Here are the candidates for Fort Worth City Council District 4 in May 3 election
Elections for Fort Worth City Council are in May of odd-numbered years. If no one receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters will head to a runoff on June 7. Nine of the 10 districts have contested elections. Alan Blaylock is running unopposed in District 10.
Early voting for the May 3 election runs from April 22-April 29.
Charles Lauersdorf
Age: 42
Campaign website: www.CharlieForFortWorth.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Email or text/call - charlie@charlieforfortworth.com or 817-381-5236
Occupation: Small business owner and U.S. Marine 1stSgt
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies (AMU - 2010), Executive MBA from TCU (2020)
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought, with years): Yes
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the city of Fort Worth: Served on Fort Worth City Council since 2023
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No
Who are your top three campaign contributors?: Fort Worth Fire Local 440, Fort Worth Police Officers Association, Tim Fleet
Why do you want this job?: To continue serving District 4 and to ensure we see common sense governance and policy making at the municipal level. We also have a VERY important bond election coming up that will require someone who is negotiation-savvy, finance-savvy, and quite frankly - someone willing to speak up and fight for their district!
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?: Public safety, infrastructure, property taxes. In that order!
What does it mean to be a successful council member?: To be a successful council member, you must be willing to listen to the community you serve, work with others, and find creative ways to solve problems. You have to be able to clearly articulate the needs of your district with city staff and find a way to balance the needs and desires along with the budget. You also have to be a strong, effective communicator - even when it’s a difficult subject. Transparency and extreme ownership goes a long way as a councilmember!
What are the biggest challenges facing District 4?: As north Fort Worth continues to grow, our aging infrastructure and increase in traffic is starting to become an issue. This, along with a growing homeless population, is giving the appearance of a downward trend in our area, though that’s not telling the full story. Our crime is down but we need more traffic enforcement to better protect our neighborhoods from those wanting to use our streets as a speedway. We also need to ensure the RIGHT resources are being allocated to tackle the homelessness issue, while enforcing current laws on the books.
What are the biggest opportunities facing District 4?: District 4 has very little land left to be developed, so the land we DO have needs to be developed responsibly and should serve the community it’s in. Additionally, we don’t have a proper community center here in Fort Worth but I plan to fix that during the next bond election!
What are the district’s biggest needs heading into the 2026 Bond, and how will you make sure they get addressed?: First we need to address the aging infrastructure and ensure we are getting the proper equipment we need, such as pedestrian activated beacons at cross walks and traffic signals where they’re warranted. We need to ensure our roads are not just patched, but properly fixed and able to withstand the increase in traffic. Second, we need a proper community center for all demographics in District 4. I have already begun the process of informing the Fort Worth Lab of some of our critical needs to ensure they’re addressed in the upcoming bond election and I will fiercely fight to ensure we are receiving our fair share of the bond!
What role (if any) should the city play in addressing literacy struggles in the Fort Worth school district?: While District 4 doesn’t have any FWISD schools, recent events have shown that at times, the city should absolutely get involved in school-related issues. Regarding FWISD’s literacy struggles, I feel the city SHOULD play a part, but as a partner. We have amazing libraries in Fort Worth that could and should be partnering with the FWISD to create out-of-school programs that build upon what they’re already doing in schools. Our local community centers should be hosting reading events for before and after school programs that also compliment what our libraries and schools are doing. We can also leverage our strong business partners in helping to create and/or fund programs aimed at improving literacy.
What concrete steps will you take to address affordable housing in Fort Worth?: As a policymaker, I will push for policies that attract homebuilders and limit the red tape and fees they encounter. Every fee tacked onto housing gets funneled to the end user, so we have to find a balance between what’s effective and what’s not. I will also continue to work with developers that bring in mixed-income housing, that does NOT remove the development from tax rolls, which would burden the taxpayer that much more. I will also continue to look at zoning and land use in district 4 specifically for what makes the most sense when it comes to multifamily and duplexes.
What are the most important qualities for the person who replaces outgoing Police Chief Neil Noakes?: 1) Must be willing to listen to the community and take the time to build rapport and trust. The new chief must take the time to actually understand the neighborhoods and truly grasp their concerns. 2) He/she must be able to lead the department with integrity and fairness, being a servant-leader above all else. Without the trust of the rank-and-file officers, the department can not grow. He/she will need to prioritize officer safety and well-being, including mental health support. 3) MUST be able to communicate effectively and with purpose. Chief Noakes was a master communicator and would ensure everyone from the Mayor to our neighbors understood what was happening, why it was happening, and what would happen next - even when it was difficult.
What else would you like to share with District 4 residents about your vision for the city that we haven’t asked?:District 4 is a special place - we all know that. We have everything from the empty nesters to the new families, so there can’t be a one-size-fits-all approach. We need someone willing to fight for what we need - and want. But also someone that truly understands how city finances and taxes work. I want District 4 to be a safe, clean place for families to live, work, and play. My vision for District 4 is one that has adequate police presence, improved quality of life for those of all ages, and drivable safe streets. I will ensure our city stays focused on providing the basic services first while being good stewards of the tax dollars we’re entrusted with!
Teresa Ramirez
Age: 58
Campaign website: Teresagramirez.com
Best way for voters to reach you: I want every voter to know that I’m always accessible—whether by email or cell phone. If elected, I will never forget that I’m here because of you. Your voice matters, and I will always make time to listen.
