Magazine : 
Could Karthik Naralasetty Become the Next Mayor of Texas?
Karthik Naralasetty is running for mayor of The Hills, focusing on community service, innovation, safety, youth empowerment and transparent governance.
Karthik Naralasetty, an Indian-American entrepreneur and community advocate, is running for mayor of The Hills in Texas, bringing a wealth of experience in technology and public service. He traces his commitment to community service back to his father, who was deeply involved in rebuilding villages in India. His father founded the nonprofit Villages Integrated Social Action, which significantly influenced Naralasetty’s desire to lead and give back to the community. His journey began in a small village in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh and evolved into a tech-driven path that has made a global impact.
After moving to the United States to study at Rutgers University, Naralasetty pursued a degree in computer science but left to start his first company, Socialblood, a platform designed to address the global blood donation shortage. The initiative expanded to 21 countries, reaching over 120 million people, with Facebook as a key partner. Following this success, he went on to create Pawsh, a service platform connecting dog owners with groomers, further demonstrating his commitment to using technology for social good. His experience also extends to product design, where he has worked with Fortune 500 companies such as Apple and Walmart, contributing to innovations that prioritize human-centered design.
Naralasetty’s transition into politics reflects his lifelong dedication to public service and innovation. His journey from a small village in India to running for mayor of The Hills encapsulates his values of community engagement and technological advancement. He is particularly focused on community issues that affect everyday residents. Since moving to The Hills, he has worked on a range of local issues, including opposing the installation of a nearby cell tower, advocating for stronger school security and promoting cultural diversity through local festivals like Diwali. He has also proposed the creation of a farmer's market to foster community connections.
As he campaigns for mayor, Naralasetty focuses on the importance of protecting the town’s character from developments that could change its identity. He aims to improve community safety, including addressing traffic issues and implementing stronger security measures. Naralasetty is also committed to reducing the financial burdens on residents by advocating for lower property taxes and restructured fees. Furthermore, his vision includes empowering the youth of The Hills by establishing the Hills Future Innovators Program, which would encourage entrepreneurship through mentorship and competitions.
Strengthening the city’s technology infrastructure is another key focus of his campaign, with plans to improve digital engagement and services for residents. His commitment to open governance is encapsulated in his slogan, “No Closed Doors, Just Open Conversation,” enhancing transparency and collaboration between the city’s government and its residents. Through his blend of entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to public service, Naralasetty is seeking to make a significant impact as the next mayor of The Hills.
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