City council elections in Dallas, Texas (May 1, 2021, general elections)

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2021 Dallas elections

Election dates
Filing deadline: February 12, 2021
General election: May 1, 2021
Election stats
Offices up: City council
Total seats up: 14
Election type: Nonpartisan
Other municipal elections
U.S. municipal elections, 2021

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Fourteen districts held elections for Dallas City Council on May 1, 2021. All fourteen races were contested.

In Districts 2, 11, and 13, incumbent councilmembers Adam Medrano, Lee Kleinman, and Jennifer Staubach Gates did not run for re-election due to term limits.[1][2][3] All three open races advanced to a runoff, with Jesse Moreno and Sana Syed advancing in District 2, Jaynie Schultz and Barry Wernick advancing in District 11, and Leland Burk and Gay Donnell Willis advancing in District 13.

In District 4, incumbent councilmember Carolyn King Arnold and Maxie Johnson advanced to a runoff, in District 7 incumbent Adam Bazaldua and Kevin Felder advanced to a runoff, and in District 14 incumbent David Blewett and Paul Ridley advanced to a runoff. Incumbent councilmembers Chad West (1), Casey Thomas II (3), Jaime Resendez (5), Omar Narvaez (6), Tennell Atkins (8), Paula Blackmon (9), Adam McGough (10), and Cara Mendelsohn (12) won re-election with over 50% of the vote.

Writing for D Magazine, Alex Macon said: “If there is one issue driving Dallas City Council candidates this election season, it’s public safety.”[4] An increase in violent crime brought attention to the issue. Between 2019 and 2020, Dallas saw a 27% increase in aggravated assaults and a 23% increase in murders.[5] Additionally, following protests in response to the death of George Floyd, the council faced calls to reallocate some police department funding to other areas. In September 2020, the council voted to increase the police department’s budget but reallocated $7 million from police overtime funding to hire more civilian workers in the department, increase street lighting, and invest in other programs to address crime.[6]

In District 2, Raha Assadi, Jesse Moreno, and Sana Syed led the field in fundraising and endorsements. In District 11, Jaynie Schultz, Barry Wernick, and Hosanna Yemiru led the field, and in District 13 Leland Burk and Gay Donnell Willis led the field. To read more about the candidates, click here. To see a full list of the candidates running across all fourteen districts, click here.

In order to win election, a candidate must receive over 50% of the vote. If no candidate received over 50% of the vote, the top two vote-getters advanced to a runoff election on June 5, 2021.[7]

The Dallas City Council is the city's primary legislative body. It is responsible for setting policy, approving the budget, determining the tax rate, issuing and selling municipal bonds, purchasing and selling city property, establishing city departments, holding public meetings, approving city ordinances, determining city services, and appointing the city manager, city attorney, city auditor, city secretary, and municipal court judges.[8]

The city council consists of 14 members elected by district, and one mayor elected at large.[8]

* Click here for a current list of council members

Office

| Name | Party | Date assumed office | Date term ends

|
|
|
|

Dallas City Council District 1 | Chad West | Nonpartisan | June 17, 2019 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 2 | Jesse Moreno | Nonpartisan | June 14, 2021 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 3 | Casey Thomas II | Nonpartisan | 2015 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 4 | Carolyn King Arnold | Nonpartisan | December 19, 2018 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 5 | Jaime Resendez | Nonpartisan | June 17, 2019 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 6 | Omar Narvaez | Nonpartisan | 2017 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 7 | Adam Bazaldua | Nonpartisan | June 17, 2019 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 8 | Tennell Atkins | Nonpartisan | 2017 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 9 | Paula Blackmon | Nonpartisan | June 17, 2019 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 10 | Adam McGough | Nonpartisan | 2015 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 11 | Jaynie Schultz | Nonpartisan | June 14, 2021 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 12 | Cara Mendelsohn | Nonpartisan | June 17, 2019 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 13 | Gay Donnell Willis | Nonpartisan | June 14, 2021 | 2023 | Dallas City Council District 14 | Paul Ridley | Nonpartisan | June 14, 2021 | 2023

Ruth Torres, Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman, Ryan Moore, Mac Smith, and Elizabeth Viney completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection Survey. Click here to view their responses.

This page focuses on Dallas' city council general elections. For more in-depth information on the June 5, 2021, runoff elections, see the following page:

* City council elections in Dallas, Texas (2021)

This election is a battleground race. Other 2021 battlegrounds include:

* Louisiana's 2nd Congressional District special election, 2021 (March 20 primary election)
* Virginia Attorney General election, 2021 (May 8 Republican convention)
* Virginia gubernatorial election, 2021 (June 8 Democratic primary)

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## Contents

* 1 Candidates and election results
* 1.1 District 1
* 1.2 District 2
* 1.3 District 3
* 1.4 District 4
* 1.5 District 5
* 1.6 District 6
* 1.7 District 7
* 1.8 District 8
* 1.9 District 9
* 1.10 District 10
* 1.11 District 11
* 1.12 District 12
* 1.13 District 13
* 1.14 District 14
* 2 Candidate profiles
* 2.1 District 2
* 2.1.1 Raha Assadi
* 2.1.2 Jesse Moreno
* 2.1.3 Sana Syed
* 2.2 District 5
* 2.2.1 Ruth Torres
* 2.3 District 11
* 2.3.1 Jaynie Schultz
* 2.3.2 Barry Wernick
* 2.3.3 Hosanna Yemiru
* 2.4 District 13
* 2.4.1 Da'On Boulanger-Chatman
* 2.4.2 Leland Burk
* 2.4.3 Gay Donnell Willis
* 2.4.4 Ryan Moore
* 2.4.5 Mac Smith
* 2.5 District 14
* 2.5.1 Elizabeth Viney
* 3 Campaign finance
* 3.1 District 2
* 3.2 District 11
* 3.3 District 13
* 4 Noteworthy endorsements
* 4.1 District 2
* 4.2 District 11
* 4.3 District 13
* 5 Campaign ads
* 5.1 District 2
* 5.1.1 Raha Assadi
* 5.1.2 Jesse Moreno
* 5.2 District 11
* 5.2.1 Jaynie Schultz
* 5.2.2 Barry Wernick
* 6 Noteworthy events
* 6.1 Candidate responses to Keep Dallas Safe mailers
* 7 Debates and forums
* 7.1 District 2
* 7.1.1 Elm Thicket Northpark Neighborhood Association candidate forum (April 21, 2021)
* 7.1.2 Reform Dallas candidate forum (March 17, 2021)
* 7.2 District 11
* 7.2.1 North Dallas Chamber of Commerce candidate forum (April 15, 2021)
* 7.2.2 Reform Dallas candidate forum (April 9, 2021)
* 7.3 District 13
* 7.3.1 North Dallas Chamber of Commerce candidate forum (April 9, 2021)
* 7.3.2 Reform Dallas candidate forum (April 7, 2021)
* 8 Campaign themes
* 8.1 District 2
* 8.1.1 Raha Assadi
* 8.1.1.1 Campaign website
* 8.1.2 Jennifer Cortez
* 8.1.2.1 Campaign website
* 8.1.3 Michael Fetzer
* 8.1.3.1 Campaign website
* 8.1.4 Jesse Moreno
* 8.1.4.1 Campaign website
* 8.1.5 Jonas Park
* 8.1.5.1 Campaign website
* 8.1.6 Sana Syed
* 8.1.6.1 Campaign website
* 8.2 District 11
* 8.2.1 Candy Evans
* 8.2.1.1 Campaign website
* 8.2.2 Jaynie Schultz
* 8.2.2.1 Campaign website
* 8.2.3 Barry Wernick
* 8.2.3.1 Campaign website
* 8.2.4 Hosanna Yemiru
* 8.2.4.1 Campaign website
* 8.3 District 13
* 8.3.1 Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman
* 8.3.1.1 Campaign website
* 8.3.2 Candidate Connections
* 8.3.3 Leland Burk
* 8.3.3.1 Campaign website
* 8.3.4 Gay Donnell Willis
* 8.3.4.1 Campaign website
* 8.3.5 Ryan Moore
* 8.3.5.1 Campaign website
* 8.3.6 Candidate Connections
* 8.3.7 Mac Smith
* 8.3.7.1 Campaign website
* 8.3.8 Candidate Connections
* 9 Election history
* 9.1 2019
* 9.2 District 1
* 9.3 District 2
* 9.4 District 3
* 9.5 District 4
* 9.6 District 5
* 9.7 District 6
* 9.8 District 7
* 9.9 District 8
* 9.10 District 9
* 9.11 District 10
* 9.12 District 11
* 9.13 District 12
* 9.14 District 13
* 9.15 District 14
* 9.16 2018 District 4 special election
* 9.16.1 District 4 runoff
* 9.17 2017
* 9.17.1 District 1
* 9.17.2 District 2
* 9.17.3 District 3
* 9.17.4 District 4
* 9.17.5 District 5
* 9.17.6 District 6
* 9.17.7 District 6 runoff
* 9.17.8 District 7
* 9.17.9 District 7 runoff
* 9.17.10 District 8
* 9.17.11 District 8 runoff
* 9.17.12 District 9
* 9.17.13 District 10
* 9.17.14 District 11
* 9.17.15 District 12
* 9.17.16 District 13
* 9.17.17 District 14
* 9.18 2015
* 9.18.1 District 1
* 9.18.2 District 2
* 9.18.3 District 3
* 9.18.4 District 4
* 9.18.5 District 5
* 9.18.6 District 6
* 9.18.7 District 7
* 9.18.8 District 8
* 9.18.9 District 9
* 9.18.10 District 10
* 9.18.11 District 11
* 9.18.12 District 12
* 9.18.13 District 13
* 9.18.14 District 14
* 10 About the city
* 10.1 City government
* 10.2 Industry
* 10.3 Demographics
* 11 See also
* 12 External links
* 13 Footnotes

## Candidates and election results[edit]

### District 1[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 1

Incumbent Chad West defeated Giovanni Valderas, Stephani Kyle, and Gerardo Sánchez in the general election for Dallas City Council District 1 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Chad West (Nonpartisan)  |

52.1

| 2,087

| Giovanni Valderas (Nonpartisan)  |

39.7

| 1,590

| Stephani Kyle (Nonpartisan)  |

6.6

| 263

| Gerardo Sánchez (Nonpartisan)  |

1.7

| 69

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 4,009

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 2[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 2

Jesse Moreno defeated Sana Syed in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 2 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jesse Moreno (Nonpartisan)  |

57.5

| 1,611

| Sana Syed (Nonpartisan)  |

42.5

| 1,191

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 2,802

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|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 2

Jesse Moreno and Sana Syed advanced to a runoff. They defeated Raha Assadi, Jennifer Cortez, and Michael Fetzer in the general election for Dallas City Council District 2 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jesse Moreno (Nonpartisan)  |

39.0

| 1,345
✔ |

| Sana Syed (Nonpartisan)  |

24.5

| 846

| Raha Assadi (Nonpartisan)  |

14.6

| 503

| Jennifer Cortez (Nonpartisan)  |

11.3

| 390

| Michael Fetzer (Nonpartisan)  |

10.7

| 369

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source

| Total votes: 3,453

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

* Jonas Park (Nonpartisan)

### District 3[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 3

Incumbent Casey Thomas II defeated Irby Foster in the general election for Dallas City Council District 3 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Casey Thomas II (Nonpartisan)  |

82.1

| 2,530

| Irby Foster (Nonpartisan)  |

17.9

| 551

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 3,081

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 4[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 4

Incumbent Carolyn King Arnold defeated Maxie Johnson in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 4 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

55.0

| 1,484

| Maxie Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

45.0

| 1,216

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 2,700

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 4

Incumbent Carolyn King Arnold and Maxie Johnson advanced to a runoff. They defeated Matt Canto, Johnny Aguinaga, and Lelani Russell in the general election for Dallas City Council District 4 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

46.6

| 1,578
✔ |

| Maxie Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

37.1

| 1,257

| Matt Canto (Nonpartisan)  |

8.3

| 282

| Johnny Aguinaga (Nonpartisan)  |

5.4

| 182

| Lelani Russell (Nonpartisan)  |

2.7

| 90

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 3,389

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 5[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 5

Incumbent Jaime Resendez defeated Terry Perkins, Yolanda Williams, and Ruth Torres in the general election for Dallas City Council District 5 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jaime Resendez (Nonpartisan)  |

