17. San Antonio’s new Councilwoman Sukh Kaur, the first Sikh elected official in Texas, has big plans for District 1

In this episode of Big City Small Town, Bob Rivard sits down with Sukh Kaur, one month after her upset runoff victory over incumbent Mario Bravo, to talk about her priorities representing a district that includes downtown, hard hit in the pandemic, and working to redefine itself.  

Kaur, a Rice University graduate and a first-generation American hailing from India's northern state of Punjab, has dedicated her life to addressing disparities that exist in the arena of learning. With a background in civil rights, policy studies, law and justice, Kaur chose to serve her community by delving into the education system. After journeying through the Teach for America program, serving as a school leader, and eventually working with City Education Partners, Sukh is now a dedicated advocate for innovative school models and equitable educational opportunities. 

Her focus now shifts to urban governance and how she can best serve her district’s estimated 145,000 residents, many of whom are working class struggling with inflation, rising housing costs and property taxes, persistent homelessness and crime.

Kaur and Rivard discuss possible charter reform initiatives on the November 2024 ballot, including better council and mayoral pay; a reversal of term and salary limits on the city manager, and moving elections to four-year terms on the November ballot. Kaur alos addresses the widespread dissatisfaction in the business community and among residents with he much delayed street improvement projects funded by the 2017 bond.

In this episode, conversation topics include:

• Unpacking the puzzle of dwindling voter turnout in San Antonio's local elections.

• Getting a first look at the move to place city elections on the November ballot.

• Understanding how council pay plays a role in attracting qualified candidates, a fascinating balancing act.

• Reliving the transformative moments of mentorship and historic reforms within city leadership.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Follow Big City, Small Town podcast on social media for updates and new episodes.

• Visit the Big City, Small Town website to learn more about the podcast and its hosts.

• Connect with Bob Rivard on social media to stay updated on his work and future episodes.

• Learn more about District One City Councilman Sukh Kaur and her role in San Antonio.

• Stay informed about local elections and participate in the democratic process.

• Support and engage with local community organizations that address education and community needs.

• Stay updated on the progress of the infrastructure bill and its impact on San Antonio.

• Advocate for safe sidewalks, lighting, tree canopy, and green spaces in inner-city neighborhoods.

• Stay informed about the digital divide and support efforts to bridge the gap in access to technology.

• Stay updated on the allocation of funds from the infrastructure bill and how they will be deployed in San Antonio.

• Support local businesses and organizations that are working towards positive change in the community.

• Get involved in local initiatives and projects that aim to improve education and community support.

• Stay informed about the challenges and needs of diverse communities and work towards equitable solutions.

• Support and uplift the voices and experiences