Q&A: Meet the Candidates Running for Richardson Mayor

With the May 3 election approaching, get to know the individuals vying for the position of Richardson mayor.

Candidates were asked to keep their responses concise (under 50 words), address the provided questions, and refrain from attacking opponents. Responses have been edited for clarity, length, and adherence to these guidelines.

Alan C. North

Background: Lifelong Richardson resident, business owner, and leader of the 2012 direct-election referendum.
Current Role: CEO, Ketomed Nutraceuticals, LLC
Website: richardsonmayor.com
Contact: 310-871-3821

Why are you running?

I successfully led the effort to give voters the right to elect their mayor directly, breaking the stronghold of political insiders. However, that change led to unintended consequences—the election of a mayor who was later convicted of bribery. Now, my focus is on reforming city governance and restoring ethical leadership.

What are Richardson’s biggest challenges?

Government Ethics: The city council remains influenced by special interests, resisting transparency.
Public Safety: Crime rates are on the rise, and illegal ticket quotas misallocate police resources.
Financial Responsibility: Taxes and water rates keep increasing, yet residents don’t see meaningful improvements.

How would you tackle these challenges?

I propose CURE—Clean Up Richardson’s Ethics, which includes eliminating backroom deals, stopping illegal ticket quotas, making council meetings more accessible to the public, launching a financial transparency portal, and forming a resident-led oversight committee.

What will be your main priorities if elected?

My focus will be on rebuilding trust in local government through transparency and accountability, ensuring tax dollars are spent wisely, and fostering a collaborative vision that includes both residents and business owners in long-term city planning.

Amir Omar

Background: Holds an Executive MBA from UTD, has held leadership roles in technology, served two terms on the Richardson City Council, and has experience as an HOA President.
Current Role: Senior VP of Strategic Services at HydroPoint Data Systems
Website: amiromar.com
Contact: (214) 649-8335

Why are you running?

I am dedicated to serving Richardson and building upon its successes. My vision includes fostering economic growth, strengthening education, and enhancing the overall quality of life. My campaign is rooted in a community-first mindset that prioritizes the voices and needs of our residents.

What are the key issues facing Richardson?

Sustainable Development: Ensuring smart and strategic growth.
Infrastructure Upgrades: Enhancing roads, utilities, and city services.
Public Safety: Strengthening law enforcement and emergency response efforts.
Economic Resilience: Maintaining a strong commercial tax base to support city progress.

How do you plan to address these issues?

By collaborating with residents, businesses, and educational institutions, I aim to implement smart city initiatives, promote sustainable development, and generate new job opportunities. Prioritizing infrastructure and economic expansion will be key to ensuring Richardson’s long-term success.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

I will focus on driving economic growth, improving city services and public safety, and fostering greater government transparency. My goal is to keep Richardson a thriving place for families and businesses alike.

Bob Dubey (Incumbent)

Background: Former educator, coach, and athletic director with eight years on the city council. Currently serving as Richardson’s mayor.
Current Role: Retired public school educator with 40 years of experience; part-time sales professional and mayor of Richardson.
Website: bobdubey.com
Contact: 972-744-4203

Why are you running?

Richardson is my home, and I am passionate about continuing to serve its residents. Our city council is strong, and I want to keep leading a team dedicated to making Richardson an outstanding place to live. There is still important work to be done, and I’m eager to see it through.

What are the biggest challenges Richardson faces?

Public Safety & Workforce: Retaining and properly compensating police officers, firefighters, and essential city staff.
Aging Infrastructure: Addressing road maintenance, utilities, and public service improvements.
Community Relations: Strengthening ties with schools, faith-based organizations, and businesses.
Economic Development: Attracting innovative companies that align with Richardson’s tech-focused vision.

How do you plan to address these challenges?

In 2024, we secured $225 million in new investments and development projects. Through budget planning and direct engagement, we have fully staffed our police and fire departments. Additionally, we have created over 4,000 new jobs, boosting our schools, economy, and local businesses.

What will be your primary goals if re-elected?

My commitment is to listen to residents, address concerns, and continue making informed, transparent decisions. Our city council will remain dedicated to keeping Richardson a forward-thinking, safe, and thriving community.