“I believe in open processes, clear communication, and involving residents early. When City Hall oversteps or takes control of things that belong to the community, whether it is a youth program or a historic landmark, trust erodes.”

City of Justin General Election
Candidate Profile

Meet Tomas Mendoza– Candidate for Mayor - City Council Place 5
Election Day: Saturday, May 2, 2026

How have your background and experience shaped your perspective for Mayor, and what inspired your involvement in Justin?

For almost 19 years, Justin has been my home. I began simply as a neighbor who cared, then stepped forward to serve on City Council. During that time, I learned that leadership in a small city is not about titles. It is about showing up, communicating clearly, and working with people to solve problems.

My background in discipline, planning, management, and technical problem solving has shaped how I approach challenges. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Finance, and I’ve worked professionally as a Project Manager leading complex initiatives, coordinating teams, and building systems that make processes clearer and more efficient. I also hold three black belts in different martial arts, which taught me focus, patience, and steady leadership.

What inspired me to get involved was simple: Justin is my home. I care deeply about protecting the character of our city and the relationships that make this place feel like home. That commitment guides my perspective for Mayor.

Justin is experiencing steady growth. How would you balance growth with preserving Justin’s small-town feel?

Growth is coming. The real question is how we guide it.Justin can grow without losing its small‑town identity, but only if we plan intentionally and communicate openly with residents. That means strengthening infrastructure, protecting established neighborhoods, and ensuring development aligns with our community’s values.

A strong community is built on people who volunteer because they care. When City Hall empowers volunteers instead of replacing them, we strengthen the relationships that hold our town together. We have seen firsthand that when volunteers lead, projects move faster, cost less, and build real community pride.

I support building a connected trail system for walking, jogging, rollerblading, and biking because it improves quality of life and strengthens our sense of community. With thoughtful zoning and steady leadership, we can welcome growth while preserving what makes Justin special.

What issues matter most for Justin in the next three to five years, and how would you address them?

My priorities are clear. Infrastructure, public safety, and financial stewardship come first.

• Strengthen long‑term planning and coordinate closely with Denton County officials

• Ensure police and fire departments have the staffing, equipment, and support they need

• Protect taxpayer dollars through transparent budgeting and responsible financial management

• Improve communication so residents always know what is happening and why

• Address water capacity, long‑term supply, and system reliability so our city can support current and future residents

• Prepare for major transportation changes, including the widening of Highway 1171, improvements along Highway 407, and the three planned grade separations at 1171, 407, and Strader. These projects will impact traffic flow, emergency response, and railroad crossings, so the city must plan ahead and communicate clearly with residents.

My background in business management, finance, and project leadership reinforces my commitment to disciplined planning and transparent decision making. Justin deserves leadership that is steady, consistent, and focused on the long term. Quick fixes are not enough.

What are your top three priorities for Justin over the next 3–5 years, and how do you plan to accomplish them?

Transparent leadership means residents understand the why, how, and when behind city decisions. People should not have to rely on Freedom of Information requests to know what their city is doing.

I believe in open processes, clear communication, and involving residents early. When City Hall oversteps or takes control of things that belong to the community, whether it is a youth program or a historic landmark, trust erodes. We’ve seen that when volunteers are allowed to lead, progress accelerates. The Gaston House accomplished more in six months under volunteer leadership than it did in the previous five years.

As Mayor, I will build tools, summaries, and communication channels that keep residents informed before decisions are made. My goal is to strengthen public confidence by making city government easier to understand and easier to engage with.

Disclaimer: We do not endorse any candidate. This content is for informational purposes only to help Justin voters make informed choices.