51.7

| 1,095

| Terry Perkins (Nonpartisan)  |

22.0

| 466

| Yolanda Williams (Nonpartisan)  |

19.1

| 404

| Ruth Torres (Nonpartisan) |

7.1

| 151

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 2,116

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 6[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 6

Incumbent Omar Narvaez defeated Monica Alonzo, Wendi Macon, Earl Thomas, and Tony Carrillo in the general election for Dallas City Council District 6 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Omar Narvaez (Nonpartisan)  |

56.2

| 1,264

| Monica Alonzo (Nonpartisan)  |

19.5

| 438

| Wendi Macon (Nonpartisan)  |

18.8

| 423

| Earl Thomas (Nonpartisan)  |

4.3

| 97

| Tony Carrillo (Nonpartisan)  |

1.3

| 29

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 2,251

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 7[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 7

Incumbent Adam Bazaldua defeated Kevin Felder in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 7 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam Bazaldua (Nonpartisan)  |

63.3

| 1,787

| Kevin Felder (Nonpartisan)  |

36.7

| 1,035

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 2,822

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 7

The following candidates ran in the general election for Dallas City Council District 7 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam Bazaldua (Nonpartisan)  |

39.4

| 1,472
✔ |

| Kevin Felder (Nonpartisan)  |

15.4

| 576

| Donald Parish (Nonpartisan)  |

14.8

| 551

| Israel Varela (Nonpartisan)  |

11.4

| 426

| Tramonica Brown (Nonpartisan)  |

7.6

| 285

| Calvin Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

7.4

| 276

| Walter Higgins (Nonpartisan)  |

2.7

| 102

| James Turknett (Nonpartisan)  |

1.3

| 47

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 3,735

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 8[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 8

Incumbent Tennell Atkins defeated Subrina Brenham, Davante Peters, and Lakolya London in the general election for Dallas City Council District 8 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Tennell Atkins (Nonpartisan)  |

73.6

| 1,981

| Subrina Brenham (Nonpartisan)  |

17.2

| 463

| Davante Peters (Nonpartisan)  |

5.8

| 155

| Lakolya London (Nonpartisan)  |

3.5

| 94

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 2,693

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 9[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 9

Incumbent Paula Blackmon defeated Judy Kumar and John Botefuhr in the general election for Dallas City Council District 9 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Paula Blackmon (Nonpartisan)  |

63.1

| 4,380

| Judy Kumar (Nonpartisan)  |

20.4

| 1,413

| John Botefuhr (Nonpartisan)  |

16.6

| 1,149

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 6,942

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 10[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 10

Incumbent Adam McGough defeated Sirrano Baldeo in the general election for Dallas City Council District 10 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam McGough (Nonpartisan)  |

90.9

| 5,815

| Sirrano Baldeo (Nonpartisan)  |

9.1

| 583

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 6,398

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 11[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 11

Jaynie Schultz defeated Barry Wernick in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 11 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jaynie Schultz (Nonpartisan)  |

54.0

| 4,443

| Barry Wernick (Nonpartisan)  |

46.0

| 3,790

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 8,233

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 11

Barry Wernick and Jaynie Schultz advanced to a runoff. They defeated Hosanna Yemiru and Candy Evans in the general election for Dallas City Council District 11 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Barry Wernick (Nonpartisan)  |

38.1

| 3,038
✔ |

| Jaynie Schultz (Nonpartisan)  |

36.2

| 2,889

| Hosanna Yemiru (Nonpartisan)  |

19.6

| 1,564

| Candy Evans (Nonpartisan)  |

6.1

| 486

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source

| Total votes: 7,977

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 12[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 12

Incumbent Cara Mendelsohn defeated Elva Curl in the general election for Dallas City Council District 12 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Cara Mendelsohn (Nonpartisan)  |

79.6

| 5,044

| Elva Curl (Nonpartisan)  |

20.4

| 1,293

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3 Source 4

| Total votes: 6,337

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 13[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 13

Gay Donnell Willis defeated Leland Burk in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 13 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Gay Donnell Willis (Nonpartisan)  |

53.5

| 5,248

| Leland Burk (Nonpartisan)  |

46.5

| 4,560

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 9,808

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 13

Leland Burk and Gay Donnell Willis advanced to a runoff. They defeated Mac Smith, Ryan Moore, and Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman in the general election for Dallas City Council District 13 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Leland Burk (Nonpartisan)  |

43.0

| 4,133
✔ |

| Gay Donnell Willis (Nonpartisan)  |

41.9

| 4,019

| Mac Smith (Nonpartisan) |

7.5

| 720

| Ryan Moore (Nonpartisan) |

4.2

| 406

| Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman (Nonpartisan) |

3.4

| 325

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source

| Total votes: 9,603

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 14[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 14

Paul Ridley defeated incumbent David Blewett in the general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 14 on June 5, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Paul Ridley (Nonpartisan)  |

60.6

| 4,776

| David Blewett (Nonpartisan)  |

39.4

| 3,104

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source 1 Source 2

| Total votes: 7,880

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 14

Paul Ridley and incumbent David Blewett advanced to a runoff. They defeated Elizabeth Viney in the general election for Dallas City Council District 14 on May 1, 2021.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Paul Ridley (Nonpartisan)  |

45.6

| 4,076
✔ |

| David Blewett (Nonpartisan)  |

32.1

| 2,866

| Elizabeth Viney (Nonpartisan) |

22.3

| 1,987

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. Source

| Total votes: 8,929

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

## Candidate profiles[edit]

This section includes candidate profiles created in one of two ways. Either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey or Ballotpedia staff created a profile after identifying the candidate as noteworthy.[9] Ballotpedia staff compiled profiles based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements.

### District 2[edit]

#### Raha Assadi[edit]

Raha Assadi

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Assadi received bachelor’s degrees in sociology and Spanish from Southern Methodist University and a law degree from Baylor University. Leading up to the election, she worked as an associate attorney at Figari + Davenport, LLP and a labor and employment attorney at Jackson Lewis P.C.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Assadi said the single biggest issue facing her district was “access to homeownership, affordable rent or basic shelter.” She said she would support co-ops, increase access to low-cost home development and repair loans, and partner with housing non-profits.

* * *

Assadi said she would address public safety by addressing poverty. She said she would oppose “any effort to raise taxes on low-income and middle-class families” and “hold corporations and investors accountable for improving communities in District 2.”

* * *

Assadi said the Dallas City Council was too partisan. She said her experience as a lawyer would help her bring “a sense of impartiality, neutrality, and devotion to the community.”

* * *

Sources: The Dallas Morning News, "Raha Assadi," accessed April 25, 2021; Raha Assadi's campaign website, "Issues," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Raha Assadi," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 2 in 2021

#### Jesse Moreno[edit]

Jesse Moreno

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Moreno attended Texas State University-San Marcos and the University of North Texas. He worked as the owner of La Popular, a chain of three restaurants, and served on the Dallas Park Board starting in 2013.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Moreno said housing was his district’s greatest need. He said he would increase affordable housing by implementing the Comprehensive Housing Policy, continuing tax incentives for developers to construct affordable housing, and expanding use of the city’s Land Trust and subleasing.

* * *

Moreno said he wanted to provide “police the necessary resources to protect Dallas while holding them accountable for results.” He said he wanted to invest in training and ensure police are paid on par with the industry.

* * *

Moreno said he would encourage “neighborhood-focused, conscious development.” He said he would do this by taking into account the history of neighborhoods and through public art.

* * *

Sources: Jesse Moreno's campaign website, "Priorities," accessed April 25, 2021; The Dallas Morning News, "Jesse Moreno," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Jesse Moreno," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 2 in 2021

#### Sana Syed[edit]

Sana Syed

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Syed received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Texas at Arlington, a master’s degree in journalism from Texas Christian University, and a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Texas at Arlington. Leading up to the election, she worked as an executive vice president of community outreach and development at Nicholas Residential LLC.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Syed said she would implement a trauma-informed policing model to address public safety and “build bridges between police and the minority and Black communities.” She said she would invest in “holistically address[ing] crime, mental/behavioral health and substance abuse” to help police “focus on where they are needed most – addressing crime.”

* * *

Syed said she would address homelessness by providing grants “to non-profits such as City Square, The Bridge and Austin Street Shelter.” She said she would increase access to affordable housing by shortening the permitting process for affordable housing developers.

* * *

Syed said she would work to improve infrastructure. She would prioritize fixing potholes and increasing sidewalk access and quality in neighborhoods.

* * *

Sources: The Dallas Morning News, "Sana Syed," accessed April 25, 2021; Sana Syed's campaign website, "Priorities," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Sana Syed," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 2 in 2021

### District 5[edit]

#### Ruth Torres[edit]

Ruth Torres

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am a multi-racial mom with a beautiful multi-racial family raising 5 kids, including 3 after their mom's died. I am a Human Resources Consultant of over 25 years, small business owner and former Business Professor who’s taught hundreds how to start and grow their business. I'm a strategic problem-solver bringing results for businesses, managing major changes including opening locations nationwide, supporting businesses of up to $2Billion in annual revenues and 20,000+ employees. I'm ED for a non-profit serving at-risk youth, Successful Careers and have over12 years experience in workforce development. See professional endorsements at LinkedIn.com and Professor Ratings. I originally came to Dallas in 1997, earned my bachelors degree in Business from Mountain View College & Dallas Baptist University and Masters in International HR Management from FIU. After 12 years in Dallas and experiences that revealed the clear lack of justice, equity and decades of neglect; I feel a duty to use my skills and experience to work for BOLD CHANGE for the equity our community deserves. I am committed to bringing equity and quality of life while protecting against gentrification."

* * *

Key Messages

The messages below are the candidate’s own.

* * *

We can't keep doing the same thing and expect different results. It's time for change.

* * *

I am the only D5 candidate with the business experience and ethics to bring the change our community deserves.

* * *

I acted as an unelected citizen leading changes in law with bi-partisan support to stop street racing making our streets safer.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 5 in 2021

### District 11[edit]

#### Jaynie Schultz[edit]

Jaynie Schultz

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Schultz received a bachelor’s degree in government from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in urban studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. At the time of the election, Schultz was chairwoman of the board of the CityLab High School Foundation.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Schultz said the greatest issue facing her district was rising taxes for homeowners. She said she would address this issue, while also preserving quality city services, by expanding the commercial tax base.

* * *

Regarding public safety, Schultz said the Dallas City Council’s role was “to work closely with the [police] chief on making sure that he’s achieving the metrics that he offers us.” She said she would work to ensure first responders “have the tools and training they need to keep families safe and lower crime rates.”

* * *

Schultz said she would work to repair streets and alleys. Regarding alleys, she said she was working with her staff and neighborhood residents to “pilot some alternative measures for sanitation that would enable the city to repair alleys much more efficiently.”

* * *

Sources: Jaynie Schultz's campaign website, "Issues," accessed April 25, 2021; The Dallas Morning News, "Jaynie Schultz," accessed April 25, 2021; The Preston Hollow Advocate, "Jaynie Schultz: Meet the District 11 City Council candidates," April 11, 2021; LinkedIn, "Jaynie Schultz," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 11 in 2021

#### Barry Wernick[edit]

Barry Wernick

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Wernick studied Russian literature and Post-Soviet and East European studies at the University of Texas at Austin and received a law degree from Southern Methodist University. He worked as an attorney, mediator, and arbitrator at Wernick Law group leading up to the election.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Wernick said his main priority was public safety. He said he would support this by “making sure [police] have the resources they need to make our city safe,” and opposing reductions to police department budgets.

* * *

Wernick said he would work to “repair Dallas' existing infrastructure to meet its growing service needs and demands.” He said roads and sidewalks were areas he would focus on.

* * *

Wernick said he would work to reduce property taxes in the district. He said he would work to reduce what he said was unnecessary government spending and increase funding for police.

