Fifth Candidate Joins Austin Mayoral Race at the Eleventh Hour — Meet Jeffery Bowen

As the filing deadline approached, a new contender emerged in the battle for Austin’s mayoral seat. Jeffery L. Bowen joined the race, becoming the fifth candidate vying for the city’s highest office.

Bowen’s entry comes just in time for the upcoming November election, with incumbent Mayor Kirk Watson also on the ballot. Known for his involvement with the Austin Neighborhoods Council and the lawsuit that derailed Austin’s land development code rewrite, CodeNEXT, Bowen sat down to discuss his campaign, his stance on city affairs, and his plans should he be elected as Austin’s new mayor.

Experience and Involvement

Bowen brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served over 20 years in the U.S Air Force in various roles, from construction management to teaching leadership and management. After retiring from the service, he started his own small business in project management and consulting.

Locally, Bowen is an active community member, serving as a board member on the Board of Adjustments for about a year and as a vice president of the Austin Neighborhoods Council for around eight years. His commitment to the citizens of Austin is further underscored by his involvement in the lawsuit against CodeNEXT, a divisive land development code rewrite.

Positions on Local Issues

While his opposition to CodeNEXT is apparent, Bowen clarifies that his stance isn’t against change or attempts to make Austin more affordable. Instead, he voices his concern over the city’s misleading representations of the project and its potential infringement on individual property rights.

Bowen suggests that accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are one possible solution to increase affordable housing in the city. However, he strongly emphasizes the need for residents to be aware of the potential planning, fees, and tax implications of implementing ADUs.

Bowen’s opposition extends to another controversial project – Project Connect, a proposed public transportation project with a ‘forever tax.’ Bowen underscores the need for transparency in discussing such city projects and for equitable access to its benefits.

Candidates’ Views

Bowen is cognizant of the challenges he faces in this race, particularly the campaign juggernauts built by his opponents. However, he promises earnest effort and robust discussions about city affairs, advocating for increased voter participation and involvement in understanding the impacts of the city’s decisions.

In pitching to the voters, Bowen stresses that he is a voice of reason. His emphasis is on enabling informed voting and increasing public awareness of issues impacting the city. He aims to foster honest and open city council discussions and ensure that citizens have a say in Austin’s growth and development.