Two candidates are vying for two open seats in the Holden Ward 4 race in the 2026 Municipal Election on April 7.
The community member voted into each position will serve a two-year term. Candidates include Naomi Chastain and Karen Mensch.
Each candidate was asked to fill out a questionnaire. Answers were limited to 150 words and are listed in alphabetical order by last name. The candidates' responses have only been edited for grammar, clarity and punctuation.
Why are you running for office?
Chastain: I am running for office because I care deeply about improving the City of Holden. Our community deserves leadership that values transparency and clear communication. During my time on the Parks and Recreation Board, we made sure meeting information was submitted to the local newspaper each week because not everyone uses social media. I believe every resident should have equal access to information about what is happening in their city. Open communication builds trust, and trust strengthens a community. I want to serve to ensure Holden continues moving forward in a way that is inclusive, responsible and focused on the needs of all citizens.
Mensch: I’m running for Ward 4 because I care deeply about Holden and the people who call it home. My husband and I chose to build our life here, and I believe serving your community is both a responsibility and a blessing. My faith has taught me the importance of integrity, service and treating people with respect. I’m not running to create division — I’m running to serve with steady leadership and thoughtful decision-making. Holden has strong roots, and I want to help ensure we continue moving forward in a way that protects what makes our town special while planning responsibly for the future.
What are your qualifications?
Chastain: I bring over 25 years of professional experience, having retired from Sprint/T-Mobile, where I developed strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills. I currently work full-time as a Turf Technician at Powell Gardens and part-time at Anstine’s Livestock Auction. I have served three years on the City of Holden Parks and Recreation Board and worked for four years in park maintenance, giving me hands-on knowledge of our city’s facilities and needs. I am a longtime resident of the Holden–Kingsville area and am also a licensed CNA caregiver. My work experience, community involvement and dedication to service have prepared me to effectively represent and serve the citizens of Holden.
Mensch: I currently serve on Planning and Zoning and am a board member of the Chamber of Commerce. I regularly attend city council, public works and stormwater meetings to stay informed on the issues affecting our community. As a small business owner, I understand firsthand the importance of supporting local businesses and using taxpayer dollars wisely. My experience includes reviewing ordinances, understanding infrastructure challenges and learning how funding and grant processes work. Being actively involved allows me to approach decisions with preparation, knowledge and a clear understanding of how they impact residents.
What would be your top priorities in office?
Chastain: My top priorities focus on infrastructure and safety. I want to work toward improving our city’s drainage ditches, especially in areas like Strate’s Addition, where proper drainage is essential for protecting homes and property. I also want to improve sidewalks throughout Holden to ensure they are safe and accessible for our elderly residents, individuals with disabilities and children. Safe walkways and effective drainage systems are basic but critical parts of a well-functioning community. Addressing these concerns will improve quality of life and demonstrate our commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming city for all residents.
Mensch: My top priorities include responsible infrastructure planning, addressing stormwater concerns, supporting our parks and public spaces and strengthening our local economy. Holden faces important infrastructure decisions that require careful engineering, long-term planning and responsible financial management. I want to ensure city-owned property is used wisely and that development decisions are made with both current and future residents in mind. Transparency and respectful communication will also remain priorities because trust in local government matters.
What goals do you have for office if you are elected?
Chastain: If elected, one of my goals is to work toward creating additional parking areas for park events, especially on the southeast side west of the conduit along Clay Street. As our events continue to grow, adequate parking becomes increasingly important for safety and accessibility. I also want to continue supporting improvements to our parks and community spaces so families can gather comfortably and safely. My goal is to focus on practical improvements that meet real community needs while ensuring thoughtful planning for future growth.
Mensch: If elected, my goal is to continue building on the work already in progress while focusing on practical improvements that benefit the entire community. That includes pursuing funding for stormwater solutions, supporting thoughtful development and encouraging collaboration between city boards and committees. I believe steady leadership, long-term planning and community involvement are key to Holden’s continued success.
Why should people vote for you?
Chastain: People should vote for me because I am honest, dependable and committed to serving our community. I have volunteered for several City of Holden projects and have consistently shown my willingness to step up and help where needed. My husband and I have been honored with several awards over the past ten years from the Chamber of Commerce, reflecting our dedication to the community. I believe in hard work, transparency and putting the needs of citizens first. I am ready to serve Holden with integrity and a strong commitment to continued improvement.
Mensch: Voters should choose a candidate who is prepared, engaged and committed to serving with integrity. I attend meetings, stay informed and believe decisions should be made carefully and respectfully. I bring experience from planning and zoning, business ownership and chamber leadership. Most importantly, I care deeply about this town and the people in it. I am ready to continue serving Ward 4 with steady, responsible leadership.
Compiled by Hasina Shah.
