As the 2026 mayoral election nears, Frisco residents are preparing to choose the next leader who will help guide the city through continued growth and development. With multiple candidates on the ballot, voters are engaging in conversations about how to maintain Frisco’s sense of community amid rapid expansion.
“Frisco has grown so fast—it’s important that our leadership keeps listening to residents and finds ways to preserve what makes the city special,” said senior Kate Jones. “I’m excited to vote since I’m 18 now.”
The four candidates—John Keating, Shona Sowell, Rod Vilhauer, and Mark Hill—bring diverse priorities and experiences.
John Keating — A community-focused candidate who emphasizes local involvement and strong leadership. Keating has built his campaign around listening to residents and making sure their voices are heard in city decisions. He supports maintaining Frisco’s sense of community as the city grows and believes leadership should remain accessible and responsive to everyday concerns.
Shona Sowell — Known for her involvement in the community, Sowell focuses on communication, transparency, and strengthening relationships between residents and city leadership. Her campaign highlights the importance of improving quality of life, addressing community needs, and ensuring that residents feel informed and included in decisions that affect them.
Rod Vilhauer — A business and development leader with experience in construction and infrastructure. Vilhauer’s background gives him insight into how cities grow and manage expansion. His campaign focuses on key issues such as traffic congestion, responsible development, and maintaining reasonable taxes, aiming to support Frisco’s growth while keeping it efficient and sustainable.
Mark Hill — With experience connected to economic development, Hill focuses on unity and long-term planning. His campaign emphasizes balancing rapid growth with preserving the community’s identity. He advocates for thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and strategies that ensure Frisco continues to thrive while staying connected as a community.
“Local elections might seem small compared to national ones, but they directly affect our schools, traffic, and neighborhoods,” said senior Ryan Patel. “That’s why it’s important for students and families to stay informed.”
The election will take place May 2. To learn more about candidate platforms, visit friscotexas.gov/1692/May-2-2026-General-Election.
Voting locations and times are available at friscotexas.gov/1272/Voting-Dates-Hours-Locations.
