Sakib Shaikh is a realtor, landlord and small business owner who briefly worked in the District 8 council office in 2017.
Hear from the candidate
Please tell voters about yourself.
I have lived in San Antonio for about 25 years. My parents, both immigrants from Pakistan, moved to the U.S. over 40 years ago. I’m married to a physics teacher, and together we have three wonderful daughters.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in International Studies from UTSA and earned a Master of Arts in International Economics from St. Mary’s University. Through a study abroad program with the University of Virginia, I gained international experience in business across multiple countries, including China, Japan, Mexico, and Spain.
Professionally, I’ve worked as an IT consultant for Fortune 500 companies, served as the Director of Constituent Services for District 8 in 2017, and currently own businesses in real estate and convenience stores. I’m dedicated to fostering community growth and creating opportunities for local families.
List any previous experience in government or participation on local boards, commissions, or neighborhood associations.
This is my first time running for elected office. In 2017, I had the privilege of serving as the Director of Constituent Services for District 8, where I worked closely with neighborhoods on issues such as public safety, infrastructure, and effective communication with city hall. This role gave me a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of our community.
I also served on the board of the Muslim Children Education and Civic Center from 2015-2022, helping to support educational initiatives and community development. Additionally, I was appointed by Mayor Nirenberg to the Office of Urban Redevelopment, where I contributed to the city’s growth and revitalization efforts. In 2022, I served as an advisor to Culturingua, furthering my commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement.
These experiences have shaped my desire to serve and make a positive impact in our city.
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 8 and how would you work to address them in your first 100 days?
I agree with the surveys findings that homelessness, streets, housing, and animal care services are top concerns for our city. Additionally, during my block walking efforts, where I’ve personally visited over 6,000 homes since August, I’ve heard loud and clear from District 8 residents that they also seek a more transparent government. They are frustrated with a city hall that often feels controlled by political insiders, and they want a councilperson who is accessible and truly listens to their needs.
In my first 100 days, I would prioritize addressing homelessness by working with local agencies to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions, such as expanding affordable and low-barrier housing options and improving access to wrap-around services for those in need. I would push for more proactive infrastructure improvements in our streets, ensuring smoother commutes and safer neighborhoods. Animal care services also require more attention, and I would advocate for increased resources to support our local shelters and improve animal welfare.
By promoting transparency and ensuring that District 8 residents have a direct line of communication to their councilperson, I am committed to making sure their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed effectively.
In a crowded field of council candidates, what differentiates you from the others?
What sets me apart from other candidates is my unique blend of business experience and government service. I have a master’s degree in international economics, I’ve worked as a business analyst, and I was constituent services director for the District 8 office. That means I have hands-on experience on how to balance our needs with the limited resources available to us. This dual perspective allows me to approach issues with a comprehensive, practical mindset.
District 8 is the most diverse district in the city, and I believe that diversity is our strength. As the only Asian-American running for District 8, I understand the importance of representing all communities, ensuring every voice is heard.
I am also the only candidate who hasn’t accepted donations from developers, lobbyists, construction companies, or corporate PACs, ensuring that my priorities are driven solely by the needs of the community, not special interests. I am committed to being a truly independent voice for District 8, one that reflects the values and concerns of all residents.
If elected, how do you plan to solicit input and feedback from residents in your district?
If elected, I will ensure the highest level of engagement with District 8 residents, using both modern technology and traditional methods to solicit input and feedback. I believe in leveraging software-driven tools like community apps and online surveys to streamline communication, making it easier for residents to share their concerns and ideas. However, I understand that not everyone is comfortable with technology, so I am committed to meeting people where they are—whether that’s through in-person town halls, neighborhood meetings, or door-to-door visits.
I will also expand our online platforms where constituents can track ongoing issues and provide real-time feedback. As a business owner, I know how vital it is to stay connected with your clients and listen to their needs. In the same way, District 8 residents will always feel heard and valued through an ongoing, open dialogue with me.
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