* * *

Sources: Barry Wernick's campaign website, "Home," accessed April 25, 2021; The Preston Hollow Advocate, "Barry Wernick: Meet the District 11 City Council candidates," April 11, 2021; YouTube, "Dallas City Council District 11 Candidate Forum," April 15, 2021; Barry Wernick's campaign website, "About," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Barry Wernick," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 11 in 2021

#### Hosanna Yemiru[edit]

Hosanna Yemiru

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Yemiru received a bachelor’s degree in American studies from the University of Texas - Dallas. She worked as field director for Candace Valenzuela’s (D) 2020 campaign for U.S. Congress and as the campaign manager for Tom Ervin’s (D) 2020 campaign for Texas State House.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Yemiru said one of her top priorities was ensuring an effective response to the coronavirus pandemic. She said she would do this by working to ensure federal aid is spent on rental, mortgage, small business, and eviction assistance and streamlining the application process.

* * *

Yemiru said her other top priority was addressing homelessness. She said she would “pursue the creation of permanent supportive housing” for people who are homeless and increase their “access to shelters, food and mental health resources.”

* * *

Yemiru said she would increase public safety by addressing “the root causes of crime that continue to overburden our neighborhoods and officers alike.” She said she would invest in “environmental design, housing, jobs and mental health resources.”

* * *

Sources: Hosanna Yemiru's campaign website, "Priorities," accessed April 25, 2021; The Dallas Morning News, "Hosanna Yemiru," accessed April 25, 2021; Hosanna Yemiru's campaign website, "About," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 11 in 2021

### District 13[edit]

#### Da'On Boulanger-Chatman[edit]

Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am a proud Dallas native who grew up in the southern suburb of Oak Cliff. I graduated from Booker T. Washington HSPVA. I then went on to study choral conducting and music education at Stephen F. Austin State University. While at SFA, I was able to participate in several community enriched performances, at home in the U.S. and abroad in the churches and beautiful countries in Europe. After receiving my Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music in Choral Conducting, I quickly made my way back home to Dallas. I teach choir and music studies at Lakeview Centennial High where I am the Director of Choirs and Department Chair for the Visual and Performing Arts on my campus. Outside of my teaching post, I enjoy spending my free time singing in various Dallas based choral communities like the Dallas Symphony Chorus and various churches in the North Dallas Area. I am dedicated to using my time and influence for positive change around me. I know that my decisions at the local level affect the everyday lives of those around me. Most of all, are those people of color who will even greater feel the weight of my community based decisions because it is they who are at the lower extremes of socioeconomic status. As a Dallas City Official, I understand that it is my decisions in the ways of policy making, budget allotment and cuts, and data analysis that influence the very basic modes of our communities' way of life."

* * *

Key Messages

The messages below are the candidate’s own.

* * *

I believe in keeping our children and community safe. It is important that our vast city adopt all CDC COVID-19 guidelines for best safety practices. It is imperative that our local government echo the facts and procedures to help keep our communities safe and productive. In keeping with this sentiment, Dallas City Council must also address pan-handling and mental health awareness. Many Dallas residents have noticed an uptick in tents and make-shift living arrangements growing around the US 75 highway. This is a dangerous situation. It is time for the city council to weigh in and give some guidance on the matter.

* * *

As I have lived in our community, I’ve noticed that housing in our great city is not indeed great. If you have noticed a problem like me, you have noticed that the housing market both for renting and homeownership is too expensive for middle-class Dallasites to afford. I have heard from our neighborhoods that many move to surrounding cities immediately outside of Dallas and commute in for their work and daily business. This is unacceptable. As your elected City Council Member for District 13, I want to champion this issue for us. We can make this work. We must simply work together. If elected, I will advance this issue until we get the answers we seek or the affordable housing we deserve.

* * *

I will endeavor in my role in the City Council to create policy and committees that specifically demand accountability and transparency, like the New Directions for Public Safety and Positive Change created by the Dallas City Council along with city managers and community leaders. This group’s goal was to produce alternatives to armed police response and provide more opportunity for other types of intervention like sending out a caseworker and psychiatrist to help an officer mitigate situations with the best and most proper tools.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 13 in 2021

#### Leland Burk[edit]

Leland Burk

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Burk received a bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University. At the time of the election, he worked as the president of Burk Interests, Inc., a real estate investment firm, and served on several organization boards, including the Dallas Museum of Art, UT Southwestern Medical Center, and the Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Burk said he would “bring a taxpayer’s perspective to City Hall.” He said he would focus spending on basic services. He said his business experience would help him reduce government spending.

* * *

Burk said he would support public safety by providing funding to police departments. He said he would invest “in innovative, research-backed community-based policing strategies that keep us safe and address root causes of crime.”

* * *

Burk said economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic was a challenge the district was facing. He said he would use his real estate and finance experience to protect basic services if city budgets are reduced.

* * *

Sources: Leland Burk's campaign website, "Issues," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Leland Burk," accessed April 25, 2021; The Preston Hollow Advocate, "Leland Burk: Meet the District 13 City Council candidates," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 13 in 2021

#### Gay Donnell Willis[edit]

Gay Donnell Willis

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Biography: Willis received a bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing from Texas Tech University. Leading up to the election, she was the president and chief executive officer of the Turtle Creek Conservancy, which worked to conserve natural spaces in Dallas.

* * *

Key Messages

* * *

Willis said her top priority was public safety. She said she would strengthen public safety by increasing funding for police departments, keeping officer pay on par with suburban departments, and advocating for community policing practices.

* * *

Willis said she would work to improve infrastructure. She said she would focus on streets, alleys, and sidewalks, and address “inequities that exist from street-to-street and neighborhood-to-neighborhood in the district.”

* * *

Willis said property tax relief was a need in her district. She said she would implement property tax relief for seniors and would expand the tax base by “accelerating the overdue improvements needed to unclog commercial and residential permitting processes.”

* * *

Sources: Gay Donnell Willis' campaign website, "Issues," accessed April 25, 2021; Gay Donnell Willis' campaign website, "Background," accessed April 25, 2021; LinkedIn, "Gay Donnell Willis," accessed April 25, 2021

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 13 in 2021

#### Ryan Moore[edit]

Ryan Moore

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "As a North Texas kid, I first knew Dallas as the big city with Mavs and Stars games, concerts at the Meyerson, and Santa’s annual visit to NorthPark. Once I moved to the Hilltop, I became a lifelong SMU Mustang, and Dallas became my home. While studying at SMU, I worked at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Preston Center, caught midnight movies in Inwood Village and enjoyed the occasional breakfast at the Original House of Pancakes – a stone’s throw from where I would settle into my first house almost a decade later. In the meantime, I attended law school in Los Angeles and specialized in tax law in New York City. I returned to California to kick-start my career (and pick-up my canine sidekick, Saxon), and spent over a year in Singapore where I learned the value of embracing the unexpected and also how much I was ready to come back home. My time away provided constant confirmation of my long-held belief that Dallas is truly a world-class city. Each new location either highlighted the many ways that Dallas is already a world leader or sparked ideas for the opportunities that Dallas can seize as we continue to develop our global reputation. Upon returning to Dallas in 2018, I couldn’t help but think that all of these experiences equipped me with the unique perspective needed to help shape the future of our great city. I am thrilled to be back in Dallas and to have the opportunity to contribute to our community. I am equally thankful for the long and winding journey"

* * *

Key Messages

The messages below are the candidate’s own.

* * *

Comprehensive Public Safety Strategy

* * *

Tax-Centric Approach to Development and Homeowner Relief

* * *

Fresh Perspective on District - Focus on Neighborhoods West of Marsh Lane and East of Highway 75

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 13 in 2021

#### Mac Smith[edit]

Mac Smith

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am a licensed professional engineerl I earned a BS in Civil Engineering and a PhD in Environmental Health Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. I managed my own construction business in Dallas for 20 years. I managed multi-million dollar construction projects for Dallas Area Rapid transit for another 20 years. My first project with DART was the Downtown Bus Transfer Centers, my largest was the $400 million plus Green Line from Buckner Station to Mockingbird Lane. My last major project was the construction of the Orange Line from Beltline Road into DFW Airport. I have been married 53 years and lived in Dallas for 47 years. I have not run for office before. I have no close friends at City hall. I owe no favors. I bring fresh eyes and a skeptical mind to the City's problems. 45% of the City budget is related to public works. I bring special expertise to that area. My construction experience has made me alert to opportunities to cut cost. I have managed multi-million dollar construction projects. I am no stranger to large and complicated budgets. I am an engineer. I look for cost effective solutions, I dig out the facts, I do the math. visit my website: www.macsmith413.com to learn more."

* * *

Key Messages

The messages below are the candidate’s own.

* * *

We are overtaxed. The City of Dallas property tax rate of 77 cents per $100 valuation is 37% higher than the tax rate in Houston and San Antonio. I will work to roll back the tax rate and freeze property tax revenue until we are in line with Houston and San Antonio.

* * *

The number of police officers in Dallas has declined from 3553 to 3043 in the last six years while the murder rate has more than doubled. Some on the council want to defund the police. We need to defund other parts of the budget and increase funding for police. We need added officers for a "surge" on crime hotspots similar to the DPS effort two summers ago. We also need to increase narcotics enforcement. Drug overdoses claim several times as many lives as murders each year.

* * *

Homeless encampments are springing up all over the city. If that is allowed to go unchecked we will end up like Seattle. Google "Seattle is Dying" and watch the video if you don't know what I mean. We need to help people who have been made temporarily homeless by circumstance (divorce, loss of jobs, etc.) but our efforts toward the hardcore homeless should be directed toward restoing them to work and sobriety. We do not need to spend money to make the hard-core homeless more comfortable. We need to show them a way out and ensure that they take it.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 13 in 2021

### District 14[edit]

#### Elizabeth Viney[edit]

Elizabeth Viney

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "Elizabeth is a mom, lawyer, and longtime advocate for justice. She is jumping into this race for one reason and one reason only—to make Dallas a safer and more prosperous place for our community. We are in a crisis. Rising crime, government shutdowns, and lack of preparedness have weakened our city, endangered our neighborhoods, and crippled small businesses. These are issues that go to the core of our vitality as a city and ones for which we need strong leadership at City Hall. Elizabeth is that leader. Strong, decisive, and responsive, she will fight for you and for our beloved Dallas community."

* * *

Key Messages

The messages below are the candidate’s own.

* * *

Public Safety: defend the innocent, not defund our officers

* * *

Support small business and economic development

* * *

Lower Taxes and efficient government.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Dallas City Council District 14 in 2021

## Campaign finance[edit]

### District 2[edit]

### District 11[edit]

### District 13[edit]

## Noteworthy endorsements[edit]

This section lists noteworthy endorsements issued in this election, including those made by high-profile individuals and organizations, cross-party endorsements, and endorsements made by newspaper editorial boards. It also includes links to endorsement lists published on campaign websites, if available. Please note that this list is not exhaustive. If you are aware of endorsements that should be included, please email us.

### District 2[edit]

Click the links below to see endorsement lists published on candidate campaign websites, if available.

* Jesse Moreno
* Sana Syed

Noteworthy endorsements

Endorsement  |  Assadi |  Moreno |  Syed
Newspapers and editorials
The Dallas Morning News[10] |  |  | ✔
Elected officials
District 7 Dallas City Councilmember Adam Bazaldua[11] |  | ✔ |
District 2 Dallas City Councilmember Adam Medrano[12] |  | ✔ |
District 6 Dallas City Councilmember Omar Narvaez[11] |  | ✔ |
Organizations
Black American Futures PAC[11] |  | ✔ |

### District 11[edit]

Click the links below to see endorsement lists published on candidate campaign websites, if available.

* Jaynie Schultz
* Hosanna Yemiru

Noteworthy endorsements

Endorsement  |  Schultz |  Wernick |  Yemiru
Newspapers and editorials
The Dallas Morning News[13] | ✔ |  |
Elected officials
District 11 Dallas City Councilmember Lee Kleinman[13] | ✔ |  |
Texas State Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos (D)[14] |  |  | ✔
Individuals
Former District 11 Dallas City Councilmember Lois Finkelman[13] | ✔ |  |
Former District 11 Dallas City Councilmember and Texas State Representative Linda Koop (R)[13] | ✔ |  |
Organizations
Black American Futures PAC[14] |  |  | ✔
The Collective PAC[14] |  |  | ✔
Grassroots Law Project[14] |  |  | ✔
Run For Something[14] |  |  | ✔

### District 13[edit]

Click the links below to see endorsement lists published on candidate campaign websites, if available.

