as a the opportunity to improve.
is to ensure that our police department disparity as far as the city’s role we should
is properly funded, maintained and continue to partner with organizations to
expanded. The amount of officers to bring forth resources, answers, education
Cyndi Dóminguez population ratio is disproportionate. and acceptance.
1. Health education, Health care for Education, and free medical help for deep inequities face disabled workers
everyone, free or affordable health care everyone and education on dealing with who, despite their labor, are unable
for all 2. Renewable energy, Solar panels, health inequities and mental health. to make ends meet. We can help by
wind energy for every home owner, free expanding access to affordable and
or affordable utilities for all 3. Education, accessible housing, transportation, health
Free education, college , skills training, care, and nutrition.
for everyone. free internet, affordable cell
phones, and incentives to learn.
Lauro A. Bustamante
Stay Connected
@lwvsa @lwvsa @lwvsa @lwvsa League of Women Follow the League of Women Voters
Voters of the San
Antonio Area
of the San Antonio Area
The League of Women Voters, strictly nonpartisan, does not support VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
7
or oppose any political party or candidate. lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaDo you see any major factor(s) preventing members
What would be your three top priorities as a City of the disability community from achieving economic
Council member, Including one district-specific What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in resiliency? And what actions, if any, would you take
priority, and what specific actions would you take addressing health inequities, including mental health, to improve economic outcomes for members of the
Candidate toward those priorities? in San Antonio? disability community?
My three top priorities as a council The mental heath issue has been a city I see several factors that are preventing
member are 1 public safety, 2 issue for many decades. Instead of the disabled community from achieving
homelessness, and 3 the city budget spending 25 or more million dollars economic resiliency, they are: 1.
Actions: 1. Increase the work force and on a critter bridge, the bridge could’ve Transportation 2. Access to job training
funding for more modern equipment and should’ve cost much less. That and education. I would improve the
for the first responders. 2. Enforce the leftover funding could’ve been diverted access to more punctual and timely
Texas penal code ordinance 3005. Action and used for mental health treatment. transportation services. I would
must be taken to prevent sexual assaults, Our priorities are not in the correct encourage the business communities
drug use, alcoholism, and trespassing by order. Mental health issues have greatly to offer job training (apprenticeship
the homeless population. Programs exist increased with the pandemic and the programs) and certifications for the
to help them 3. Limit access to the city severe weather that we have experienced. disabled community.
Raymond Zavala funding to non profits that have become The city should increase the funding for
dependent on the budget list. mental treatment.
1. Environmental Reform 2. Public COSA serves a key role in providing Yes, I believe the major factors include,
safety Reform 3. Public Transportation / a healthy environment for citizens to but are not limited to, transportation
infrastructure Our administration would achieve their fullest potential. Increasing issues, access to affordable housing,
enhance our city’s parks system. That pollution policies & accessibility to and lack of accessibility across the city’s
process begins with revamping our park greenspace will have immediate positive infrastructure and in public spaces. We
development standards. Neglected Parks health benefits. Expand Sick & Safe will work to make not only this district
in lower income areas would be restored Leave, our most vulnerable populations but this whole city more accessible and
with native species and added amenities. deserve the ability to stay home if they inclusive for the disability community.
We also look forward to expanding linear are sick. Expansion of the Mental Health Expanding our City’s connection of
parks projects like Beacon hill to include Unit is key. We should also provide people with disabilities to opportunities,
Martinez and Olmos Creeks, increasing services to assist individuals experiencing services, and information is forefront.
Matthew J Gauna native tree cover thus providing cooler mental health challenges to improve their Improving quality of life will increase
temperatures. quality of life. economic outcomes.
San Antonio City Council District 2
Do you see any major factor(s) preventing members
What would be your three top priorities as a City of the disability community from achieving economic
Council member, Including one district-specific What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in resiliency? And what actions, if any, would you take
priority, and what specific actions would you take addressing health inequities, including mental health, to improve economic outcomes for members of the
Candidate toward those priorities? in San Antonio? disability community?
