Gabriel Kissinger: District 6 City Council candidate

Leading up to the May 3 election, Dallas Free Press is asking questions and publishing answers from the nine District 6 candidates, one of whom will represent West Dallas. Find more information on 30-year-old Gabriel Kissinger and other candidates, plus where and when to vote, in our Dallas Voter Guide.

Where do you live, and how long have you lived there?

I live in northwest Dallas and moved here Dec. 1, 2023.

Did you grow up in Dallas? Where did you live previously?

I grew up in Ponchatoula, Louisiana. I came to Dallas because I wanted to move to a city where I can find more work opportunities, plus I liked Texas. I moved to Plano in 2016 and lived there before moving to Dallas in 2023.

Tell us about your family.

I don’t have any children, and most of my family does not live in the Dallas area. However, I do have an identical twin brother and a dog. While my family doesn’t live here, their support and perspectives shape my understanding of community needs. As a city council member, I will focus on creating policies that benefit families, neighborhoods, and individuals in District 6, ensuring that family values and a safe, thriving community are priorities for all residents.

Have you run for office previously, whether for this seat or others?

No.

What is the main reason you are running for this seat at this time?

I’m running for Dallas City Council District 6 because I believe the current leadership has failed to address critical issues like crime, fiscal responsibility, and infrastructure. I’m committed to lowering property tax rates, improving public safety, and addressing the city’s overspending. I want to restore common-sense policies that prioritize residents’ needs and ensure District 6 becomes a safer, more prosperous community for everyone.

What is one thing that needs to change in West Dallas, and what policies will you create or activate to make that happen?

District 6 is facing a significant crime problem, which needs immediate action. I will advocate for Proposition U, which focuses on increasing police officers’ starting pay, improving pension funding, and requires the city to have at least 4,000 officers. This will help retain experienced officers and attract new talent to ensure a safer community. Additionally, I will push for a more aggressive approach to combat homelessness, including strict enforcement against panhandling and implementing treatment-first policies for drug users. By incentivizing law enforcement and cracking down on homelessness, drugs, and panhandling, we can reduce crime and improve the overall quality of life in District 6.

What is one thing that needs to stay the same in West Dallas, and what policies will you create or activate to make that happen?

One thing that needs to stay the same in West Dallas is its role as a key industrial and commercial hub, especially near the Asian Trade District. This area brings jobs, trade, and economic opportunity that benefit the entire city. I will work to preserve and expand this economic engine by improving infrastructure, enhancing public safety, and streamlining permitting for businesses. Strong infrastructure and safe streets are essential for attracting new investment and helping existing businesses thrive. By building on these strengths, we can position West Dallas for long-term growth and prosperity.

What other community and civic roles have you held in Dallas, especially in West Dallas? (We asked candidates to list up to 10 roles.)

I am on the board of my HOA at the Gables on Royal Lane.

What is the job of a Dallas city council member?

A Dallas City Council member represents the interests of their district while helping govern the entire city. Their job includes passing local laws, approving the city budget, setting tax rates, and making decisions on zoning, public safety, and infrastructure. Council members also oversee city services and work with residents to address community concerns. They have the power to propose policies, vote on ordinances, and influence how city funds are allocated. Ultimately, their role is to ensure the city operates effectively while advocating for the needs of their district and promoting a high quality of life for all Dallas residents.

How will you approach this job on a day-to-day basis?

I’ll focus daily on public safety, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. I’ll respond quickly to resident concerns, work with city staff, and ensure city services are delivered effectively. I’ll stay active in the community and fight for smarter spending and accountability at City Hall.

If you lose, would you be willing to serve as an appointee to a City board or commission? Yes or no?

Yes

If you win, would you be willing to appoint your fellow candidates to a City board or commission? Yes or no?

Yes

What distinguishes you from your fellow candidates?

What sets me apart from my fellow candidates is my unwavering commitment to cutting the budget and eliminating wasteful spending. While others may push for increased government programs, I believe in rethinking how we allocate taxpayer dollars and focusing on core services like public safety and infrastructure. I will prioritize cutting unnecessary spending, lowering property taxes, and ensuring every dollar is spent efficiently. My commitment to constituents is to always advocate for a leaner, more accountable city government that works for District 6, not against it.

Is there anything we haven’t asked that voters should know?

Voters should know that I’m focused on going back to the basics—public safety, fiscal responsibility, and infrastructure. We don’t need more pet projects or wasteful spending; we need common-sense policies that prioritize what works. Taxpayers deserve to keep more of their hard-earned money, not see it squandered by city inefficiency. I’m committed to government accountability and responsibility, cutting through the nonsense, and focusing on what truly benefits the people of District 6. It’s time for practical solutions, not political agendas. Let’s make our city safer, more efficient, and more prosperous.

Gabriel Kissinger can be reached at 214.736.4337 or gabrielfordallas@gmail.com. His campaign website is gabrielfordallas.com.