Ward Franz
District 1
Proven Experience. Bold Leadership. Denton.
A veteran leader with extensive local, state, and nonprofit experience, Ward Franz is running for Denton City Council District 1 to champion fiscal responsibility. He is dedicated to applying his proven record of public service to modernize our infrastructure and ensure long-term prosperity for all residents through bold, accountable leadership.
Ward’s Story: Roots and Leadership
From Missouri Roots to Texas Values
Public Service & Leadership
Raised on a Missouri family farm and poultry business, Ward built a foundation of hard work and heartland values that he brings to our community. This background provides him with a unique understanding of the challenges facing local families and small businesses, fueling his common-sense approach to leadership for District 1. Ultimately, Ward and his wife Kristi chose to make Denton their home, drawn to its vibrant arts scene, celebrated music, and rich historical identity.
Ward has spent his entire career putting people first, starting with his work in a family business and as a Deputy Juvenile Officer. He later served as a State Representative and a private business owner. He held crucial leadership positions such as Executive Director of the Ozarks Medical Center Foundation and Chief of Staff for the Missouri Lieutenant Governor. Additionally, he served as the Director of Tourism for the Missouri Department of Economic Development. His work with the Independence Chamber and Explore Siouxland supported nonprofits that helped local communities and showed his professional commitment to compassion. Through all these different roles, Ward has remained motivated by a simple desire to help every resident succeed through dedicated advocacy. Every part of his career has been centered on serving people first, including his focus on youth and families as well as local residents and community members.
Family & Community
Happily married to his wife Kristi for six years, Ward cherishes their blended family of five children, three bonus sons-in-law, and a granddaughter. This family-centered perspective fuels his deep respect for District 1’s diverse community and his commitment to representing every resident, regardless of their background or family structure. He is dedicated to inclusive leadership and listening to all voices to ensure everyone in Denton feels truly seen and heard.
Campaign Platform
Safe, Strong Neighborhoods
Solid Foundations
Public Service
Ward Franz believes proactive listening is the foundation of effective leadership, which is why he is dedicated to being fully accessible to every resident in District 1. You will find him actively engaging in our neighborhoods through community meetings, local events, and personal one-on-one conversations to ensure your voice is heard. He is committed to fostering an open dialogue where your concerns directly inform city decisions and shape a better future for Denton together.
Ward utilizes his legislative insight to balance smart growth with the preservation of our neighborhoods by prioritizing strategic planning and fiscal accountability. He is committed to updating our roads and essential water services while ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently on high-impact infrastructure projects. By anticipating the demands of our growing city today, he will deliver practical solutions that protect Denton’s heritage and secure long-term prosperity.
For decades, Ward has built a career defined by effective public service and impactful nonprofit leadership, demonstrating a consistent ability to solve complex problems through collaboration and integrity. He will translate this extensive experience into results for District 1, applying a proven record of fiscal management and transparent governance to every city decision. By bringing this seasoned perspective to the City Council, Ward is ready to ensure Denton remains accountable to its citizens and well-prepared for a prosperous, sustainable future.