The first priority for our District is The city has an obligation to make I have worked with disAbility SA for
to ensure that the city Boards and sure there are proper outlets, programs many years and have hosted “Fiesta
Commission seats are filled with proper and resources for ALL health related Especial” for 6 years. I currently work
representation. Safety, Educational and issues and actively promote prevention. with members of disAbility SA to
Economical Increase are all top priorities Having healthy citizens improves the learn more about what can be done to
that must be actively worked on. We overall growth of our city. Social factors ensure inclusiveness. I believe that the
plan to open our community centers such as housing, education, income, team has made great forward progress
as Hubs to give constituents equitable transportation, access to healthy and we can still ensure city programs,
access to resources such as: initiatives and affordable food, and employment policy and procedures are inclusive
educational classes. This will also create influence health quality. Programs need and have equitable representation of
the stepping stone to ensure the city to be supported and monitored to the community. City information and
Nneka “Miss Neka” COVID Recovery program is effective ensure every community, district, race resources should be accessible and City
Cleaver and active in the District. (etc) is being equally served and actively employment should be reflective of the
supported. population.
Health and Wellness-Tackle the drug Yes The Perry Plan is committed to The homes being built are all not suited
problem and emotional stresses of my addressing the disparities on mental for people with disabilities. As we
Community in partnership with faith health and emotional well-being. I also commit money for Infrastructure projects
based organizations and nonprofits. plan to invest money into helping people we must consider the many people who
Protection of Rights – Civil, human, heal mentally and emotionally. ride around in scooters and our disabled
Reproductive, Women’s Rights Youth seniors. I commit to being a champion
Advocacy – Mentorship, summer jobs, for people with disabilities.
creating opportunity for the less fortunate
Housing Reform – Creating a pathway
for first time homebuyers and resident
home repairs Public Safety – Getting the
Walter E Perry, Sr. Community involved in helping police
reduce crime
vote411.org
Compare the candidates · mark your choices · print your list · take it to the polls
VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
8
lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaDo you see any major factor(s) preventing members
What would be your three top priorities as a City of the disability community from achieving economic
Council member, Including one district-specific What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in resiliency? And what actions, if any, would you take
priority, and what specific actions would you take addressing health inequities, including mental health, to improve economic outcomes for members of the
Candidate toward those priorities? in San Antonio? disability community?
Public Safety, Affordable Housing, and The City of San Antonio must be the No more factors are preventing the
Economic Development. 1. Increase leader and custodian for our citizens. disability community from recovering
community participation in community I led the City’s policy on “Racism is a than the general community. Our
policing. 2. Work to attract affordable Public Health Crisis.” We will continue community, as a whole, is facing a
home builders. 3. I will work with my to work towards eliminating inequities difficult recovery. Members of the
colleagues to make it easier for small with my continued support of a living disability community must be provided
businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and wage increase, laser-focused on reducing the convenience of having disability
start a new business. the wealth gap and health gap. accessible infrastructures. I will also
continue to encourage businesses to hire
the disabled.
Jada Andrews-Sullivan
Youth Development Curriculum – I I believe the city has a huge role to yes, there are major factors that are
would promote in holistic evidence based play in health inequities, mental health preventing members of the disability
curriculums that inspire and encourage problems add to the crime rate, and community from achieving economic
our youth to achieve higher goals. Public addressing these issues ahead of time will resiliency. I believe that creating
safety – I will work with the city, to lower help us to lower crime. resources, and connecting recourses that
crime through community investment, are available to ensure that our disabled
and work to ensure accountability Community is being trained and help
within our police department & repair ensure productive job placement.
the trust between community and law
enforcement. Gentrification – I will work
to create solutions for the gentrification
Pharaoh J. Clark that is plaguing our families and senior
citizens.
My top three priorities as a City Council Addressing health inequities, especially Our city is not ADA compliant. That is
member would be infrastructure those impacting mental health, is critical a major factor. With over 2000 miles of
improvements, public safety, and to mitigating bad downstream outcomes. missing or damaged sidewalk, how can
economic development. These items Over the past few decades, we have seen those who have impaired mobility and
are intertwined; the built environment, what happens when we do not address don’t drive navigate our city? Economic
including streetlights, influences crime health issues: police are forced to respond resiliency starts with mobility resiliency;
rates, as does economic opportunity. As to mental health crises, emergency rooms fixing our sidewalks, making sure bus
councilwoman, my first action would be are swamped with routine medical care, stops are accessible, providing shade
to direct my staff to identify pre-existing and countless years of life are lost to a when and where possible. We must
funding opportunities to improve lack of preventative care. We must fully also work to ensure our workforce
street lighting, while working to free up fund our community clinics and public development sites are accessible and
Kristi Villanueva additional funding for this effort. health outreach, focusing on underserved provide adaptive training.
communities.
