Irving District 3 Candidate Abdul Khabeer

1. As an elected official, what role could you play to promote the use of public spaces for gardens and botanical features that could support beneficial wildlife, like pollinators and native plants?

As the current Council Member for District 3, I've walked these neighborhoods, talked to these residents, and seen with my own eyes how a well-kept green space can completely transform the feel of a block — and if re-elected, I intend to take that energy straight into the budget room. I'll be advocating loudly for native plant installations, pollinator-friendly landscaping, and botanical features in our parks, medians, and public corridors because Irving deserves public spaces that are alive, not just maintained. I also want to deepen the partnership between the City and grassroots organizations like FIG, because the passion and expertise you all bring to this work is exactly what turns a good idea into something the whole community can see, touch, and enjoy. Irving is a city on the rise — and our green spaces should rise with it.

2. How could future developments in Irving like the old Texas Stadium site be incentivized to include green spaces and botanical elements?

The old Texas Stadium site is one of the most talked-about pieces of real estate in North Texas, and as a sitting Council Member I want to make sure Irving doesn't squander that moment by letting developers come in and build concrete from edge to edge. If re-elected, I will fight to ensure that development agreements for major projects include real green space requirements — native landscaping, rain gardens, pollinator corridors — not just a few decorative shrubs by the entrance. We can also get creative with density bonuses that reward developers who go above and beyond our minimums, which is a win-win that cities like Frisco and Plano have already proven works. Irving has a chance to build something iconic here, and iconic means green, beautiful, and built for people — not just profit.

3. What are some of your favorite places to enjoy nature in Irving / the DFW area?

Honestly, one of my favorite things to do is get out on the Campion Trail along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River — there's a peace out there that reminds you why we fight so hard to protect and invest in these spaces in the first place. Cimarron Park is another spot close to my heart because it's the kind of place where you'll see kids playing, families picnicking, and neighbors just breathing — and that's exactly what a community park should feel like. When I want to be inspired by what's possible, I'll make the drive out to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and just walk — because seeing that level of intentional, gorgeous botanical design makes me come back to Irving ready to push harder. We have the foundation here — FIG and neighbors like you are proof of that — and I'm running to make sure the next term is when Irving's green spaces finally get the recognition they deserve.

*For Voting Dates, Locations, and Times:

https://irvingtx.gov/elections