Gregorio De La Paz is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who works in construction management. He is a single father to five daughters and a proud grandfather of four. He ran unsuccessfully in District 4 in 2023.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
Gregorio De La Paz understands hard work, sacrifice, and service. Born and raised in San Antonio, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps to build a better future, developing leadership skills that shaped his life. After his service, he returned home, dedicating himself to family and community. A single father of five and proud grandfather, Gregorio knows the challenges families face.
His life experiences fuel his commitment to strong communities, quality education, and economic opportunity. For 35 years, I have worked at the same company, rising through the ranks and mentoring others. His integrity and dedication have made him a trusted leader, helping countless people achieve success.
List any previous experience in government or participation on local boards, commissions, or neighborhood associations. Please tell us if you have run for elected office before.
Other than my time in the United States Marine Corps, I have no direct experience in local government. However, being a councilman is a lot like managing a business—both require strong leadership, accountability, and a clear vision for the future. Whether you’re managing a budget or leading a team, success comes from using resources wisely, making tough decisions, and always keeping the people you serve in mind.
In business, that means customers; in government, it means your residents. Both roles demand clear communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to listen and respond to the needs of others. Just as a business owner builds trust with customers and employees, a councilman builds trust with constituents and city
staff. At the core of both is service—delivering results, acting with integrity, and working every day to improve the lives of those who count on you.
Yes, [I ran for council] two years ago.
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 4 and how would you work to address them in your first 100 days?
Public safety is my top priority. Crime in San Antonio has increased by 6%, and residents deserve to feel safe. I will work closely with city leadership and law enforcement to strengthen community policing and ensure our officers have the tools and training they need to protect our families.
Next is infrastructure. District 4 has seen no major improvements in over 14 years—our roads, sidewalks, and drainage systems are long overdue for attention. In my first 100 days, I will push for an infrastructure audit and advocate for immediate repairs and long-term investment in our district.
Homelessness is another growing concern. Over the past six years, the issue has worsened, affecting both individuals in crisis and the community. I will work to expand access to support services and push for smart solutions to reduce homelessness.
These challenges are serious, but with strong leadership, collaboration, and accountability, I believe we can make real progress for District 4.
In a crowded field of council candidates, what differentiates you from the others?
I’m not a politician—I’m a single father of five daughters, a hard-working member of this community, and someone who understands the real challenges our families face every day. I use common sense, not political jargon, to solve problems. I live and breathe District 4. I’ve walked its streets, raised my family here, and built my life here.
What sets me apart is that I’m not in this for politics—I’m in it for the people. I bring real-world experience, not just talking points. I know what it means to work hard, to lead with integrity, and to make tough decisions that put family and community first. While others may talk about change, I’ve lived the need for it—and I’m ready to act on day one.
If elected, how do you plan to solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
I believe in an open-door policy—residents should always feel heard and respected. Between myself and my staff, we will be fully available and capable of communicating with the public, whether it’s by phone, email, or in person. But I won’t just wait for people to come to me — I plan to go out into the community regularly and engage residents one-on-one. Listening to the concerns of our neighbors firsthand is the best way to truly understand what matters most. I’ll host community meetings, attend local events, and make sure District 4 knows their councilman is accessible, responsive, and here to serve.
Read more about Gregorio De La Paz
District 4 race pits experienced staffer against those who say Southwest Side is being left behind
