Qadri to Face Challenges in Austin District 9 Race

Incumbent Zohaib Qadri prepares for a contested Austin City Council seat ahead of the November 3 election.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in City Hall

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of an arched bridge silhouette, representing urban civic policy in the Austin municipal district. — Incumbent Zohaib Qadri faces challengers Rich Heyman and Katie Kam in Austin's competitive District 9 City Council race on November 3. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Incumbent Council Member Zohaib Qadri faces challengers Rich Heyman and Katie Kam in the upcoming November 3, 2026, election for Austin's District 9. The race centers on development decisions and campaign finance influences.

Why it matters

The contest highlights local debate over City Council actions, including the approval of large-scale development zones like the Dog's Head area and recent housing density reforms. Voters are evaluating whether these policies benefit the community or disproportionately favor corporate interests.

Council Member Zohaib Qadri raised $11,500 during the most recent reporting period, maintaining a balance of $140,000 for his campaign. The race follows the approval of a 2,600-acre development zone in southeast Austin known as Dog's Head.

The players

Zohaib Qadri

Zohaib Qadri is the current incumbent serving on the Austin City Council who is seeking reelection in District 9.

Rich Heyman

Rich Heyman is a former University of Texas lecturer who is running for the District 9 seat.

Katie Kam

Katie Kam is a former Austin city planner participating in the race for the council seat.

Austin United PAC

Austin United PAC is a political action committee that provided significant funding to groups opposing the incumbent.

The details

Challengers Rich Heyman and Katie Kam are contesting the seat held by Zohaib Qadri amidst scrutiny over city housing reforms and tax incentives for corporate projects like the new convention center. Opposition to the incumbent has been bolstered by funding from the Austin United PAC, fueling debate over council members' relationships with developers.

July 1 to September 24: Campaign finance reporting period.
November 3, 2026: Date of the upcoming Austin City Council election.

Political Context

The race serves as a referendum on recent city policies, including Austin's housing density reforms that seek to increase housing affordability. Opponents argue that council members have prioritized corporate interests, such as the Dog's Head development, over local residents.

Residents in District 9 will vote on November 3 to determine the direction of local housing policy and city development incentives. The outcome of the election directly impacts how the council manages future land-use decisions and corporate tax zones.

The takeaway

Voters should review the specific positions held by each candidate regarding the city's approach to large-scale development deals. Understanding the influence of political action committees provides necessary insight into the financial interests involved in this local election.