Bear Heiser for Kyle City Council District 1 At Large

Bear Heiser

ENDORSEMENT ALERT - KBAD Membership voted overwhelmingly to endorse Bear Heiser in the 2025 Election. 

How can voters contact you?

Campaign Email - bearheiser@gmail.com   
Campaign Website - bearforkyle.com
Facebook/Social Media - facebook.com/bearheiser

 

1. In a few sentences, tell us about your background, focusing on your education, professional experience, and leadership roles that prepared you for this position?
I’ve been fortunate to gain valuable experience serving our community, and along the way I’ve learned how to navigate the challenges that come with our city’s rapid growth. I try to bring patience, collaboration, and clear communication to every decision, always looking for solutions that make life better for our residents. At the heart of it all, I lead with a community-first, family-focused mindset, because for me, it’s not just about policies, it’s about people.

 

Instructions: For the next questions, please limit your responses to 100 words each.

2. Many residents are dissatisfied with road conditions, traffic congestion, and limited sidewalks in Kyle. What specific steps would you take to improve mobility without overburdening taxpayers?
In 2022, Kyle voters approved a $294 million road bond to address seven vital projects that will shape both our immediate and long-term transportation future. These projects are designed to ease congestion, improve safety, and create stronger connections across our growing city. While the bond passed, our work is far from over as there still are important votes to take and decisions to make to ensure these projects move forward. Over the next few years, it will be critical that we see them through, because delivering on these promises means providing the connectivity and quality of life our residents deserve.

 

3. Many in our city are fearful of the warrantless and extrajudicial removal of Latino members of our community by federal authorities. Where do you stand on the federal government’s deportation agenda?
The federal government’s deportation agenda is a gross overreach that is both inhumane and dangerous to our community. The federal government has no business coming into our cities and attempting to direct or control our local police departments. Talks of deputizing local or county law enforcement to carry out federal immigration enforcement undermine trust, public safety, and community relationships. Our focus in Kyle must remain on keeping residents safe, building trust, and ensuring that all members of our community feel secure, not living in fear of federal intrusion.

 

4. The cost of water utilities in Kyle are going up and residents are concerned about the long term sustainability of our water. How can the city ensure that we have a secure water supply for the long term future of Kyle?
We can’t afford to be reactive. We have to stay proactive in managing our water plan. That means constantly exploring new ideas and seeking out innovative solutions that will help us prepare for the future rather than just responding to challenges as they arise. It also means maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with partners, other jurisdictions, and regional experts, because water doesn’t stop at city boundaries. Water is the lifeblood of our community, and the way we manage it will directly impact Kyle’s future growth, sustainability, and quality of life. Getting it right is absolutely essential for our residents.

 

5. Kyle has seen rapid commercial growth, often dominated by fast food and corporate chain stores. What policies or incentives would you propose to attract and support local businesses, small retailers, and locally owned restaurants, while maintaining the city’s unique character?
Kyle’s rapid growth means we need both nationally recognized brands that diversify our revenue and strong support for local businesses that define our character. That’s why I created the Small Business Launchpad initiative, which helps entrepreneurs cut through red tape - paperwork, permits, taxes, and funding connections - so they can focus on what they do best. I also recognize the high cost of commercial space during a growth boom can make it tough for small businesses to start. I’ll continue working to connect them with resources and opportunities so they can thrive alongside larger brands and keep Kyle uniquely ours.

 

6. Compensation for Kyle’s mayor and council members has been a regular topic of conversation in Kyle. Should compensation be lower, stay the same, or be higher?
Compensation for Kyle’s mayor and council members should be viewed as an investment in good governance. The work requires time, preparation, and a deep understanding of complex issues that directly impact our community’s future. Fair pay allows council members to devote the attention these responsibilities deserve, rather than balancing the role against multiple jobs. Undercompensating local leaders narrows the pool of who can serve, which limits perspective and weakens decision-making. No one enters public service to get wealthy, but ensuring fair compensation helps build stronger, more thoughtful leadership for the city of Kyle.

 

7. Kyle has plans for parks, art installations, downtown developments, a sportsplex, and more. What possible City projects are you most (or least) looking forward to?

What excites me most are the projects that directly enhance quality of life, especially our parks and the sportsplex. These spaces give families and kids more to do, whether it’s outdoor recreation, organized activities, or simply a place to gather. When people have opportunities to connect, it builds stronger relationships, healthier lifestyles, and a deeper sense of pride in our community. Investments like these aren’t just about amenities, they’re about creating a happier, more connected Kyle where residents feel supported and engaged in daily life.