Occupation: Business Owner/Community Liason and Consultant
Education: USA Real Estate
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought, with years): City Council 2024, and State of Texas 2024
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the city of Fort Worth: Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in civic and community efforts throughout Fort Worth. As the Director of Outreach at The King’s Church, I worked closely with families and local leaders to meet community needs and allocate resources. I was also employed by the U.S. Department of Commerce, where I collected data monthly and sent the results to Washington, DC, to help guide decisions on resource placement across Texas. Additionally, I served as a full-time Neighborhood Crime Watch volunteer with the Fort Worth Police Department, as well as with organizations like the Disaster Relief Project, Clothing Connection, veteran support groups, and New Friends New Life, which combats human trafficking. I’ve had the privilege of working with elected and appointed leaders at local, state, and federal levels. Throughout it all, I’ve remained deeply committed to uplifting and empowering the residents of Fort Worth in every role I serve.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? If yes, please explain: No.
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? If yes, please explain: No.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?: My top three contributors are precinct chairs, my family, and the dedicated residents of District 4. Their support means everything to me and reflects the strong foundation of my campaign.
Why do you want this job?: As a longtime resident of District 4, I have witnessed both its challenges and growth. I am passionate about serving my community as a leader who will lead with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to always putting residents first. This is more than a campaign; it’s about the future of my home, my family, and everyone who calls District 4 home. I will use my leadership and experience to ensure our community thrives, remains safe, and continues to grow with opportunity for all.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?: If elected, my top three policy priorities will be public safety, low taxes for families and local businesses, and transportation and infrastructure. Ensuring the safety of our communities is a fundamental priority, and I will work to strengthen our police and fire departments while fostering trust through community policing. I will advocate for policies that keep taxes low for hardworking families and support local businesses, enabling them to thrive and grow. Regarding transportation and infrastructure, I believe our system should be efficient, with a focus on maintaining and improving existing roads and public transit before embarking on new, costly projects. I will prioritize projects that provide real, measurable improvements while pushing for transparency in the allocation of funds to avoid wasteful spending.
What does it mean to be a successful council member?: A good council member listens with intention, leads with patience, speaks with honesty, and acts with respect and integrity. Accountability is key—but above all, a great leader serves with integrity and always puts the residents first.
What are the biggest challenges facing District 4?: My district faces rising homelessness, panhandling, neighborhood crime, failing roads, and affordable housing. I will support solutions that help those in need while enforcing laws to keep our streets safe. Strengthening law enforcement, fixing infrastructure, and promoting smart development for affordable housing are significant. I want my residents to trust me, knowing I will work for them, listen to their concerns, and put our district’s best interests first.
What are the biggest opportunities facing District 4?: District 4 has great opportunities ahead—from major infrastructure upgrades and park improvements to expanded roadways that boost safety and mobility. Economic growth, community planning, and open space preservation offer a strong foundation for a vibrant future. With increased focus on addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable residents, we have a real chance to build a more connected, compassionate, and thriving community here in Tarrant County, District 4.
What are the district’s biggest needs heading into the 2026 Bond, and how will you make sure they get addressed?: The residents of District 4 will be the deciding factor for moving forward, and their voices must guide the priorities for the 2026 Bond. One of our biggest needs is a dedicated recreational facility that serves both youth and seniors—providing safe, engaging spaces for after-school programs, wellness activities, and community connection. Expanding after-school recreational programs through partnerships with Fort Worth Parks and Recreation and Community Action Partners will further strengthen our neighborhoods. I believe this need is significant enough to be taken to the ballot, allowing voters to decide its importance and ensuring the project reflects the will of the community. I will advocate strongly for its inclusion and work to keep residents informed and involved every step of the way.
What role (if any) should the city play in addressing literacy struggles in the Fort Worth school district?: The city has an important role to play in addressing literacy struggles in the Fort Worth school district. While education is primarily the responsibility of the school district, the city can support by creating strong partnerships with local schools, libraries, and community organizations to enhance literacy programs. I would advocate for expanding access to after-school and summer literacy initiatives, particularly for students who are at risk of falling behind. Additionally, supporting adult education programs and offering resources for parents to engage in their children’s learning can make a significant difference. By working together with educators, nonprofits, and local businesses, we can ensure that every child in Fort Worth has the tools and support they need to succeed academically.
What concrete steps will you take to address affordable housing in Fort Worth?: To address affordable housing in Fort Worth, I will take concrete steps to ensure families, seniors, and working individuals have access to safe and attainable homes. First, I will support responsible development that includes affordable housing units, especially in areas with access to transit, jobs, and schools. I’ll work closely with city planners, housing developers, and nonprofits to incentivize mixed-income housing and reduce barriers for first-time homebuyers. I will also advocate for the expansion of programs through the Fort Worth Housing Finance Corporation and Community Development Block Grants to preserve and create affordable options. Most importantly, I will keep the community engaged and informed, ensuring that residents have a voice in housing decisions that directly impact their neighborhoods.
What are the most important qualities for the person who replaces outgoing Police Chief Neil Noakes?: I am thankful for Chief Neil Noakes and his dedicated service to the City of Fort Worth. As we look to the future, the next Police Chief should be someone who leads with integrity, accountability, and a deep respect for both the department and the community. They must be an effective communicator, committed to community engagement, adaptable to change, and focused on officer development and public trust. Above all, they should uphold a culture of fairness, transparency, and collaboration, always putting the safety and well-being of our residents first.
What else would you like to share with District 4 residents about your vision for the city that we haven’t asked?: What I want District 4 residents to know is that my vision for Fort Worth is rooted in service, integrity, transparency, and community. I believe in a city where every voice is heard, every neighborhood is valued, and every resident—regardless of age, income, or background—has the opportunity to thrive. I envision safer streets, stronger schools, better infrastructure, and more support for small businesses and working families. But most of all, I see a Fort Worth where leadership is accessible, transparent, and responsive. I’m not running for a title—I’m running to be your advocate, your listener, and your partner in building a stronger, more united District 4.
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