Here are the candidates for Fort Worth City Council District 3 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.
Jason Ballmann
Age: 36
Campaign website: ballmann4council.com
Best way for voters to reach you: info@ballmann4council.com
Occupation: Marketing Strategist for Texas Instruments
Education: M.M. Composition, University of Southern California (2013) B.M. Composition, Southern Methodist University (2011)
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought, with years): Marfa City Council, 2022
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the city of Fort Worth: As Precinct Chair for Precinct 1676, I work to make sure every neighbor feels seen, heard, and empowered at the ballot box. I volunteer at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and Research Institute because I believe beauty, science, and education should be accessible to everyone. Each year, I take part in the Great American Cowtown Clean-Up not just to pick up litter, but to take pride in the city we all share. I’m also a proud member of the Native Plant Society of Texas, Native Prairies Association of Texas and the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute.
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: Regarding civil law suits, I sued a former landlord in small claims court and won in the amount of $5,000. The case has been appealed by the defendant and is pending.
Like my opponent, I have also sought bankruptcy protection. However, unlike Councilmember Michael Crain, my circumstances were not the result of failed business investments but rather the financial realities of being a working individual who put themselves through college. My challenges stemmed from significant student loan debt, healthcare and housing costs, and unexpected life events burdens that many of our residents face every day.
When elected, my priority will be to make everyday life more affordable and fair for our community, something urgently needed in this time of economic and national uncertainty.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?: My top three contributors are the single mom who chipped in $10 because she wants safer streets for her kids. The retired teacher who gave what she could because she believes in public schools. And the volunteer who can’t write a check but has spent every weekend knocking on doors and talking to neighbors about this campaign’s promise of a better future for Fort Worth. This campaign isn’t powered by PACs or political favors, it’s powered by people. Working people. Everyday people. People who believe Fort Worth deserves leadership that listens, shows up, and delivers. I’m proud to say our donors and volunteers come from every walk of life, every corner of this city. No one voice is louder than the other, and no contribution is more important than the shared belief that we can do better. That’s who this campaign is for and that’s who I’ll fight for every single day.
Why do you want this job?: I’m running because I love Fort Worth, not just the skyline or the stockyards, but the spirit of the people who make this city what it is. I want this job because I believe City Hall should work for everyone, not just those with the loudest voices or the deepest pockets. I’ve spent my professional life solving problems in high-stakes environments, and I’m ready to bring that experience home. Fort Worth is growing fast, but growth without vision leaves too many behind. We need leadership that’s not afraid to ask tough questions, challenge the status quo, and fight like hell for working families. I want to help build a city where every neighborhood gets its fair share, where public safety means both protection and prevention, and where opportunity reaches every zip code. This isn’t about a title, it’s about service. For me, this job is about rolling up my sleeves and doing the work to make Fort Worth a city we’re proud to pass on to the next generation.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?: If elected, my top priorities will be livable wages, equity-first infrastructure, and public safety. We must stop subsidizing poverty-level jobs. Any business seeking public support (tax breaks, zoning changes, etc.) should be required to pay livable wages and provide strong benefits. If you’re profiting off Fort Worth, you should be investing in its people. I’ll fight to implement Community Benefit Agreements that tie city support to fair pay, safe conditions, and local hiring.
Second, we need infrastructure that works for everyone. I’ll prioritize fixing what’s broken plus push for ADA-compliant sidewalks, safer crosswalks, and safe transit stops. Fort Worth deserves an equity-first plan that delivers for every neighborhood, especially those long overlooked.
And third, public safety. With over a decade in emergency preparedness, I’ll fight to end 911 wait times, equip first responders, and push for common-sense gun safety that protects our communities.
