Ed Garza
Former Mayor of San Antonio | Urban Development & Public Policy Leader
The Honorable Ed Garza is a visionary leader with proven experience in public service, urban planning, and economic development. As the 57th Mayor of San Antonio—and the youngest in the city’s history—he led transformative efforts to drive sustainable growth, modernize governance, and revitalize under-invested communities. His leadership played a key role in securing Toyota’s $1 billion investment in South San Antonio, creating 5,000+ high-paying jobs and establishing City South as a thriving economic hub anchored by a new Texas A&M University campus.
Public Service & Leadership
Garza began his public service career as the District 7 City Council representative, serving two terms before being elected Mayor of San Antonio in 2001. His tenure was defined by a commitment to sustainable economic development, balanced urban growth, and public-private partnerships that reshaped the city’s economic landscape.
Since 2009, Garza has served as a Trustee on the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) Board, including a term as Board President (2012–2015). His leadership has focused on academic excellence, discipline, and leadership development, with the long-term vision of transforming SAISD into a national model for urban education.
Garza’s term on the SAISD Board of Trustees expires in 2025.
Urban Planning & Economic Development
Beyond public office, Garza has led major urban planning and infrastructure initiatives, shaping cities and communities across Texas and beyond. He has held key leadership roles, including:
- Managing Partner at Chile Media – Overseeing strategic planning and business development.
- Principal, Texas Region at AECOM – Driving large-scale infrastructure and development projects.
- Adjunct Professor – Teaching urban planning and public policy at the University of Texas at San Antonio and St. Mary’s University.
Boards & Thought Leadership
Garza’s expertise has been sought after by corporate and nonprofit boards, where he has provided strategic guidance on economic development, infrastructure, and public policy. His board affiliations include:
- Texas A&M University Foundation
- CPS Energy & San Antonio Water Systems
- National League of Cities & Fannie Mae Advisory Board
His thought leadership has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Texas Monthly, and CNN. He has testified before Congress and spoken at the Urban Land Institute, National Security Agency, and U.S. Embassy initiatives in Argentina, China, and Mexico.
Education & Community Engagement
Garza is a distinguished alumnus of Texas A&M University, where he earned:
- Bachelor’s in Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning (1992)
- Master’s in Land & Real Estate Development (1994)
He and his wife, Anna Laura, are active members of St. Paul Catholic Church and dedicated supporters of nonprofit organizations, including the San Antonio Children’s Shelter and the Cancer Therapy and Research Center.