1. Rescue – Immediate Aid directly to The city has a large role as quality of Members of the disability community
D2 residents via Covid relief resources life is a standard most taxpayers expect. need advocates in positions of power to
to include PPE, PPP, housing, food, Mental Health and Health in general ensure access, equality and opportunities
vaccines, etc the first 100 days. 2. should be a top priority of the city. Our with equity at the forefront. I would
Recover – Maximize 2017 Bond Metro Health Department should be assure the disability community is
Reprogramming funds, inclusion leveraging resources with the University represented in areas of authority
on future Bond Planning, equity to Health System and even the private sector throughout the district. The major factor
Prek4SA and inclusion in SA Ready to when applicable. preventing members of the disability
Work initiative during the 1st term 3. community from achieving economic
Revive – Community Development resiliency would be a lack of opportunity,
via commercial and residential growth access and advocacy.
Norris Tyrone Darden by building political, educational and
economic Coalitions for catalytic and
sustained growth over 8 years
District 2 is not an island by itself so, This is a tough question because health Disabilities and the ADA is very
as Council Person you are partially is mainly a federal and state issue. When important to me! San Antonio still has
responsible for the entire City of this falls upon the city it takes resources a lot to accomplish to bridge the gap for
San Antonio. Having said that, 1) which were not intended for the city to persons with disabilities. Curb cuts, and
Develop a council of neighborhoods handle. Health issues in the broad sense accessibility lead the list for me to insure
called, The Community Congress; is not the role of the city. We do want that each and every person have access
2) Raise $34 million in private funds to have mental health professionals for to their neighborhood, to services and
for a Development called Towne East areas like policing and homeless when are afforded the same opportunities as
to incld. facilities for East Central encountered but, we want to quickly refer anyone else.
& Judson ISD and “gift” the bldg to them to the proper areas. The federal
COSA; 3) An aggressive safety program government’s inability to handle this is
Chris Dawkins to make District 2 a very safe area. putting more strain on local government
Administratively, I would like to bring to deal with.
continuity to the ofc.
The League of Women Voters, strictly nonpartisan, does not support VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
9
or oppose any political party or candidate. lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaDo you see any major factor(s) preventing members
What would be your three top priorities as a City of the disability community from achieving economic
Council member, Including one district-specific What do you consider the city’s role, if any, in resiliency? And what actions, if any, would you take
priority, and what specific actions would you take addressing health inequities, including mental health, to improve economic outcomes for members of the
Candidate toward those priorities? in San Antonio? disability community?
1. Verifying that the 2017-2022 Bond The city has the ultimate responsibility If there’s any factors hindering the
Programs that were passed are coming of provide the resources and platform disability community from achieving
to fruition for the district, ensuring that for health disparity to be addressed. As economic resiliency – it’s a lack of
monies are being spent as designated the City is generally the first contact adaptability. Actions needed: connect
and correct any moved or misallocaiton. in addressing or helping families with to the disability communities and their
2. Focus on economic growth as it someone with mental health issues, they families, hear their needs and provide
pertains to the individual needs of the should be over equipped with mental resources.
community. 3. Address housing disparity health professionals. They should be
that will occur as we come out of this partners with the first responder and not
pandemic. a back up call.
Dori Brown
Community and Public Safety. Dealing It’s on the state to re open mental health People have to be motivated to work.
with Homeless issue. Increase Police clinics. The city cannot solve everything. Take appropriate steps as needed as far
Cadet class every 6 months from 50 to But I do know they have to have some as the Disabled go. I am a Disable Vet
150 Cadets. Have 10 Safety Officers form of city register for folks 60 and myself. Increase Disability Pay for Disable
available for District 2 to reach out twice above to track their status especially Veterans. Have a discount on property
a month to Neighborhood Association during bad weather to ensure they get to taxes for Disabled Combat Veterans 50%
Members. Crime in San Antonio has their Dr. Appt and deliver any Meds as and above. Caveat there are on 2380
increased 34% from 2019 to 2020. needed during inclement situations. Police Officers. 700 are now eligible for
Create a Jobs Program to include the retirement. We need to increase our force
Homeless. But first we need to OPEN to 3500. We are the 7th largest City in
Andrew Fernandez up our businesses. Staying in a Closet or the Nation with 1.5 million and growing.
Vicencio LTC (Ret.) Basement is NOT the answer especially I will vote against any wasteful spending
when you need to feed your family.
