Mission, TX (KRGV) — The six mayoral candidates in Mission met on Wednesday for a forum to discuss their platforms.

The candidates agreed Mission needs drainage and water service improvements to keep up with the city's growth, but they gave different views on tax incentives to bring new businesses to the city.

The candidates on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot are retail business owner Natalie Garza, mechanic shop owner Juan Gines Crispin, Incumbent Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza, former Mission Mayor Armando O'Cana, Mission City Commissioner Ruben Plata and attorney Rick Salinas.

Natalie Garza said she is not against tax incentives from the city's economic development corporation, but she believes the city should know what it is getting into. She added that jobs with a livable wage matter and the city should track the progress of businesses receiving tax incentives.

Juan Gines Crispin believes the city should give tax incentives to businesses that make a strategic investment in Mission. He added that this would improve quality of life in the city.

Incumbent Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza said the city needs a standardized requirement to show businesses receiving tax incentives can create a certain number of jobs and give the city a good return on investment. She also mentioned that Mission has two active programs to promote growth for small businesses.

Former Mission Mayor Armando O'Cana said he wants to bring manufacturing to Mission. He believes that would create higher-paying jobs and mentioned that opportunity zones on the south side of the city are not being used to their full potential for business growth.

City Commissioner Ruben Plata said not every company and franchise needs tax incentives. He believes the city should focus those incentives more on small businesses.

Rick Salinas, son of former Mission Mayor Norberto "Beto" Salinas, said he does not want the city to attract just any business. He said he believes some businesses would tie up city services and resources.

Since six candidates are in the Mission mayoral race, there's potential for a runoff. Early voting starts on Monday, Oct. 19, and election day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.

Click here for more voting resources.

Watch the video above for the full story.