What does it mean to be a successful council member?: Being a successful council member means delivering results that aren’t just measured in reports, but in real lives changed. Safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, and city services that actually serve. It’s not about the ribbon-cuttings or the headlines. It’s about showing up every day with humility, purpose, and a commitment to doing the work. Accessibility isn’t a buzzword; it means being present before you’re needed, not just when the cameras are on. It means meeting people where they are, listening with intent, and never forgetting who I work for. Success is when a family gets home safely on a well-lit street. When a senior doesn’t have to climb over a broken sidewalk. When a kid sees a council member and knows they belong in those halls, too. That’s the job. And if I have the honor to serve, I’ll give it everything I’ve got because this city is worth it, and so are the people who call it home.
What are the biggest challenges facing District 3?: One of the biggest challenges facing District 3 is our aging, neglected infrastructure, nowhere is that clearer than on Camp Bowie. It’s one of the most heavily traveled corridors in our district, connecting residents to goods, services, and cultural landmarks. Yet it hasn’t seen meaningful investment from TxDOT in years. It’s outdated, dangerous, and long overdue for real attention. We need leadership that won’t just point fingers. We need someone who can navigate the complexities of intergovernmental relationships and get results. I’ll work aggressively with TxDOT, regional planners, and city departments to secure funding and push for a full overhaul of Camp Bowie that prioritizes safety, walkability, and smart growth. District 3 deserves infrastructure that matches its potential
What are the biggest opportunities facing District 3?: District 3 is full of opportunity. First, we can dramatically improve traffic safety along key corridors like Hulen, Bryant Irvin, and Camp Bowie. These roads see heavy use and frequent accidents, and I’ll push for safer intersections, improved lighting, and traffic-calming measures to better protect drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Second, we have a chance to attract high-quality, Texas-minded businesses, like H-E-B, that not only meet community needs but pay livable wages. I’ll work to make District 3 business-ready while insisting on strong community benefits in return. Finally, with our population spread across a large area, we must improve response times by establishing additional police and fire substations ensuring every neighborhood feels protected. With the right vision and partnerships, District 3 can lead the way in safety, smart growth, and quality of life.
What are the district’s biggest needs heading into the 2026 Bond, and how will you make sure they get addressed?: District 3’s biggest needs heading into the 2026 Bond are aging infrastructure, neglected public spaces, and unsafe streets. From Como to Wedgwood, our roads, sidewalks, and drainage systems are overdue for investment. Parks and community centers like Lake Como Park and Chisholm Trail need upgrades to better serve families, youth, and seniors. And we must address traffic safety with smarter street design, resurfacing lights and signage. As your councilmember, I’ll fight to ensure District 3 gets its fair share. I’ll hold town halls, work closely with neighborhood leaders, and push for transparency and equity in how bond dollars are allocated. We can’t keep rewarding rapid growth while long-standing neighborhoods get left behind. I’m running to change that and to make sure this bond delivers tangible improvements you can see and feel.
What should the city do to avoid the growth challenges seen in far north as development comes to the far west of the district?: As my opponent recently admitted during a livestream when asked about the rapid growth in the north, “...development was coming and we didn’t plan ahead.” That’s not just hindsight, that’s a failure of leadership. We can’t afford to make the same mistake as development accelerates in the west. In District 3, we must be proactive, not reactive. We need comprehensive land use strategies that preserve green space, match infrastructure to growth, and prevent unchecked sprawl. Smarter zoning, earlier coordination with developers, and upfront investments in roads, utilities, and public services are essential. I’ll push for a West Side Infrastructure Plan that ties new development to schools, transit, and emergency services so families aren’t waiting years for basic needs. Growth is inevitable, but gridlock, overwhelmed city services, and disconnected communities don’t have to be. With foresight, we can grow smarter and better.
What role (if any) should the city play in addressing literacy struggles in the Fort Worth school district?: In Fort Worth ISD’s new strategic plan, the goal is 50% of third graders reading proficiently by 2029. Let me ask, where’s the plan for 100%? We shouldn’t accept mediocrity when our kids deserve excellence. Literacy is foundational and while the city doesn’t run schools, we absolutely have a role to play. We can expand after-school and summer programs through our public libraries, turning them into literacy hubs. We can invest in early childhood education partnerships and make sure every neighborhood has access to learning beyond the classroom. And as council members, we must use our platform to advocate at the state and federal level by opposing private school vouchers that defund public education and pushing for the resources our students and teachers need to succeed. A literate child becomes an empowered adult. If we’re serious about Fort Worth’s future, we have to start by fighting for our kids today.
