Houston City Council At-Large,

Place 4

City council is Houston’s legislative body. Members enact and enforce all ordinances and resolutions; adopt the annual budget; confirm the mayor’s appointments; and are responsible for the appropriation and issuance of bonds, awarding of contracts and approval of expenditures over $50,000. Limited to two 4-year terms.

Candidates

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BACKGROUND: What motivated you to run for City Council, and what

unique skills or experience make you the best candidate for the role?

ISSUES: What are the two most pressing issues you plan to address as

a City Council Member, and what specific strategies will you use to

solve them?

Kristal Mtaza-Lyons

I’m running because I believe every Houstonian deserves a safe place to live, opportunities to thrive, and a voice that truly represents them. Every day, through my work with youth, families, and communities, I see the impact of broken systems and how innovation can change lives. I’ve built housing, created jobs, and launched programs that keep our streets safer. My hands-on experience and passion for serving people make me ready to deliver real solutions for Houston.

City of Houston,City Council At- Large Place 4
Two urgent issues are public safety and affordable housing. Too many families live one crisis away from losing stability, and our neighborhoods need better resources to stay safe. I’ll champion smarter investments in community-based policing, youth programs, and innovation hubs that reduce crime by creating opportunity. I’ll fight for housing policies that prioritize working families and ensure no child sleeps without a safe place to call home.

FUTURE: What is your vision for the city in 10 years, and what steps

will you take to achieve it?

I envision a Houston where every resident no matter their zip code has access to safety, housing, and opportunity. In 10 years, I see thriving neighborhoods, smarter infrastructure, and strong partnerships that uplift our people. I’ll expand innovation centers, workforce pipelines, and affordable housing while strengthening small businesses and green solutions. Together, we can build a city where our youth feel supported, families feel secure, and every Houstonian has a chance to succeed.

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: How will you engage residents in the city’s

decision-making process?

I believe the best solutions come from listening to the people most impacted. I will host community roundtables, youth forums, and neighborhood listening sessions across all districts to ensure every voice is heard. Through my daily work creating housing, supporting families, and keeping our streets safe, I know change happens when we work together. I’ll make City Hall more accessible by bringing decisions to the people and ensuring transparency in every step.

COMMUNITY: What are your favorite things about your city?

What I love most about Houston is our strength, resilience, and heart. During Hurricane Harvey, I worked side by side with families through Houston Strong, helping rebuild lives and witnessing neighbors come together during one of our city’s most traumatic times. That spirit of unity inspires my vision for a Smarter, Stronger Houston a city where innovation, housing, and opportunity meet compassion. Houston’s diversity and determination are what make us unstoppable, and united.