Daniel Mezza worked as a district director for former U.S. Rep. Will Hurd (R-Helotes) and as a regional director for U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas). He’s also an entrepreneur and Texas A&M graduate who founded “Puro Nitro Coffee.”
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I am originally from the small town of Hebbronville, Texas, I moved to San Antonio in 1991. I have been a resident here for 34-years and living in District 9 for the past 16 years. I earned my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University, where I was a member of the Corps of Cadets, and later obtained a master’s in public administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
My professional experience includes serving as an Executive Assistant to the Bexar County Judge, Regional Director for a U.S. Senator covering San Antonio, and District Director for a U.S. Congressman representing North San Antonio. For the past seven years, I’ve been a small business owner and entrepreneur, founding Puro Nitro Coffee, a brand now found in grocery stores across Texas.
List any previous experience in government or participation on local boards, commissions, or neighborhood associations.
My government experience includes serving as Executive Assistant to the Bexar County Judge, Regional Director for a U.S. Senator covering San Antonio, and District Director for a U.S. Congressman representing North San Antonio. I have also been actively involved in local boards and commissions, including serving on the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Texas A&M-San Antonio Foundation Board of Directors, the Main Plaza Conservancy Board of Directors, and the Bexar County SWMBE (Small, Minority, and Woman Business Enterprises) Board.
These roles have allowed me to support economic development, small businesses, and community initiatives throughout San Antonio. I have not previously run for elected office, but my experience in government, business, and community service has prepared me to be an effective advocate for District 9.
In the city’s 2024-2025 budget survey, residents ranked homelessness, streets, housing and animal care services among their top concerns for the city to address. Which issues do you consider a top concern for District 9 and how would you work to address them in your first 100 days?
Public Safety: I will prioritize hiring more patrol officers to keep up with the city’s growth and ensure our neighborhoods and businesses remain safe. Prioritize new police substation and fire station early in budget process. Create fund to subsidize HOA’s to purchase technology that would assist in community policing to better enhance law enforcement efficiency.
Infrastructure: Traffic light calibration is essential for mobility and safety. I will use IMP and CIP funds to prioritize neighborhood safety and infrastructure projects while ensuring these requests are introduced early in the budget process. Increased outreach to neighborhoods will help secure priority funding.
Homelessness: I will advocate for dismantling encampments in public spaces in District 9 while strengthening partnerships with nonprofits and city services to provide alternative resources. To maintain public order, I support stronger enforcement against panhandling, ensuring consequences for repeat offenses.
In a crowded field of council candidates, what differentiates you from the others?
I bring a unique combination of 15+ years in the public sector and 8 years in business, along with strong relationships at the local, state, and national levels. My business experience gives me a results-driven approach to city government, ensuring that we prioritize the budget efficiently and spend taxpayer dollars wisely. I understand both government and business, and I have the leadership, connections, and expertise to implement smart policies that drive economic growth, fiscal responsibility, and a thriving community.
If elected, how do you plan to solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
If elected, I will actively engage with District 9 residents to ensure their voices are heard.
I will attend all HOA meetings across the district and host quarterly town hall meetings in different locations to stay informed about community needs. Regular newsletters and social media updates on Facebook and Instagram will keep residents informed while providing a platform for feedback. Additionally, I will send out surveys to gather input on key city policies and budget priorities, ensuring decisions reflect the concerns of our community.
Read more about Daniel Mezza
District 9 candidates debate reversing course on affordable housing, equity budgeting
WATCH: San Antonio Report’s District 9 debate