What concrete steps will you take to address affordable housing in Fort Worth?: Our housing crisis isn’t just about affordability, it’s about priorities. For too long, policies have catered to wealthy developers, corporate landlords, and speculators, while working families, low-income residents, and seniors are left behind. That must change. Housing is a human right, and we need to ensure that all people have access to safe, stable, and affordable homes. We must reform zoning to allow more housing diversity, including Accessory Dwelling Units like garage apartments and backyard cottages, while still protecting the character of single-family neighborhoods. I support inclusionary zoning policies that require new developments to include permanent affordable units, and I’ll fight to strengthen tenant protections by holding landlords accountable, expanding renter legal aid, and improving city codes. Let’s explore and expand tools like land banks and community land trusts to create housing that stays affordable. Fort Worth’s future must be built for people, not profit.
What are the most important qualities for the person who replaces outgoing Police Chief Neil Noakes?: Fort Worth has an opportunity this summer to choose a police chief who embodies both compassion and accountability. As the son of a retired police officer, I was raised to believe that good policing is about more than enforcement; it’s about building trust, understanding people, and de-escalating situations with empathy and professionalism. When elected, I will advocate for a chief who is committed to transparency, accountability, and ongoing training in areas like mental health response, cultural competency, and de-escalation tactics. Let’s find a leader who actively builds relationships with the communities they serve, especially communities that have historically been over-policed or under-protected. Fort Worth deserves a leader who sees data as opportunity. Tracking use-of-force, complaints, and response times to drive real accountability and improve performance and public trust. This role demands someone with an open mind and a collaborative spirit.
What else would you like to share with District 3 residents about your vision for the city that we haven’t asked?: We don’t have to settle. Not for crumbling roads, underfunded schools, unchecked development or leaders who wait for problems before they act. We can build a city that works for everyone. One where kids have clean parks and strong schools, where small businesses thrive, and where public safety means both protection and prevention. Fort Worth must move away from costly vanity projects and toward smart, community-centered investments. The new City Hall is a prime example of misaligned priorities. Rather than using it to attract employers and revitalize downtown, it’s filled with government offices that displaced potential growth. And we can’t talk about the future without addressing the air we breathe. Our gas well ordinance hasn’t been updated since 2009. That’s unacceptable. I’ll fight for stronger protections, updated policies, and accountability for polluters.My vision is a Fort Worth that leads with heart, plans with purpose, governs with courage and protects all people.
Michael Crain
Age: 52
Campaign website: www.michaeldcrain.com
Best way for voters to reach you: Michael@michaeldcrain.com or 817-677-8258
Occupation: Real Estate Broker
Education: BA, Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School; JD, Texas A&M University School of Law; MBA, Rutgers Business School; Certificate in Executive Leadership, TCU’s Neeley School of Business; Executive Certificate in Public Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought, with years): Fort Worth City Council, Elected 2021, Re-elected 2023
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in the city of Fort Worth: Over the years, I’ve been deeply involved in civic efforts that reflect my passion for Fort Worth and its residents. As a City Councilmember, I serve on various boards and committees to address community needs and foster collaboration. Beyond my official duties, I actively participate in organizations like LVT Rise, the Texas Lyceum, the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Fort Worth Rotary. My wife Joanna and I founded Foodie Philanthropy, an annual fundraising event benefiting local charities. Recognitions such as being named one of Fort Worth’s Top 500 Most Influential People and receiving awards like Entrepreneur of Excellence and Community Advocate of the Year highlight my commitment to serving our city. My goal remains to champion initiatives that enhance quality of life while preserving Fort Worth’s rich heritage and preparing for its future.
