River Oaks Mayor · Nov 3, 2026
Don
Istook
Don Istook is running for mayor of River Oaks in the Nov 3, 2026 election, against Jill Fox.
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The race · Mayor
- 01Jill Fox
- 02Don IstookYou’re reading
Background
- About
- Self-employed former bank vice president, commercial business owner and real estate developer. He has served on River Oaks' Storm Water, Zoning Board of Adjustments, Planning & Zoning and Economic Development Corporation committees.
On the record: Don Istook
8 sourced01Property tax rate1 sourced position
Says city taxes are too high and that his economic and business development background will help with the city's tax structure.
City taxes are too high, we have clean water issues, ordinances are not being followed, and streets are in need of repair.”
Own statementVOTE411 (League of Women Voters)Link
02Public input1 sourced position
Wants monthly public forums and "Walk with the Mayor" events around the city.
I would like to have monthly public forums, and “Walk with the Mayor” in spot locations.”
Own statementVOTE411 (League of Women Voters)Link
03Water system1 sourced position
Says he will look into why the city has water issues, including by enlisting outside help.
I will dwell into why we have water issues, even enlisting outside help.”
Own statementVOTE411 (League of Women Voters)Link
04Code enforcement1 sourced position
Says proper enforcement of city ordinances will help clean up the city and proposes a citizen beautification program.
Proper enforcement of our ordinances will help in “cleaning up” our City.”
Own statementVOTE411 (League of Women Voters)Link
05Immigration enforcement1 sourced position
Asked about cooperation with ICE under 287(g), said it is a legal question to confer on with the city attorney and police chief.
That is a legal question, and one to confer with our City Attorney and Police Chief.”
Own statementVOTE411 (League of Women Voters)Link
06Parks2 sourced positions
As an Economic Development Corporation member, voted aye on qualifying $150,000 in matching funds for a Texas Parks and Wildlife grant at McGee Park (passed unanimously, July 2026).
Commission voteCity of River Oaks · Jul 27, 2026Link
As an Economic Development Corporation member, moved to seek bids of up to $20,000 for concrete work at the Event Center pavilion (passed unanimously, Feb. 2026).
Commission voteCity of River Oaks · Feb 2, 2026Link
07Alcohol permits1 sourced position
Voting on the Planning & Zoning Commission, made the motions recommending beer and wine permits for Stop N Save and Italiano's Restaurant on River Oaks Blvd. (both passed unanimously, Aug. 2026).
Commission voteCity of River Oaks · Aug 24, 2026Link
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