* Leland Burk

Noteworthy endorsements

Endorsement  |  Burk |  Willis
Newspapers and editorials
The Dallas Morning News[15] |  | ✔
Individuals
Former District 13 Dallas City Councilmember Ann Margolin[16] | ✔ |
Former District 13 Dallas City Councilmember Mitchell Rasansky[16] | ✔ |

## Campaign ads[edit]

This section shows advertisements released in this race. Ads released by campaigns and, if applicable, satellite groups are embedded or linked below. If you are aware of advertisements that should be included, please email us.

### District 2[edit]

####  Raha Assadi[edit]

Supporting Assadi

####  Jesse Moreno[edit]

Supporting Moreno

|
|

### District 11[edit]

####  Jaynie Schultz[edit]

Supporting Schultz

|

* "Jaynie Schultz: Pro-Public Safety," released March 25, 2021

####  Barry Wernick[edit]

Supporting Wernick

"Working with the Community" - Wernick campaign ad, released April 16, 2021

"Wernick for Dallas Intro and Endorsements" - Wernick campaign ad, released April 15, 2021

## Noteworthy events[edit]

### Candidate responses to Keep Dallas Safe mailers[edit]

Leading up to the election, an organization called Keep Dallas Safe sent out mailers in opposition to and support of candidates running for Dallas City Council.[17] Keep Dallas Safe's website says its mission is to "to preserve safety and security for people and for businesses across the city" of Dallas.[18]

Some candidates released statements in response to the mailers. Incumbent Councilmember Paula Blackmon (District 9), who was opposed by a Keep Dallas Safe mailer, called certain claims in the mailer "absolutely ludicrous" in an interview with the Dallas Observer and said "they just keep persisting in this campaign of lies."[19] Sana Syed, a candidate in District 2 who was supported by the mailers, said on Facebook: "I do not agree with attack tactics depicting violence to achieve political objectives - this is not how we, as a city, move forward. I do not appreciate what happened and call on Keep Dallas Safe to cease any further efforts in this election."[20]

## Debates and forums[edit]

### District 2[edit]

#### Elm Thicket Northpark Neighborhood Association candidate forum (April 21, 2021)[edit]

District 2 Candidates Forum, held on April 21, 2021

#### Reform Dallas candidate forum (March 17, 2021)[edit]

District 2 Candidate Forum from Reform Dallas, held on March 17, 2021

### District 11[edit]

#### North Dallas Chamber of Commerce candidate forum (April 15, 2021)[edit]

Dallas City Council District 11 Candidate Forum, held on April 15, 2021

#### Reform Dallas candidate forum (April 9, 2021)[edit]

Dist. 11 Candidate Forum from Reform Dallas., held on April 9, 2021

### District 13[edit]

#### North Dallas Chamber of Commerce candidate forum (April 9, 2021)[edit]

Dallas City Council District 13 Candidate Forum, held on April 9, 2021

#### Reform Dallas candidate forum (April 7, 2021)[edit]

Dist. 13 Candidate Forum from Reform Dallas, held on April 7, 2021

## Campaign themes[edit]

See also: Campaign themes

### District 2[edit]

####  Raha Assadi[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Assadi’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* On the Issues

Our district is only as prosperous as its residents, and too many people in Dallas are at risk of being left behind. District 2’s last election was only decided by 7% of its voters. It’s time for representation that can reach beyond the same interest groups and career politicians. Economic Prosperity As a first-generation American, I can tell you how necessary it is to have honest access to opportunity. Our district is increasingly becoming home to some of the largest real estate projects and corporations in the state. These projects add jobs, resources, and value to the district for many people. It’s our duty to make sure these companies know that with great power (and resources) comes great responsibility. I will stand up to any effort to raise taxes on low-income and middle-class families in District 2. Using my expertise and training in contracts, I can hold corporations and investors accountable for improving communities in District 2 after they have been invited to do business here.

* The Dallas Housing Crisis

Displacement

Access to homeownership, affordable rent, or basic shelter is District 2 and Dallas’ single greatest need. Too many minority communities are being pressured into selling their homes to developers, wiping away the decades of history, culture, and neighborhoods so many families have worked so hard to build. The result is displacement of families for the benefit of new and largely unaffordable housing options. This sends our neighbors the message that they are not wanted here. We need to be encouraging Black and Brown wealth, not stripping it away from them.

Housing Affordability

I have seen our housing affordability crisis up close during my time with Dallas Evictions 2020, where I helped tenants facing eviction during the pandemic. Redevelopment is happening in District 2 but we have a chance to revitalize not just gentrify. At City Hall, I will continue helping families remain in their homes without fear of eviction or displacement. We can get developers to invest more in revitalizing low-income areas. I’ll use my training in oversight to make sure that our Tax Increment Finance program is working faster in District 2 and across Dallas.

Keeping seniors and lower-income residents in their homes was an urgent need before COVID-19, and it is even more relevant now. This moment calls for permanent, stronger tenant protections in our city ordinances. If elected, I will promote the use of Community Land Trusts to allow residents to pool resources and gain equity in the neighborhoods they have called home for so long. I look forward to working on cost-effective permanent and transitional housing options for District 2, as well as proposals to expand and increase the budget for the city’s Housing Improvement and Preservation Program.

District 2 is sprawling across some of Dallas’ most dense areas. On city council, I will promote housing that is consistent with Connect Dallas, the city’s Strategic Mobility Plan. We have to build housing that makes sense by providing transportation options to every corner of the district.

Homelessness

I know from talking to experts and residents in District 2 that homelessness is on the rise across our city. The reality is that homelessness disproportionately affects children, veterans, minorities and those who suffer from addiction or mental illness. These individuals are our neighbors and are more likely to be met with arrest and criminal charges. The result is homeless people having to appear in court, address the charges, and potentially face a stay in jail, all of which puts people at risk of lost wages, termination, and prolonged housing insecurity. We need a permanent housing solution to this unique issue. On city council, I’ll work to strengthen diversion programs with the county.

Instead of using $500,000 to clear one encampment this year, we could have paid market rent for efficiencies to house up to 30 homeless individuals for a year. That stability enables people to get their lives back together and find employment. Refocusing spending towards public health workers, social work professionals, vocational specialists, and professional development aides for the homeless population to monitor conditions and provide support is a necessary tool to dealing with homelessness in the meantime.

* Public Health & Safety

The COVID-19 Crisis

One of the strongest indicators of inequity in Dallas are the huge disparities in public health access and outcomes. Seeking prevention or recovery from COVID-19 should not depend on a zip code or the color of your skin.

District 2 is home to the city’s prized Medical District, where we host some of the best healthcare experts in the state. The skill of our district’s professionals should be matched with a quality public health effort by the city to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and provide access to vaccines to all. After last year’s state and federal mismanagement of the pandemic, it’s up to cities to lead on preventing the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.

Fighting Poverty

If the great people of Dallas have money for conventions and fountains, then we certainly have money to keep our families healthy and thriving. Our city leaders must do more to fight the scourge of gun violence, substance abuse and domestic violence that residents deal with day-to-day. These are big problems, but they can be solved.

Dallas has a poverty problem. Poverty begets crime, a lack of education and stable home lives in childhood are why most of Texas’ prisoners are currently locked up. By attacking poverty, we can reduce much of Dallas’ petty crime. Aside from feeling unsafe from becoming victims of property crime, many constituents of D2 have felt unsafe in their own homes. The crime of domestic violence in Dallas cuts across every race and income bracket. It’s a major issue and results in regular homicides and suicides. Dallas needs to lead the way in Texas by keeping a register of serial harassers, stalkers and domestic abusers. We know after decades that these criminals become lethal and we currently don’t have a smart way to track them like we do with the sex offender registry.

Food Insecurity

Food insecurity in Dallas has been further exacerbated by the pandemic. Families should never have to wonder where their next meal will come from, and children should not have to rely on their school cafeteria as a source for food. If elected, I will support data-backed methods and transparency to end food deserts in Dallas. I will also work with residents who provide mutual aid to the people of Dallas in the meantime. Ending hunger will not happen overnight, and we need every tactic to get there.

I pledge to work with public health experts, not politicians, to define exactly how much investment is needed by the city for interlocal public health programs. By concentrating on harm reduction and prevention, Dallas can ease budget uncertainty during this time of economic crisis.

* Social Justice

As someone sworn to uphold the law, I believe that a cry for help should not be met with violence or excessive force. The legacy of systemic racism in our justice system shows us time and again that similar crises are not always met with the same type of intervention. I support existing police accountability initiatives and the work of so many of my colleagues and mentors who seek broad criminal justice reform in Dallas.

The backlog of rape kits to be tested in the city of Dallas is unacceptable. Our police department needs help, and it’s time to look for strategies to alleviate this workload. We need to send a strong message that we will do our best to get justice for victims and prevent future assaults.

If elected, I’ll strive to make sure our dollars are being spent to keep Dallas safe by rigorously reviewing methods, performance and contracts related to public safety to ensure the highest degree of police accountability that this city deserves.

Police Reform

One of the most important jobs in our community should be met with serious vetting. Amazon monitors its workers’ output and addresses their performance better than Dallas does with its police force. The consequences and value of police service require a new and modern sense of oversight for cities. This starts with HR. We need to take a good, hard look at DPD’s practices in hiring, firing, and everything in between. In addition to tightened HR procedures, police should be mandated to record all stops even if an arrest isn't made along with other improvements to data transparency and efficiency. By doing so, we can ensure we’re hiring the right people, which lends itself favorably to retention, while mitigating liability of the police department and city. We should get every bit of return on investment from this substantial portion of our public safety budget.

Police officers are tasked with one of the hardest jobs in society, which oftentimes requires them to wear multiple hats. We need to dedicate funding to addressing trauma before and after our officers hit the streets. By making this trauma-informed investment, we can help recruits understand that our city is one where they can thrive not just survive.

Commitment to Anti-Racism

All of our intentions should be guided by recognizing the segregated history of Dallas and its roots in racism. We also need to reevaluate how we’re prioritizing anti-racism. Dallas can show its dedication to this cause by requiring what many private companies require - that all employees complete annual diversity & inclusion/anti-racism training and community service initiatives aimed toward ending racism. By required immersion into this issue, we can slowly chip away at the virus of its own that is racism. The City Council’s March 2021 unanimous vote for the Racial Equity Resolution was a welcome moment of unity a a great start to some of this urgent work.

* Transparency & Accountability

Councilmembers need to be accessible and accountable to their constituencies. The City of Dallas spends millions of dollars on outsourcing to consulting and advisory companies, when many answers are right in front of us. I believe that our budget must become more accountable to the people and needs of Dallas going forward.

It matters how we elect our leaders. Only 7% of our district elected our outgoing councilman. If elected, the people of District 2 will be the first people I engage with on any issue. I will take their concerns into consideration when I determine how to vote. My training has taught me to look at all of the evidence and make an informed, ethical, and efficient decision. If constituents have questions, I consider it a duty to explain every side of a problem so people walk away feeling heard and championed.

* Environmental Justice

Infrastructure

I believe that if District 2 can have high-income housing and world class dining, it should also have safe streets that don’t cause driving hazards and waste. These concerns are echoed across our neighborhoods, and there are already residents ready to help identify areas that need improvement. I also pledge to partner with the county to fight for every dollar afforded by the state of Texas for road and traffic improvements.

A Greener Dallas

Residents of District 2 are concerned about our city's long-term plan to reduce its environmental impact. Dallas has a duty to recognize the consequences of growth, ensure healthy waste management, and negotiate for responsible development. I will use my formal training to stand up for the demands of minority communities who are disproportionately in proximity to environmental hazards. [21]

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—Raha Assadi’s campaign website (2021)[22]

####  Jennifer Cortez[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Cortez’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Housing as a Human Right

We will fight to keep neighborhoods together against higher property taxes, increased rents, and predatory developers. We can revitalize without reallocation.

Creative solutions for our unsheltered population that expand services and shelters across the city. Let's end youth homelessness.

* Access & Relief

We can invest in community resources and human services that are open and easily accessible to ALL regardless of race, orientation, gender, language, migration status, socioeconomic level, or any other identity.

* Basic needs
* COVID care, health, & mental services
* Quality education & learning resources
* Protect & invest in small businesses

* Safe & Welcoming Communities

We can reimagine public safety beyond hiring more police by using a holistic approach that allows for transformative justice & racial healing. Let's serve everyone while still protecting our thriving migrant community.