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: As a small business owner, I’ve experienced both productive times and financial difficulties. My wife and I invested in a franchise that ultimately provided poor, unrealistic financial outcomes. We were required to sign multi-year personal guarantees for rent, machinery, and services. Challenges with management, staffing, food costs, and the service market forced us to file bankruptcy to sever contract liabilities. Despite this, all taxes, employees, and vendors were paid. This devastating experience caused us to lose virtually everything, but we are slowly rebuilding financially and mentally. It has given us greater empathy for those who struggle and deeper understanding of entrepreneurs who work tirelessly to succeed. While some businesses thrive and should be celebrated, many fail—and that’s okay. Failure teaches resilience and helps people find new passions. For me, that passion is serving Fort Worth residents and working to move our city forward with compassion and determination.
Who are your top three campaign contributors?: All contributors are listed on my campaign finance reports which can be found on the city’s website.
Why do you want this job?: I seek re-election because I am passionate about serving Fort Worth and continuing the progress we’ve made together. As District 3 Councilman, I have focused on enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure and fostering economic growth. I believe in fostering a collaborative Fort Worth where everyone has opportunities to thrive. My experience in both public and private sectors helps me understand how government can support businesses and communities. I am committed to managing growth responsibly while preserving our city’s unique character. I will continue listening to residents and working collaboratively to build a vibrant future for Fort Worth.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?: Public Safety: Enhancing resources for law enforcement and emergency services to ensure safe communities while fostering trust and collaboration between residents and public safety officials.
Economic Growth: Promoting policies that attract businesses, support local entrepreneurship, and ensure access to opportunities for all residents, contributing to a thriving and sustainable Fort Worth economy.
Fiscal Responsibility: Supporting budgeting practices that prioritize essential services, reduce waste, and protect taxpayer dollars while investing in community needs.
What does it mean to be a successful council member?: To be a successful council member, I believe it requires listening to the community, understanding their needs, and championing their ideas. It means collaborating with colleagues and city staff to find win-win solutions that move Fort Worth forward. Success is measured by responsiveness to residents, delivering efficient and essential city services, and maintaining fiscal responsibility. A good council member builds trust, fosters open communication, and ensures every decision reflects the best interests of the community while respecting diverse perspectives.
What are the biggest challenges facing District 3?: Managing Growth and Infrastructure: As Fort Worth continues to grow rapidly, ensuring that roads, utilities, and public spaces keep pace with development is a key challenge. Balancing new projects with maintaining existing infrastructure is critical.
Public Safety: Providing adequate resources for police, fire, and emergency services to ensure safe neighborhoods remains a top priority as the district grows.
Efficient City Services: Responding to resident needs with timely and effective city services, such as waste management, road maintenance, and water utilities, is essential to maintaining quality of life.
Economic Development: Supporting local businesses, attracting investment, and creating opportunities while preserving the character of District 3 is an ongoing challenge.
Community Engagement: Ensuring residents feel heard and involved in decision-making processes is vital for addressing concerns and building trust.
What are the biggest opportunities facing District 3?: Economic Development: Leveraging Fort Worth’s pro-business environment and incentives to attract new businesses, expand local entrepreneurship, and create high-wage jobs.
Strategic Growth: Managing the district’s rapid growth with thoughtful planning to enhance infrastructure, improve transportation, and ensure sustainable development.
Community Revitalization: Investing in public spaces, arts initiatives, and neighborhood improvements to boost community pride and economic activity.
Talent Retention: Capitalizing on Fort Worth’s growing reputation as a talent magnet by supporting workforce development and education programs.
Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborating with private entities to fund projects that address district needs while reducing the burden on taxpayers.
What are the district’s biggest needs heading into the 2026 Bond, and how will you make sure they get addressed?: Infrastructure and Streets: As growth continues, prioritizing road construction, congestion mitigation, and mobility improvements is essential to support development and ensure safe, efficient transportation.
