Solano

A UH student is going from books to ballots, hoping to gain a seat in the Pearland City Council in the upcoming election.

Political science senior Mark Solano is running for council position 5 — a three-year term seat held by Greg Hill, who is seeking re-election.

If elected, Solano will represent Pearland residents, aiming to satisfy their needs and work with the council in handling city growth.

“Overall, this is something that I’ve wanted to do for a while, I’ve always had a desire to serve and participate within governmental relations,” Solano said.

“I’ve held a lot of positions, most of them relate to governmental relations and public service, so in many ways I have been tailored for roles such as city councilman.”

Solano has represented students in the Student Government Association as both College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences senator and director of external affairs.

During his time in the senate, he co-authored the Graduate Transparency Bill, which passed during the last administration. Additionally, he worked with President Cedric Bandoh, a supply chain junior, in starting the Rebuild Cullen Campaign.

“I am confident that he will lead with a service-above-self mentality on behalf of the residents of Pearland, just like he did this year as my director of external affairs and for his fellow students,” Bandoh said.

Bandoh said he is excited about a SGA member running for office on a city council and that it reflects well on the University.

“How cool is it to have a Cougar running for office. It shows that the University of Houston has student leaders who deeply care for their community and are dedicated to service,” Bandoh said.

All students who are interested in volunteering on Solano’s campaign are encouraged to contact him by e-mail at markdsolano@gmail.com.

The General Election will be held on May 11, however early voting starts on April 29 and will continue on May 4 and May 6.

For more information, visit cityofpearland.com.

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