Seven candidates vying for district one city council seat

The seat for Austin City Council District One is a competitive one.

But sitting council member Ora Houston knows who she wants for the job.

“Today I am endorsing Vincent Harding for City Council District One,” said Houston Monday morning.

Houston announced her endorsement at ‘Country Boyz Fixins’ restaurant in East Austin.

“My campaign will focus on stopping displacement, affordability, transportation, healthcare, criminal justice reform and education,” said Harding.

“The district is in transition, experiencing unparalleled population growth, demographic changes, inadequate and failing infrastructure, lack of employment opportunities and rising property taxes,” said Houston.

Of all the districts on the ballot this mid-term, district one has the most candidates listed. On the ballot is:
Vincent Harding, Mitrah Avini, Natasha Harper-Madison, Misael Ramos, Mariana Salazar, Reedy Spigner, and Lewis Conway Jr., who did prison time.

“Coming out of prison, running for office was not part of the parole plan,” said Conway.

But he was able to meet the requirements asked by the city clerk. He says aside from many problems in East Austin, he wants to put one thing on top of his agenda:

“Healthcare for all...making sure people have healthcare regardless of their income status, regardless of their housing status, regardless of their immigration status,” said Conway.

“The rising property taxes are displacing longtime residents, increased housing prices are causing affordability crises,” said Harding at his endorsement rally.

Election day is quickly approaching and with an ever-changing district like district one, it will take someone who is willing to put in some work. Voters will have plenty of options, in deciding on the person best for this job.

Here are the upcoming candidate forums: 

•    Sept. 27: District 5, South Austin Senior Activity Center, 3911 Manchaca Road, 6:00 p.m.
•    Sept. 27:  District 8, South Austin Senior Activity Center, 3911 Manchaca Road, 7:30 p.m.
•    Oct. 11:  District 9, City Hall Chambers, 301 W. 2nd Street, 6:00 p.m.
•    Oct. 11:  Mayor, City Hall Chambers, 301 W. 2nd Street, 7:30 p.m.