Local elections shape the Galveston we live in—our neighborhoods, our economy, and our quality of life. From the condition of our streets to the strength of our business climate, decisions made at City Hall touch us every day.

This year’s municipal election is especially important. For the first time in several years, every seat on Galveston City Council, including mayor, is on the ballot. These roles carry significant responsibility for our island city, and the leaders elected will help guide Galveston’s economic future and opportunities for years to come.

As part of our mission to promote and advocate for business and community development, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting informed civic engagement. One of the most meaningful ways to do that is by helping voters hear directly from those who want to serve.

That’s why the Galveston Chamber, in partnership with the League of Women Voters, LULAC Council 151, Pachyderm Club of Galveston Island (GIPC), and i45NOW, is hosting two City Council candidate forums, leading into a mayoral debate luncheon. These events give voters the opportunity to listen, learn, and make informed decisions before heading to the ballot box.

A pro‑business, pro‑growth mayor and City Council help ensure Galveston continues to attract investment, support small businesses, strengthen our port and tourism economy, and create opportunities for future entrepreneurs and workers. Our forums allow residents and business leaders to better understand each candidate’s vision for a strong, competitive, and prosperous Galveston.

In advance of these events, the Chamber’s Board of Directors develops thoughtful, nonpartisan questions focused on issues that matter most to our community—especially those impacting local business and economic vitality. The best way to vote with confidence is to hear directly from the candidates, and that’s exactly what these forums provide.

The following candidates are running for office:
Mayor: William Boike, John Paul Listowski, Marie Robb

District 1: Sharon Lewis, Gerald Wilson, Tarris L. Woods
District 2: Luke Bohlman, Jeffrey L. Taylor
District 3: Raymond Arce, Bob Brown
District 4: Floyd William Holder IV, Alex Porretto
District 5: Michael Niebuhr, Beau Rawlins, Charlie Worthen
District 6: George R. Guajardo, Jason Hardcastle, Scott Hickman, Shane McKinney, Daryl Williams

Early voting runs April 20–28, and Election Day is Saturday, May 2.

The City Council candidate forums are free and open to the public, and the Mayoral Debate Luncheon is ticketed. Tickets and table sponsorships are available at www.GalvestonChamber.com.

We hope you’ll join us—because democracy works best close to home, and it starts with informed voters.

City Council Candidate Forum – Districts 1–3
Tuesday, April 7 | 5:30–7:00 p.m.
Elks Lodge #126, 1518 23rd Street | Free | Open to Members & Public

City Council Candidate Forum – Districts 4–6
Wednesday, April 8 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Galveston Urban Ministries, 1804 69th Street | Free | Open to Members & Public

The Debate: Galveston Mayoral Luncheon
Thursday, April 9 | 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Moody Gardens Hotel, Seven Hope Blvd. | Ticketed | Open to Members & Public