* Mobility & Sustainibility

We need to mobilize Dallas by providing more accessible transportation options, better streets, and creating walkable, bikable solutions for our downtown neighborhoods.

We will fight for a clean, livable Dallas that seeks environmental justice and combats the climate change crisis. Let's eliminate food waste and prioritize real solutions. [21]

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—Jennifer Cortez’s campaign website (2021)[23]

####  Michael Fetzer[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Fetzer’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Priorities
* Supports Public Safety With A Well Funded Police Department
* Local Economic Development Prioritizing Small Businesses and Residents of Dallas
* Modernizing Our Streets And Vital Infrastructure
* Cutting Out The Bureaucratic Waste Of Our Hard Earned Tax Dollars

* Public Safety: Michael's #1 Priority - Police, Fire, EMS/EMT

Michael is District 2’s strongest supporter of Public Safety. No one wants to live, do business, or grow a family in a city they do not feel safe in. Unfortunately, Dallas is in decline and Public Safety needs to be addressed immediately; which is why Michael has made it his top priority. The current city council voted to defund our police department $7 Million Dollars, Michael Pledges to restore and increase funding to our First Responders.

* In 2020, There were 253 Homicides in Dallas. a 23% Increase from 2019
* In 2019, Dallas experienced its highest Crime Rate in over 15 years
* Dallas’ Murder Rate is 90% Higher than the rest of the country
* The Average Response time for a Priority 1 Call is 9 minutes
* in 2018, The DPD was forced to abolish it’s VICE Squad
* Property Theft in Dallas is now Higher than Chicago – Our Current DA Has Stated they will not prosecute property theft under $750
* Last year, there was 30% More Violent Assaults and Gang Related Drive By Shootings have increased 148% over the past few years.
* Dallas is an epicenter of the Worst Human Rights Violation in our recent History: Human Trafficking. In Dallas alone, it is a $99M/year industry and an average of 400 people are Trafficked in Dallas EVERY DAY

Solutions:

* A Safer Dallas For All Citizens. We need to ensure our First Responders are provided the proper Funding and Resources they need to be able to combat the increasing crime levels in Dallas. Michael Supports:
* Restore and increase Funding for both Police and Fire Departments
* Support The Re-establishment of the VICE Squad to Combat the WORST HUMANS RIGHTS VIOLATION IN OUR RECENT HISTORY – Human Trafficking
* Establish Cyber Security Task Force to Combat the growing issues of Human and Drug Trafficking operating online in Dallas
* Hire up to an additional 2500 Diverse DPD Officers to reflect our Diverse Dallas (Currently there is approx. 1 officer per 1300 Citizens)
* Demand the DA enforce our laws and stop giving criminals a free pass to steal
* Improve the existing infrastructure and equipment our DFD Desperately needs
* Support a needed Increase of service fees for DFD to avoid our DFD turning into a Fire District. Let’s Take care of OUR City.
* Fix, Protect, and Fully Fund our First Responders Pension AT ALL COSTS. Promises were made and those Promises need to be kept.

* Economic Development

Transparency is something we have been missing from City Hall: Michael Plans on changing this.

We will Audit EVERY SINGLE DIME spent in city hall. We will then be able to identify where the bureaucracies or “fat” in our current $3.88B budget is. We will cut the bureaucracy by 20% or more. With these savings, we will be able to reallocate those funds to important projects that are currently under served.

Our tax payers deserve to understand and feel confident with how their hard earned dollars are being spent by the City. No more “sweet heart contracts” or “pet projects” that serve the interests of the current City Council – Michael will serve the interests of our community above all else.

* Opening and simplifying our Vendor Lists: Locally owned small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy and deserve to compete with national chains and big box stores to do business with our city.
* Incentivize Private Sector to Invest/Open in Under Served Areas: Through existing programs such as TIF’s, Tax Abatement, Tax Deferment, etc For businesses providing services that are not currently accessible in underserved areas

Let’s give the people who live in their own homes a Property Tax break:

* Property Taxes In Dallas has risen 56% over the last 5 Years
* Encourage home-ownership: for 1st-time home-buyers we should cut their Dallas property tax by 50% the 1st year, 37½% the 2nd year, 25% the 3rd year and 12½% the 4th year.
* Protect the elderly from property-tax foreclosures: many retired home owners live on small fixed incomes like Social Security. All property taxes that exceed 6% of their total income should be deferred – interest free – until the owner-resident either dies, sells, rents or transfers the property.
* (does not apply to rental property or a home that is not the owner’s primary residence. A 1st-time buyer is a person who has not owned a home anywhere in the world for the last 15 years.)

* Infrastructure
* Let’s repair and modernize our decaying infrastructure – streets, bridges, water, gas and sewer lines. A crumbling city will not attract new business.
* Dallas should be a clean city – no one should have to wait months for storm damage to be removed. Many of our “green zones” are filled with trash.
* We need to have strong building codes and enforcement to put criminals who are trafficking drugs and humans out of business.
* Use Existing Grant/Bonds To Fund Infrastructure Improvements and Repairs
* Partner with Private Sector to Revitalize and repurpose vacant/decaying properties through P/PP Programs.

[21]

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—Michael Fetzer’s campaign website (2021)[24]

####  Jesse Moreno[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Moreno’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

My No. 1 priority will be working to improve the quality of life in district 2 and build on the progress we have made. I will ensure we have accountability in our city government and across city departments, and I have a known record of being accessible and transparent in achieving that.

District 2 is only as strong as its neighborhoods. This means letting neighbors determine the future of the places they live. As it evolves and progresses, it’s important that we stand up for residents and make sure everyone in Dallas has a safe place to live. My priorities include:

* Providing police the necessary resources to protect Dallas while holding them accountable for results
* Encouraging neighborhood-focused, conscious development
* Defending and increasing available affordable housing
* Helping our seniors stay in our communities
* Alleviating poverty and homelessness
* Improve our infrastructure to include sidewalks that are accessible to people of all abilities and improving our public transportation systems

[21]

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—Jesse Moreno’s campaign website (2021)[25]

####  Jonas Park[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Park’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Principled leadership: Representing all with fairness, empathy and passion

No one person has solutions to all issues, but together we will.

* Workforce training, creating jobs, & supporting small businesses

Financial independence provides dignity. During our Current Health and Economic Pandemics we must reimagine how business can be done, and what full time work can mean.

*     * Develop City, Community, and Private sector collaboration for job training and utilize vacant lots to create popup business opportunities and urban farms (greener, healthier, productive.)
* Make the permit process simpler and streamlined for small businesses which will create jobs. Things like forcing a coffee shop owner to pay $2000 to be able to put up a sign to attract walk-by businesses have no place in today's marketplace. (we will find a way to safely add more parklets that helps customers and the businesses both.) Housing permit problems likely cost Dallas over 580 new houses, $260M in tax base growth, expert says according to Dallas Business Journal. That is money wasted in the both ends. Delayed process cost us money, and City losing the tax/fee revenue! Put that money into a good use helping everyday people and small businesses.
* Promote art and culture program

* Enhancing Public Safety

For our neighborhoods to thrive they must be safe. Holding the Police Chief accountable for the actions of their department is the job of our elected officials.

*     * Police need the funding to be trained on de-escalation
* Social workers should be dispatched for all non-violent calls, whenever possible (this will also create jobs in our community).
* Focus on wrap-around services that address the root causes of crime (i.e. poverty and mental health)
* Recruit police from within the community

* Sustainable Development & Balanced Preservation

Any growth that happens in District 2 must be in the best interest of the existing residents and businesses. We cannot allow the people who build our communities to be pushed out of them.

*     * Before any development is proposed to the City, developers will be required to reach out to the community and neighborhood to collaborate from the beginning.
* Accountability and transparency is not just a slogan, it is a mandate.

* Walkable Green City

As our population continues to grow we must make the investments now to increase walkability and reduce total dependency on cars.

*     * City code needs to change to ensure that no sidewalk is closed during construction. We will require scaffolding so pedestrians can still safely walk on the sidewalk, like all other “large” cities.
* Repair and improvements to sidewalks must be a priority.
* Repair potholes and infrastructure.
* Plant more trees to provide shades to mitigate harsh Dallas summers for walking.
* Separate bulk trash into two different piles from the recyclables to nonrecyclable such as tree branch's.
* Promote recycling all one time use paper cups at coffee shops.

* All Issues need your input and especially listed below even more. Please contact me to come up with solutions together.

Frequently, misunderstandings and cultural insensivity stem from from our societally learned behavior that teaches “they” are different from “me.” A lot of us are not aware of it as we are living in it. And not all indifferences are malicious; Many of us have not had a misfortune to be in somebody else’s shoes. A few weeks ago there was a question posted by one of the current council members asking what the residents would like to see going forward with police. A quite of number of people voiced wanting to be treated with “kindness.” We need to promote the kindness in everything we do. People First.

* Minority & LGBTQ+ issues are our Issues

No band aide approach works. systematic implicit and explicit bias gives certain communities disadvantage from the get go. Let’s sit down, honestly acknowledge we all bear responsibility, and try to address the issues at the root level.

* Temporary and Chronic Homelessness

No one dreams to become homeless or ‘nuisance’ of society.  Simply speaking,  an opportunity to do better  is lacking in many cases for us to have a place called home and have a dignified living.  While we address mental wellness, we We must create opportunities for all citizens to be positively contributing to well-being of the district and the city.

* Affordable Housing throughout the City

Affordable housing is investing in workforce and also a good investment for the city.

* Controlled Property Taxes

Tax burden is too high for what City is providing for home owners and small businesses, especially for ones who have owned the same property for a long time. I’ve seen many of my neighbors pushed out of their houses for they could no longer afford skyrocketing property taxes.

Too many business suffer during the pandemic. City should at least make its rules and policies flexible enough to help the industry. [21]

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—Jonas Park’s campaign website (2021)[26]

####  Sana Syed[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Syed’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* PRIORITIES

“My priorities are economic revitalization, exploring a trauma-informed public safety model, and addressing equity in education and housing.”

* Strengthen & Reform Public Safety

We have an opportunity to create more programs to retain officers, to expand the RightCare program and to focus police training on retraumatization of individuals and addressing secondary trauma within the police department. There is a compounding effect on residents who have endured chronic trauma and encounter police and there are compounding secondary trauma effects within the police department that must be addressed. Training focused on this also helps officers identify trauma symptoms and will allow officers to better triage cases, as resources expand and become more available for mental/behavioral health.

We missed an opportunity last year to build bridges with the Black and minority communities and strengthen the police department. There is a trauma informed policing model that has been employed at some police departments in the United States - this model could find a home here in Dallas as well.

The trauma informed model addresses the re-traumatization of individuals, particularly youth, and addresses secondary trauma among police. This model can be expanded to also address secondary trauma among fire fighters and paramedics.

Within this model, we are seeing people as people, without titles, and can then begin to have a conversation around racial healing when we acknowledge and address trauma and the criminalization of youth, which predominantly affects the Black community.

If we can holistically address crime, mental/behavioral health and substance abuse, we are helping our police focus on where they are needed most – addressing crime. And expanding training on trauma and working with hospitals and mental health partners will provide police and the city with critical resources to actualize change in how we address crime in our community.

* Improve Our Aging Infrastructure

We have planned for cars, not people. Changing that will take years and must be done with a sense of urgency. I’m encouraged by D2, but am concerned about the timeline and money spent on this. There must be clear milestones for achievement to ensure we are being mindful on dollars spent and delivering on this within a shorter time frame.

Our streets are horrible – there’s no denying this. I, like anyone who drives in Dallas, often cringe when I hit pothole after pothole. Some of our neighborhoods don’t even have sidewalks – some that do have breaks and buckles that make it unappealing to use. I’d like to see a more substantive plan for addressing sidewalks in our city. The effort to achieve more walkability is there, but we must include key target dates. We can provide more opportunities/feeders for runners and cyclists to get to our parks and trails safely. And I applaud DART board members efforts to focus the buses on where the people are. The care and intention is there.

* Find Lasting Solutions to Homelessness

We need to employ a thoughtful approach to homelessness to address the issue and protects our neighborhoods. Instead of the city attempting to lead the way in addressing homelessness with large budgets for administrators, that money would be better spent as grants and resources to non-profits such as City Square, The Bridge and Austin Street Shelter. Then investing in innovative solutions to shorten the permitting process so that affordable housing developers are incentivized to develop more affordable housing within the city and we can address the homeless crisis with shelter, food and mental health.