Public Safety: Expanding fire stations, upgrading emergency response facilities, and enhancing resources for first responders to keep pace with population growth and maintain safety across the district.
Future Planning: Thinking ahead to address long-term needs by leveraging bond funding for sustainable projects that support economic growth and quality of life.
To ensure these needs are addressed, I will actively engage with residents through public meetings, collaborate with city staff and council colleagues, and advocate for District 3 priorities in the bond allocation process. By focusing on community input and efficient solutions, we can deliver impactful results that prepare our district for the future.
What should the city do to avoid the growth challenges seen in far north as development comes to the far west of the district?: Proactive Land Use Planning: Ensuring that development aligns with comprehensive plans that prioritize community needs, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality.
Coordinated Development and Infrastructure: Implementing infrastructure improvements in coordination with new development to prevent congestion and ensure that roads, utilities, and public services keep pace with growth.
Public Safety Enhancements: Expanding public safety resources and facilities to maintain safety standards as the population grows.
Community Engagement: Engaging residents in the planning process to ensure that development reflects community values and priorities.
By integrating these strategies, the city can foster sustainable growth that benefits both residents and the broader community.
What role (if any) should the city play in addressing literacy struggles in the Fort Worth school district?:
The city has an important role in addressing literacy struggles in Fort Worth ISD by fostering collaboration and supporting initiatives that benefit students. Alongside Mayor Mattie Parker, I have advocated for prioritizing literacy as a community-wide effort. The city can help by:
Facilitating Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations between the school district, nonprofits, and community organizations to implement proven literacy programs and interventions.
Promoting Parental Engagement: Raising awareness among parents about their children’s reading progress and connecting them with resources to support literacy at home.
Leveraging City Resources: Expanding library programs, such as early literacy initiatives and reading challenges, to complement district efforts.
By working together, we can ensure that every child in Fort Worth has the opportunity to succeed academically and break cycles of poverty through improved literacy skills.
What concrete steps will you take to address affordable housing in Fort Worth?:
Implementing the Fort Worth Neighborhood Conservation Plan and Housing Affordability Strategy to address neighborhood conditions and the housing crisis.
Expanding mixed-income housing developments, with Fort Worth Housing Solutions already operating 52 properties offering affordable units.
Encouraging public-private partnerships to develop affordable housing and guiding neighborhoods through zoning as the only active real estate broker on the Council.
Supporting programs like the Neighborhood Improvement Program, which has invested $22M in areas like Las Vegas Trail and Como.
Streamlining development processes to expand the tax base and ease the burden on homeowners.
Advocating for increased homestead exemptions and lower property taxes to provide relief.
I will continue championing initiatives that create affordable housing and vibrant neighborhoods for all residents.
What are the most important qualities for the person who replaces outgoing Police Chief Neil Noakes?: The next Police Chief of Fort Worth must be an experienced law enforcement professional who embodies integrity, accountability, and a commitment to public service. They should have a proven track record in modern policing strategies, such as community-oriented policing, and the ability to build trust across our diverse neighborhoods. Strong leadership and emotional intelligence are essential to balance enforcement with meaningful community engagement. Fort Worth needs a Chief who understands the complexities of law enforcement and is dedicated to fostering safety, transparency, and trust citywide.
What else would you like to share with District 3 residents about your vision for the city that we haven’t asked?: One aspect of my vision for District 3 and Fort Worth that I’d like to share is my belief in the importance of creating a city where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Guided by the principle of “Honoring the Past. Looking to the Future. Living in the Present,” I am committed to preserving Fort Worth’s rich heritage while planning for a thriving future. This means celebrating what makes our city unique, such as its history and culture, while fostering innovation and growth to meet future challenges.
At the same time, we must focus on improving quality of life for all residents today by providing efficient city services, supporting public safety, and investing in infrastructure and amenities that benefit our communities. By working together, listening to residents, and championing their ideas, we can build a Fort Worth that is welcoming, vibrant, and prepared for generations to come.
This story was originally published April 20, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
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