With Election Day approaching on May 3, Frisco residents will soon decide who will represent them in City Council Place 4. Early voting runs from April 22 to April 29, and the deadline for voter registration is April 3.
Five candidates are vying for the seat, each bringing unique perspectives and priorities for Frisco’s future. Their responses to key issues highlight their visions for the city’s growth, infrastructure, and economic development.
1. Josh Meek: A Commitment to Public Safety and Infrastructure
A longtime community volunteer, Josh Meek has attended 133 Frisco City Council meetings and served on the Frisco Community Development Corporation and Visit Frisco boards. As a realtor and local business owner, Meek is running to maintain Frisco’s world-class reputation.
“Our biggest challenge is the approaching term limits of long-tenured council members. We need someone who understands the complex mechanics of our city,” Meek said. His priorities include ensuring public safety, maintaining a low tax rate, alleviating traffic congestion, and expanding sales tax revenue.
2. Jared Elad: Fiscal Responsibility and Public Safety
Financial advisor and small business owner Jared Elad is focused on balancing Frisco’s rapid growth with responsible budgeting.
“As a fast-growing community, our police and fire departments struggle to keep pace while the city funds multimillion-dollar projects,” Elad noted. He aims to audit the city’s budget to eliminate wasteful spending, reallocate funds to first responders, and maintain strong city infrastructure. His priorities center on fiscal responsibility, public safety, and community-friendly development.
3. Jerry Spencer: Shifting Focus to Technology and Sustainable Growth
An investor and former urban planner, Jerry Spencer believes Frisco has overemphasized sports and tourism.
“The city’s marketing as a ‘destination’ needs to be cut back. We should refocus on AI, robotics, drone technology, and autonomous driving,” Spencer explained. His platform advocates for a diversified economy, traffic reduction through microtransit initiatives, and housing solutions aligned with the American Planning Association’s “missing middle” approach.
4. Gopal Ponangi: Smart Growth and Infrastructure Investment
With experience as a Frisco ISD Board Trustee and a former director on the Frisco Economic Development Corporation, Ponangi is dedicated to preserving Frisco’s quality of life.
“The challenge is balancing rapid commercial growth while maintaining Frisco’s character,” Ponangi stated. He proposes smart growth policies, increased funding for first responders, sustainability initiatives, and expanded infrastructure to manage traffic and green space.
5. Sangita Datta: Leveraging AI and Economic Development
A financial specialist recognized by Forbes, Sangita Datta is advocating for technology-driven solutions and economic growth.
“I will leverage AI to optimize city planning, reduce traffic, and enhance public safety while attracting investors to Frisco,” Datta shared. Her priorities include creating jobs through an AI hub, supporting small businesses, and expanding recreational spaces for residents.
What’s Next for Frisco?
As Frisco continues its rapid expansion, voters must decide which candidate aligns best with their vision for the city’s future. With priorities ranging from fiscal responsibility to public safety and technology-driven innovation, this election will shape Frisco’s trajectory for years to come.
For more election coverage, visit www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Be sure to mark your calendars and make your voice heard at the polls on May 3.
Credits: Community Impact