* Complete Recovery From COVID-19

Many of our local small business have been devastated by the restrictions to combat the pandemic. As more and more people become vaccinated, and we safely open up our economy the City needs to do more to help these businesses, who provide the bulk k of the jobs in our community recover. In addition, we need greater collaboration with the business community and the Small Business Administration to enhance workforce development. Programs focused on job interview training, job placement, entrepreneurial success help create a structured process and resources for those who have lost their jobs or had to close their businesses [21]

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—Sana Syed’s campaign website (2021)[27]

### District 11[edit]

####  Candy Evans[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Evans' campaign website stated the following:

“  |

Hi there, I’m Candy Evans.

Business Owner, Real Estate Consultant, Volunteer, Board Member, Wife, Mother, Grandmother & City Council Candidate

“I will make District 11 the Best Place to call home!”

Born in snowy Chicago, Candy left the Windy City to attend college on the east coast at Wheaton (Norton, Mass.) and Dartmouth College. After receiving her Bachelor’s Degree, cum laude, she returned to Chicago to be one of the youngest assignment desk editors at WBBM-TV. From there she went to Columbia University in NYC for her M.S.J., where she met her husband, Walter Evans II, M.D. They moved to Dallas as newlyweds in 1980 and fell in love with the city. Now, 41 years, two children, and (almost!) four grandchildren later, Candy wants to give back to Dallas with her knowledge, skills, talents, and love.

One of the nation’s leading real estate reporters, she is the founder and publisher of an exciting and growing platform of real estate-focused news websites: her signature CandysDirt.com, SecondShelters.com, and MidlandDirt.com. She is also the North Texas real estate editor for Forbes.com, CultureMap Dallas, Modern Luxury Dallas, & the Katy Trail Weekly. Constantly breaking celebrity real estate news, she scooped former president George W. Bush’s Dallas home purchase in 2008 while on staff at D Magazine. Her verticals have won countless awards, including Best Blog by the venerable National Association of Real Estate Editors, one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious journalism associations. Candy holds an active Texas real estate license. She is on the Board of Directors of Braemar Hotels & Resorts (BHR). An avid volunteer, Candy was President of the Dallas USA Film Festival in 2015 and remains on the board. She is a member of the Dallas County Medical Society Alliance (DCMSA), & chaired a home tour on its behalf, netting more than $115,000, one of the most successful in DCMSA history. She has been involved with the Dallas Arboretum, the Yellow Rose Gala, Paws Cause, Cattle Barons, and Presby Partners. She also worked as a tireless volunteer at her children’s schools, Hockaday and St. Marks. In 2012, she and her husband, Walter F. Evans II, M.D., co-chaired the Texas Medical Association annual gala in Dallas, “Going for the Gold”. Both are very active in the Columbia University and Dartmouth Clubs of Dallas. They also started one of the first neighborhood police patrols in Preston Hollow, and are leaders in the Hillcrest Estates/Northaven Crime Watch Patrol. She is on the Public Safety Committee of the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce.

Married for 41 years, Candy & Walter are members of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, with two Golden Doodles, and Josie, a yellow-naped Amazon parrot, who had a starring role in the “Real Housewives of Dallas”. Candy was featured in “Daughters of the Sexual Revolution: The Untold Story of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” produced by Dana Adam Shapiro, based on the book she wrote in 1982.

Candy’s connections OUTSIDE of Dallas and in the real estate community will make her one of the most valuable CM’s in Dallas, as she pulls new business opportunities to the Preston Road corridor. But her commitment to her home District 11 will remain focused on the highest quality for homeowners and always, a good life in Dallas. [21]

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—Candy Evans' campaign website (2021)[28]

####  Jaynie Schultz[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Schultz’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Panhandling/Homelessness

To protect our neighborhoods, property values and those who truly need help- we must take action. We must first understand that many panhandlers are not homeless, and addressing this issue takes a multi prong approach. Giving money to panhandlers, most of whom are NOT homeless, only exacerbates the problem. I’ve started working with local non-profits who serve the homeless community toward a solution to help those truly in need while discouraging the panhandlers who prey on our neighborly charity. We can show compassion to the truly needy while cracking down on those who prey on the charity of our citizens.

* Strong & Vibrant Neighborhoods

Building strong neighborhoods are critical for our future. While serving on City Planning Commission for 6+ years, I made sure our neighborhoods had a strong voice when it came to zoning issues. This is one reason we never had a contentious zoning battle- because our neighborhood’s concerns were heard and addressed.

​I secured improvements from developers that added amenities to the neighborhoods while strengthening the economic base of our district. Such as enhanced landscaping at Costco, neighborhood patrols in the Churchill area and parks in Preston Hollow Village.

​The key to strong neighborhoods is to have good communication. I regularly speak with every neighborhood and HOA leaders to hear about your issues. I have a plan to strengthen neighborhood associations and leadership and ensure they have a voice on the decision that impact their quality of life.

​As your councilmember, I’ll significantly invest my time to enhance communication with residents via social media, text messages and regular e-newsletters. The recent winter storm only highlights how imperative it is we are able to communicate quickly and with clarity to residents.

​My goal is to empower everyone to have a voice on the issues that impact your quality of life.

* Lower Crime

I will work closely with our first responders to ensure they have the tools and training they need to keep families safe and lower crime rates. I will foster cooperation between Dallas Police, DISD, RISD, and our neighborhood associations to build trust and transparent communication to fight crime. And we can do better on the little things. For instance, it’s proven that proper street lighting deters property crime. It’s a simple, yet effective tool we can deploy now.

* Grow the Tax Base, Not Taxes

To ensure we can offer great city services, while lessening the tax burden on homeowners we must grow the commercial tax base. This is one reason I have dedicated so much time toward the Preston Hollow Village project that brought desirable amenities like Trader Joe’s. As your next council member, I’ll make sure the Galleria/ Valley View development will be something we will all be proud of.

* Streets and Alleys

Many neighborhoods have streets and alleys in need of repair. I have reached out to city staff to find out the master repair schedule for both streets and alleys. Much of the problem with alleys is the sanitation trucks used by the city. I am working on ideas with staff and neighborhood residents to pilot some alternative measures for sanitation that would enable the city to repair alleys much more efficiently. [21]

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—Jaynie Schultz’s campaign website (2021)[29]

####  Barry Wernick[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Wernick’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* PUBLIC SAFETY

Prioritize public safety ensuring the police and fire departments have the resources they need to keep Dallas safe.

* REPAIR INFRASTRUCTURE

Repair Dallas' existing infrastructure to meet its growing service needs and demands.

* PROPERTY TAXES

Fight against rising property taxes while cutting wasteful spending.

* HOMELESSNESS

Address the growing situation of homelessness and panhandling by getting people off the streets and back on their feet.

* BOOST THE ECONOMY

Boost the economy by enticing people and businesses to move back to a city, not divided by districts, but united by the common goal for a safe and strong Dallas. [21]

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—Barry Wernick’s campaign website (2021)[30]

####  Hosanna Yemiru[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Yemiru’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Public Health

Our city and its residents continue to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in our everyday lives. We must listen to the experts and continue to actively address this public health crisis in a comprehensive, holistic manner, and we cannot continue to leave our neighbors behind in the process.

Once elected to City Council, Hosanna's top priority will be getting the current public health crisis under control and making sure that our neighbors who are struggling financially due to the pandemic get the support they need.

This means using common-sense policy solutions to help struggling businesses, particularly our bars and restaurants, recover and thrive by allowing establishments to reclaim outdoor spaces.

We must streamline COVID aid and PPE to targeted communities including first responders, front line workers, seniors and other vulnerable communities.

As the city receives additional federal COVID aid, Hosanna will fight to ensure that enough of those funds are allocated to helping renters and homeowners make payments.

* Housing + Homelessness

It is important that we address our rising homelessness numbers before Dallas follows the path of other cities that are now dealing with unsustainable practices. Luckily, the most cost-effective and efficient solution to homelessness is simple: housing.

As a member of the Dallas City Council, Hosanna will pursue the creation of permanent supportive housing for our neighbors currently experiencing chronic homelessness and work to provide our unhoused neighbors with access to shelters, food and mental health resources.

With the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing economic crisis, Hosanna will also work to ensure that Dallasites facing evictions have legal counsel and work to allocate funding to rental and mortgage assistance.

Together, we can address housing and homelessness needs in our city before we are faced with the crisis that cities across the country are already grappling with. It is always more cost-effective to deal with these issues today when the add-on costs are low rather than pushing it further down the road for future generations to deal with.

* Public Safety

We currently allocate over 60% of our general budget to public safety in Dallas. That's over 800 million dollars. Yet, our city is on track to pass a ten-year record on homicides in 2020.

It's time we reimagine public safety in Dallas and truly invest in crime reduction in our neighborhoods. We can no longer afford to do only what is most convenient: turn a blind eye to the root causes of crime that continue to overburden our neighborhoods and officers alike.

On City Council, Hosanna will fight for common-sense policies that decrease crime by investing into preventative measures such as environmental design, housing, jobs and mental health resources. She will work closely with community partners and city agencies to identify opportunities to efficiently and properly address violence and crime— such as directing non-police work to the appropriate city departments so that every 911 call is answered and resolved safely while reducing the burden on officers in the process.

Together, we can prevent and reduce crime as well as demand accountability from our city. We must refuse the status quo solutions that got us here in the first place and truly make a robust investment into public safety.

* Property taxes + Affordability

Dallas has seen incredible growth in the past decade and with every person that moves here, we see more demand for housing, transportation and jobs. It is integral that we build a Dallas that protects Dallasites that are already here while accommodating transplants. After all, more and more people are discovering what we already know: that Dallas can be a great place to live, work and raise a family.

But as Dallas grows, so does our need for affordability. Too many of our neighbors are being priced out of their homes because of rising rents and unsustainable property taxes.

Once elected, Hosanna will fight for property tax relief as a vital and necessary component of the city's housing policy. She will also fight for sustainable and affordable development in the district so that we can add to the value of our district, attract small business growth, and prevent displacement.

District 11 can be a role model for the city when it comes to affordability. All we need is the political will to ensure that Dallas is a city for Dallasites, not luxury development that continues to push out our neighbors and adds to the city's rising homelessness numbers.

* Infrastructure + Transportation

As our city continues to grow, so does our need for efficient public transportation. Studies have proven that increasing public transportation access leads to more efficient cities, sustainable development, property tax relief, and affordability. We must pursue creative solutions to meet the challenges posed by our transportation needs head-on without missing opportunities to make broader investments in our communities.

On Council, Hosanna will fight for heavy investments in our streets and infrastructure, including bike lanes, sidewalks, and urban planning which prioritizes walkability. She will also be a strong advocate for increasing public transportation within the city core, which has not gotten its fair share of investment as DART services continue to expand outward into the metroplex.

We know we can have a city that is safe and encourages connection between our neighborhoods. Hosanna will fight for comprehensive plans that prioritize the bread and butter of our city rather than the wasteful big ticket projects that do not add value to our neighborhoods.

* Community Budgeting

City Hall's decisions on our budget directly affect every Dallasite. It is important that residents have the power and ability to make active decisions in how our taxpayer money is being spent and that every resident should be empowered with enough information to make those decisions.

On Council, Hosanna will work to create a participatory budgeting process that will allow every District 11 resident the opportunity to have a direct say in how our tax money is being spent in our district. She will prioritize neighborhood led initiatives and will work with community members to get input on budgetary decisions.

* Sustainability

Climate change poses a vital threat to all Dallasites. As a member of the Dallas City Council, Hosanna will work to push innovative and neighborhood led sustainability measures that will increase the livability of our City and center sustainable practices as an integral part of all city wide comprehensive plans going forward.

​Hosanna will work to invest heavily into public transportation and green infrastructure including complete green streets, urban green spaces and dedicated bus routes that will ease traffic. She will demand accountability from the city and our partners to ensure that we do not experience another Shingle Mountain or any other polluting practices that pose a threat to our community’s health, and will work to ensure that the City is meeting the necessary requirements within its climate action plan to transition to a fully green economy that will bring along good jobs and increase the value of our neighborhoods. [21]

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—Hosanna Yemiru’s campaign website (2021)[31]

### District 13[edit]

####  Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Boulanger-Chatman’s campaign website stated the following:

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* Working For Diversity And Community

Hi, I’m Da’On Boulanger-Chatman, and I’m running for Dallas City Council District 13.