My first priority is too listen to the Along with police reform, mental health The major factors preventing the
people’s immediate needs and fix them! should be taken into consideration in disability community achieving economic
My second priority is to establish regards to domestic calls. If dispatchers resiliency is bridging the knowledge gap.
and maintain a community based are aware of calls involving mental From the Texas workforce commission to
(Dist. 2 only) dashboard that will health concerns or crisis they can direct local small business, individuals must be
allow us to track community feedback response to provide social workers or evaluated. Then develop a plan of action,
with an online/mobile tool for more crisis interventionists to be present to fulfill the strategy and finally review and
accountability and realistic expectations. deescalate the situation. When financially evaluate the results (making necessary
Third I plan to recruit and or draft feasible we should encourage more adjustments where necessary). Without
community ambassadors to increase free health fairs along with community standards we have no way to establish
knowledge of healthcare disparities, stakeholders with the intent of better measurable growth.
Carl Booker financial literacy, improve opportunities informing and or addressing mental
for second chance citizens, & champion health and best health practices.
small businesses
When negotiating our City’s budget, I The pandemic has demonstrated the By increasing access to accessible &
will prioritize funding for community growing need for mental and healthcare affordable housing, transportation,
wellness, including education, housing, services, and it is the city’s duty to healthcare, and childcare, in addition
and more. Second, we must fund respond to that need. Increased access to to paid sick and family leave, we have
increased street lighting throughout the these services in senior centers, churches, the opportunity to break down some
district and develop a more efficient and schools, needs to be at the forefront of the barriers that exist particularly for
infrastructure improvement process of the city’s COVID19 recovery strategy. people with disabilities. If elected, I will
that makes it possible to complete more We must also increase our access to establish an advisory board made up of
projects per year. Third, I will advocate quality and affordable food options by community leaders and organizations
for a sustainable COVID Recovery Plan establishing community food gardens and who will make policy and budgeting
that emphasizes direct relief to families expanding our existing grocery options, recommendations. It is crucial that
Jalen McKee-Rodriguez & small businesses and ensures equitable such as the HEB on WW White. this board includes, and is attentive to,
distribution of vaccinations. members with disabilities.
Michael John Good No response received by print deadline. See VOTE411.org for any later responses.
This nonpartisan Voters Guide is made possible by the
League’s generous donors. Please consider supporting
the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area.
Donate @ lwvsa.org
VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
10
lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaTexas Voters’ Bill of Rights
Your Voting rights are protected. These rights are guaranteed to qualified registered voters.
1. You have the right to vote if you are a qualified registered voter.
2. You have the right to cast your ballot in a manner that ensures privacy. You have the right to vote without any
person trying to influence your vote and vote in a booth that prevents others from watching you mark your
ballot.
3. You have the right to stay in the booth for as long as necessary to complete your ballot.
4. You have the right to receive up to two replacement ballots if you make a mistake and spoil your ballot before
you cast your ballot.
5. You have the right to request assistance when voting from a poll worker or anyone of your choice except your
employer, or an officer of your union or their representatives.
6. You have the right to vote if you are disabled. The polling place must be accessible, and there must be an
accessible voting booth.
7. You have the right to vote if you cannot read or write. You have the right to bring an interpreter with you who
can translate.
8. You have the right to vote but must show one of the IDs listed on the reverse side of this sheet.
9. You have the right to cast a provisional ballot if you believe you are a qualified registered voter but a poll
worker tells you that you are ineligible to vote. (See reverse for details).
10. You have the right to vote once at an early voting location during the early voting period within the territory
conducting the election.
11. You have the right to follow up any challenge to your right to vote through the complaint process.
12. You have a right to vote if you are not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction and have registered as a
voter after your sentence is fully discharged.
13. You have the right to take this Voters’ Bill of Rights or any other papers, including a sample ballot, voter guide
or campaign material, into the voting booth with you. Please remove all papers when you leave the booth.
14. You have the right to vote at any polling place in Bexar County* on Election Day any time between 7 a.m. and
7 p.m. for state and federal elections – hours may vary for local elections. If you are in line at the polling place
when the polls close at 7 p.m., you have the right to vote.
15. You have the right to bring your children into the voting booth with you.
If you feel that your right to vote has been violated in any way, contact the Secretary of State
toll free at 1-800-252-VOTE(8683), via e-mail at elections@sos.texas.gov
or by regular mail at Elections Division, P.O.Box 12060, Austin, Texas 78711.
*For counties other than Bexar, check with your county election official.
Prepared by the League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area
The League of Women Voters, strictly nonpartisan, does not support VOTERS GUIDE • 2021 Municipal Election Edition
11
or oppose any political party or candidate. lwvsa.org • © 2021 League of Women Voters, San Antonio AreaYou can also read