As a native Dallasite and teacher, I know the power of a hardworking and diverse group of people. As an educator, I bring the experience of working with varied communities, age groups, and socioeconomic levels. My practical and solution-based decision-making will be essential to continuing the positive movement of Dallas.

My plans include affordable housing for ALL Dallas citizens, community safety, criminal justice reform, and continuing effective programs that provide support and transparency to the public.

Continuing projects and initiatives like the OKR Plan and reviews of all money allotted and withheld to mandated city programs will help facilitate positive growth. I hope that with your support I can be elected as your representative for Dallas City Council District 13.

* Community Safety

I believe in keeping our children and community safe, and part of doing that includes adopting all CDC COVID-19 guidelines to improve and maintain community health. A key part in promoting those practices can come from our local government echoing the facts and procedures that keep our communities safe, healthy, and productive.

The Dallas City Council must also address panhandling and mental health awareness in order to improve public safety in our communities, especially along the US 75 corridor. This is a dangerous situation, and our city needs to focus on finding effective solutions for dealing with the often twin issues of mental health and homelessness in order to make sure all residents feel safe and comfortable in their neighborhoods.

* Affordable Housing

You’ve probably noticed that the housing market for both renting and homeownership is often too expensive for middle-class Dallasites to afford. Many of our neighbors are moving to surrounding cities and commuting in for their work and daily business in order to live more comfortable lives.

As your elected City Council Member for District 13, I will work to make life more affordable for ALL Dallas citizens.

* Criminal Justice Policy Reform

Much of the distrust of black residents stems from a lack of accountability and transparency and unfair treatment due to race and ethnicity. I want to maintain an atmosphere of open dialogue through policy and committees to allow the citizens of District 13 to have a voice and ensure their concerns are heard.

As a city councilman, I will demand accountability and transparency from law enforcement, through projects like New Directions for Public Safety and Positive Change created by the Dallas City Council, whose goal is to produce alternatives to armed police response and provide more opportunity for other types of intervention, like sending out caseworkers and psychiatrists to help officers mitigate situations before they can escalate. [21]

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—Da-On Boulanger-Chatman’s campaign website (2021)[32]

#### Candidate Connections[edit]

#### Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Da'On Boulanger‐Chatman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Boulanger‐Chatman's responses.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a proud Dallas native who grew up in the southern suburb of Oak Cliff. I graduated from Booker T. Washington HSPVA. I then went on to study choral conducting and music education at Stephen F. Austin State University. While at SFA, I was able to participate in several community enriched performances, at home in the U.S. and abroad in the churches and beautiful countries in Europe. After receiving my Bachelor of Music Education and Master of Music in Choral Conducting, I quickly made my way back home to Dallas. I teach choir and music studies at Lakeview Centennial High where I am the Director of Choirs and Department Chair for the Visual and Performing Arts on my campus. Outside of my teaching post, I enjoy spending my free time singing in various Dallas based choral communities like the Dallas Symphony Chorus and various churches in the North Dallas Area. I am dedicated to using my time and influence for positive change around me. I know that my decisions at the local level affect the everyday lives of those around me. Most of all, are those people of color who will even greater feel the weight of my community based decisions because it is they who are at the lower extremes of socioeconomic status. As a Dallas City Official, I understand that it is my decisions in the ways of policy making, budget allotment and cuts, and data analysis that influence the very basic modes of our communities' way of life.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

* I believe in keeping our children and community safe. It is important that our vast city adopt all CDC COVID-19 guidelines for best safety practices. It is imperative that our local government echo the facts and procedures to help keep our communities safe and productive. In keeping with this sentiment, Dallas City Council must also address pan-handling and mental health awareness. Many Dallas residents have noticed an uptick in tents and make-shift living arrangements growing around the US 75 highway. This is a dangerous situation. It is time for the city council to weigh in and give some guidance on the matter.
* As I have lived in our community, I’ve noticed that housing in our great city is not indeed great. If you have noticed a problem like me, you have noticed that the housing market both for renting and homeownership is too expensive for middle-class Dallasites to afford. I have heard from our neighborhoods that many move to surrounding cities immediately outside of Dallas and commute in for their work and daily business. This is unacceptable. As your elected City Council Member for District 13, I want to champion this issue for us. We can make this work. We must simply work together. If elected, I will advance this issue until we get the answers we seek or the affordable housing we deserve.
* I will endeavor in my role in the City Council to create policy and committees that specifically demand accountability and transparency, like the New Directions for Public Safety and Positive Change created by the Dallas City Council along with city managers and community leaders. This group’s goal was to produce alternatives to armed police response and provide more opportunity for other types of intervention like sending out a caseworker and psychiatrist to help an officer mitigate situations with the best and most proper tools.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Looking over the Commissioners Court Administration Office of Budget and Evaluation Report for 2020, I found some very good work being carried out by our city council. I would go even further by aiming to bring this same success to committees like the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee or the Workforce, Education, and Equity Committee. I would like to use practical measures like meeting by department to determine specific challenges and create real solutions, in the same way the members of the Economic Development Committee and Government Performance and Financial Management Committees did to garner project completion under budget and without raising taxes. I am a teacher and I am well versed in the education, and equity needs of our community. I work closely with our community everyday. I can say with solid confidence that my experience and perspective as a middle-class citizen and teacher will bring great insight to the council in terms of what is important to the community. I am not a rich millionaire and know what it feels like to struggle. Therefore, you can trust that my approach to every decision and policy will be shaped with my constituents in mind.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I was in ninth grade when 9/11 happened. I remember being in choir, and our teacher stopping class to turn on the news. I can still remember how surreal that moment was.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Prelude in G Minor by Rachmaninoff

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

The Dallas City Council is the highest legislative body for Dallas. However, many of its residents do not participate in the municipal elections. I want everyone who reads this to know that this is the legislative body that effects our day-to-day lives. We must be more involved in electing those who will serve on that council to be sure we are electing officials who will do the job right and with the constituents in mind.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Because this office is so closely connected with the community, I don't believe previous government or political experience is needed. What I do think is needed is the evident passion to be an advocate for the community and those in it and the skillset to work with divers people towards a shared goal.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

Being a teacher, I have learned how to work with a diverse population. I understand people and how to make them successful. I am fortunate because my career keeps me constantly exposed and working with the people of our community. Working with people is a passion of mine, and teaching has only honed my skills of people dynamics, goal orientation, and success definition to make me qualified for the challenges of city office. It is this experience that makes what I do unique. It is the vast experience of working with varied types of people to achieve a common goal; it is the instilling of a vision toward self-improvement that makes me very good at what I do and uniquely qualified beyond my competitors to become the next city councilman for District 13.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

####  Leland Burk[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Burk’s campaign website stated the following:

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* A taxpayer’s perspective.

A strong fiscal conservative, Leland will bring a taxpayer’s perspective to City Hall. He’ll hold the line on taxes and focus our budget on basic services that impact our quality of life. And, he’ll fight against wasteful spending and look for smart ways to get taxpayers more for their tax dollars.

* Public safety.

A strong ally of our police who’s served as a volunteer leader for Safer Dallas Better Dallas, Leland will be an outspoken advocate for public safety. He’ll lead to fully fund police and look for ways to invest in innovative, research-backed community-based policing strategies that keep us safe and address root causes of crime.

* Quality of life.

Leland understands that great basic services elevate our everyday quality of life and serve our citizens, and they also attract quality growth. As our councilmember, Leland will make focusing on basics a priority, leading for investment in public safety, streets, alleys, parks and greenspaces that impact our daily quality of life.

* Smart economic growth.

With experience shepherding his own real estate and finance businesses through difficult economies, Leland has a keen understanding of our economy and how to promote growth. As our councilmember, he’ll use his experience to guide us through challenging budgets, while protecting key services that will enhance our quality of life and help attract new opportunities to Dallas.

* Strong leadership.

An engaged civic and non-profit leader who’s led and served on several boards that impact our community and our city, Leland believes that collaboration and consensus are not only keys to strong leadership, but they are also critical to building confidence and trust with taxpayers and citizens. As our councilmember, he will work to create strong lines of communication, build consensus, and be a leader for smart policy on Council. [21]

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—Leland Burk’s campaign website (2021)[33]

####  Gay Donnell Willis[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Willis' campaign website stated the following:

“  |

Even in a bustling city like Dallas, residents want peace-of-mind when it comes to their everyday life. After all, at the end of the day, we return to the core of our lives, our family, our homes, and our neighborhoods—and it should be safe and clean, and our City a place to be proud of. That’s why I start with…

Neighborhoods First!

* Protect Our Neighborhoods

Public safety and security is the cornerstone of our quality of life. I helped launch the Schreiber Extended Patrol in 2019, and value the service of those who protect us. Building our police and fire departments to where they should be and giving them the tools and training to keep us all safe is my top priority. Keeping officer pay in line with suburban counterparts, ensuring timely roll out of staffing recommendations to get more sworn officers into the community, and community policing practices that reduce violent crime are practices I’ll fight for.

* Fix Streets, Alleys, and Sidewalks

Streets, alleys, and sidewalks that meet the expectation of what you and I as taxpayers deserve—and I have the follow-through to make it happen. Our 2017 bond rollout for these improvements had fallen behind even before COVID-19. I’ll keep my foot on the gas to get these enhancements on track. There are inequities that exist from street-to-street and neighborhood-to-neighborhood in our district, and I am already gauging how to sensibly resolve this.

* Grow the Tax Base, Don’t Raise Taxes

Growing our tax base by accelerating the overdue improvements needed to unclog our commercial and residential permitting processes is a top issue for me. I will work tenaciously to resolve the backlog and technology issues that hamper smart development. Slowing down Dallas’ entrepreneurial spirit deprives us all of revenue generation that funds city programs and services we want and need. It is not how the 9th largest city in America should operate, and I will absolutely focus on resolving these critical needs.

* Smart Development Includes Neighborhood Input

Smart development that looks beyond property boundaries to know the impact of a project on those who live around it, and factors in the needs of our city with regard to landscape, mobility and our overall environment is development I can support. Neighbors want to be heard, and should be heard—with timely notifications of when and where they can share their perspective. I will champion communications between neighbors, the city and developers to ensure smart progress.

* Create better ‘Liveability’ in Dallas. Arts, Parks, Libraries, and Recreation!

Liveable cities support the quality of life of its’ citizens. I am dedicated to improving and expanding our parks and urban spaces, transportation networks including DART rail and buses, but also bike and walking trails, and equitable access to recreational, cultural, and community facilities. As a Friends of the Dallas Public Library Board member, I saw first-hand the critical role libraries play in so many lives. I am committed to these goals and will continue to improve the quality of life for all our citizens.

* Action on Homelessness

Besides the humanity of this issue, the resources required to address it are staggering. Collaboration to solve this concern requires representation from health and mental health, housing, education, workforce, and law enforcement. As a volunteer counselor at Interfaith Housing Coalition, I worked with single parents transitioning to stable employment and housing from homelessness. Through my appointment by Council member Gates to the Community Development Commission, I have seen how the HUD grants the city receives can assist in securing housing for low to moderate-income citizens. I support the work of the Continuum of Care Council of non-profits and will work to ensure meaningful collaboration with the City’s Office of Homeless Solutions.

* Better Prepare for Emergencies

Our community has shown great fortitude and came together during the COVID pandemic and the bitter cold snowstorm. Neighbors drove elderly neighbors to get their shots or went to the store to get critical supplies of food and water. That’s what a great community does! But our city and county governments need to be equally prepared and they could have done a better job. I will work with my fellow council members to review and update emergency preparedness for the new kinds of disasters we may face, so we can take immediate action in a crisis. [21]

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—Gay Donnell Willis' campaign website (2021)[34]

####  Ryan Moore[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Moore’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* Tax-Based Redevelopment Strategies – Marsh/Walnut Hill

Projects like the Shops at Park Lane in Vickery Meadow have shown how thoughtful partnerships between the city, business community, and neighborhood leaders can transform parts of our district. While continued discussions about the future of Preston Center will undoubtedly continue, we must simultaneously pursue other fantastic opportunities to foster development such as the intersection of Marsh and Walnut Hill. With the right leadership, we can create and implement a vision for these areas that primarily reflects the needs and desires of the surrounding neighborhoods, while also providing housing and employment opportunities that will re-energize areas of the district that are not maximizing their potential.

* Budget & Tax Reform

While the City’s economic performance has understandably been impacted by COVID-19, revenue for fiscal year ’19-’20 fell short by approximately $40 million, and revenues are expected to decline in the current year from sales tax, franchise tax, and fines/forfeitures. However, overall, the current year’s budget has increased slightly by 0.5% over last year’s adopted budget, and steady growth is expected over the next 5 years.

Generally, I will advocate for a dedicated pursuit of development opportunities to expand the property tax base in an effort to compensate for future unforeseen events like we have recently experienced. I will also encourage the Council to return to our department budgets with a more critical eye and correct for potential inefficiencies instead of continuing to proportionally increase current expense items on an annual basis. Identifying opportunities to maximize the impact of our tax dollars will provide us far more flexibility in the event that cuts must be made so that residents will not be faced with increased tax bills in the midst of an economic downturn.

Rising property tax bills in Dallas are a major cause for concern. Property values are disproportionately rising as compared to resident incomes and the resulting property taxes owed have the potential of pricing residents out of their homes. A basic commitment to “lower taxes” lacks the creativity and tax-focused solutions that we need to realize long-term solutions for homeowners. Texas is the largest economy in the world without an income tax, yet our property tax system has not adapted to the needs of our cities and their residents. I am excited about the opportunity to work with our state representatives to reform our property tax regime so that local governments can have more flexibility to provide relief to property owners in times of unprecedented crisis without sacrificing the much-needed funds we use to keep our essential services and public safety resources intact.

* Communication Is Key

Representing all of District 13 requires that all residents be informed and given the opportunity to provide feedback. The current outreach efforts from City Hall have not reached all corners of our community. Whether we need to introduce a new method of sharing information or make a greater effort to enroll residents in existing programs, I am dedicated to connecting the people of District 13 to City Hall in order to increase awareness of the Council’s business and engage residents in the process. Our many city departments and offices have separate strategies of sharing their available services and important updates, but the job of our next councilmember is to make all of that information as accessible as possible.

(For example, did you know that the Dallas Public Library is out there tweeting up a storm? Check them out! @dallaslibrary)

* Advanced Services

We need to focus on efficiently and intelligently carrying out street and sidewalk improvement projects. We have projects funded from the 2017 Bond Program that have yet to even begin and others that have construction timelines slated for up to 2 full years just to reconstruct a small street.

Any time that a solution is causing more disruption than the original problem, we have failed to deliver on our promise to increase the quality of life of our residents. We need (i) data driven scheduling to maximize efficiency and (ii) to intelligently carry out projects so that we can maximize the results. For example, in the east of our district on Northwest Highway near Skillman, a guardrail was recently repaired and if only 10 more inches of concrete were laid, we could have had a new sidewalk connecting an isolated cul-de-sac neighborhood to shops and restaurants nearby. As we tackle the task of improving our transportation technology and strategic mobility plans, we must keep in mind how to improve pedestrian safety and such easy adjustments to current projects, like connecting neighborhoods with a short sidewalk, are the key to making progress.

* Comprehensive Safety Strategy

District 13 concerns vary by neighborhood with no one-size-fits-all solution.

In the center of District 13, petty crimes including car break-ins, vandalism, and package theft remain prevalent. Neighborhood crime watch groups and efforts to encourage residents to lock cars and remove valuables have lessened the amount of incidents.

Neighborhoods east of highway 75 within the Public Improvement District (PID) have been combating severe violent crime including murder, rape, aggravated assaults and robbery. The PID has invested in initiatives such as the Midtown Code Red 311 program to stay vigilant about code and regulatory compliance to create a cleaner and safer neighborhood. Also, the Midtown Blues program is a $225,000 annual investment by the PID to provide private security to supplement and support the Dallas PD, which has lowered crime by 75% since the inception of the PID.

For those in the west of the district, quality of life is uniquely diminished by the sounds of nearby gunshots that are increasing with frequency. We need to be working with our counterparts in District 6 to jointly develop solutions with the same effort and urgency that we would put forth if a problem arose in the middle of our District.

Our public safety solutions must be comprehensive. We must strategically fund our police to ensure that we can hire, train, and retain neighborhood patrol officers to reduce criminal activity and also incorporate a more holistic approach to our strategy. Affordable housing is a public safety issue. Redeveloping abandoned and dilapidated properties to create job opportunities, well-lit areas, neighborhood-centric green spaces, and increased foot traffic is a public safety issue. Improving our transportation infrastructure so that neighborhoods don’t fall into decline as their streets and sidewalks fall into disrepair is a public safety issue. Only when we seriously address the root causes of crime will we see the results our residents expect.

* Transformational Leadership

District 13 needs a leader with a fresh perspective to solving the problems we face instead of having someone simply step into the shoes of our current councilmember only to maintain the status quo.

I was not born and raised in this district like some of the candidates in this race, and because of that, I am not committed to the same vision and policy priorities that have been pursued by our councilmembers for the past 20+ years. My experience has prepared me to invest in new ideas and welcome innovative approaches to problem-solving so that we can not only bring more positive change to our District, but we can also create a more positive, collaborative environment at City Hall that will pay dividends all over our city for years to come.

In addition, my tax background will be a welcome respite from the development-centric agenda pursued by our representatives. I know how to spearhead our redevelopment strategies, and I have a studied plan to work with our state representatives to reform our property tax regime so that local governments can have more flexibility to provide relief to property owners in times of unprecedented crisis.

* Homelessness

Importantly, the 2017 Bond Program provided $20 million to fund housing facilities for the homeless. Almost all of these funds are still unissued. The Housing and Homelessness Solutions Committee must work with the Office of Homeless Solutions and advisory bodies (e.g., Citizen Homelessness Commission) to finalize project plans and commit these funds toward their implementation.

Further, ongoing collaboration with local organizations will also allow us to expand homeless services. These initiatives include: the rapid rehousing program with Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance; expanding shelter capacity with the Bridge Homeless Recovery Center; and providing housing and support services to help families regain self-sufficiency with City Square and Family Gateway.

We also need NEW ideas – I believe that we need to reimagine abandoned and functional property into temporary housing solutions for those without shelter. For example, Dawson State Jail is a facility on Commerce Street downtown that has been vacant since 2013. It is now owned by the Trinity Park Conservancy which is a missed opportunity because it was a government property with the ability to house, feed, and medically treat individuals in need. Vickery Midtown has adopted this vision as well and has been advocating for reimagining the former fire station into a homeless processing center to account for those experiencing homelessness and connect them to helpful resources. Only with a new perspective can we capture these otherwise overlooked opportunities.

* Workforce Development

The City currently provides a platform to promote opportunities to both job seekers and employers. With agency partners, Workforce Solutions of Greater Dallas and the Texas Workforce Commission, we provide information and direct individuals/business to helpful resources beyond job search assistance, such as connecting working parents to childcare and guiding young adults through career planning.

With DISD and DCCCD as additional partners, individuals can find adult education and literacy classes and other programs tailored to provide the skills and training necessary to qualify for the next great opportunity.

By ensuring that online job listings are up-to-date and by facilitating an applicant’s submission directly to employers, the City can play an integral part in workforce development. Providing these resources allows employers to trust that investing in and hiring from our workforce will result in talented employees, thereby establishing long-lasting relationships between employers and the City of Dallas that will create reliable opportunities for our residents looking for work. [21]

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—Ryan Moore’s campaign website (2021)[35]

#### Candidate Connections[edit]

#### Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Ryan Moore completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Moore's responses.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As a North Texas kid, I first knew Dallas as the big city with Mavs and Stars games, concerts at the Meyerson, and Santa’s annual visit to NorthPark. Once I moved to the Hilltop, I became a lifelong SMU Mustang, and Dallas became my home. While studying at SMU, I worked at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Preston Center, caught midnight movies in Inwood Village and enjoyed the occasional breakfast at the Original House of Pancakes – a stone’s throw from where I would settle into my first house almost a decade later. In the meantime, I attended law school in Los Angeles and specialized in tax law in New York City. I returned to California to kick-start my career (and pick-up my canine sidekick, Saxon), and spent over a year in Singapore where I learned the value of embracing the unexpected and also how much I was ready to come back home. My time away provided constant confirmation of my long-held belief that Dallas is truly a world-class city. Each new location either highlighted the many ways that Dallas is already a world leader or sparked ideas for the opportunities that Dallas can seize as we continue to develop our global reputation. Upon returning to Dallas in 2018, I couldn’t help but think that all of these experiences equipped me with the unique perspective needed to help shape the future of our great city. I am thrilled to be back in Dallas and to have the opportunity to contribute to our community. I am equally thankful for the long and winding journey

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

* Comprehensive Public Safety Strategy
* Tax-Centric Approach to Development and Homeowner Relief
* Fresh Perspective on District - Focus on Neighborhoods West of Marsh Lane and East of Highway 75

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The best leaders keep their ears and minds opens. District 13 needs a leader with a fresh perspective to solving the problems we face instead of having someone simply step into the shoes of our current councilmember only to maintain the status quo. I was not born and raised in this district like some of the candidates in this race, and because of that, I am not committed to the same vision and policy priorities that have been pursued by our councilmembers for the past 20+ years. My experience has prepared me to invest in new ideas and welcome innovative approaches to problem-solving so that we can not only bring more positive change to our District, but we can also create a more positive, collaborative environment at City Hall that will pay dividends all over our city for years to come. In addition, my tax background will be a welcome respite from the development-centric agenda pursued by our representatives. I know how to spearhead our redevelopment strategies, and I have a studied plan to work with our state representatives to reform our property tax regime so that local governments can have more flexibility to provide relief to property owners in times of unprecedented crisis.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

####  Mac Smith[edit]

##### Campaign website[edit]

Smith’s campaign website stated the following:

“  |

* WE ARE OVERTAXED

For the last ten years, at least, Dallas City property taxes have been rising about twice as fast as our incomes. Rents are rising and people are being taxed out of their homes.

Property tax valuations have been rising at 7% per year for at least 10 years while incomes rose at 3%. Instead of rolling back the tax rate, the City of Dallas has just collected the money and found new ways to spend it. The result is that the Dallas tax rate is 77.6 cents per hundred dollars of valuation while Houston and San Antonio are at around 56 cents. The Houston city charter limits spending growth to the rate of population increase plus the rate of inflation to keep the city budget from outstripping the taxpayer’s budgets. We need that provision in the Dallas city charter. We also need to freeze property tax revenue at 2020 levels for the next several years until our tax rates are in line with other major Texas cities. That would require a 2% reduction in this year’s proposed budget and a rollback to 74.6 cents. We need to put the City of Dallas on a diet. The required reduction in force can be accomplished by attrition.

* CRIME IS RISING

The buzzword today is “21 Century Policing”. What we know about “21st Century Policing” is that it doesn’t work. Murder rates in Dallas have doubled since the low point in 2014. That has been the general experience in big cities all over the country. The minority communities it was intended to help have suffered the most from it. In Dallas alone, the cost is an extra 140 lives a year, most of them minority. We need to keep whatever good may have come from it and go back to 20th century policing.

In a plea to defund the police, County Judge Clay Jenkins made the statement, “the police are still killing us.”. Many believe that. Let’s look at the facts. In 2019, Dallas police officers fired their weapons a total of 11 times. Think about that. Out of over three thousand officers, over the course of an entire year, only eleven fired their weapons. In 2020, only four officers fired their weapons. One person was killed. Is what Judge Jenkins said true? Are the police still killing us? Contrast those numbers with the 254 murders in 2020, and ask yourself: Is the problem police brutality, or criminal brutality? Would we be better off with fewer police; or, with more police?

This shameful rhetoric demoralizes the police, makes minorities afraid to call the police, discourages minorities from joining the police force and emboldens the criminals. The Dallas City Council should present the truth and stand up for the police department.

Two years ago, every council member ran on a promise to increase the number of police officers. Last year, the wind shifted and a number of them supported defunding the police.

If elected, I will work to RE-fund the police. We need an additional 500 officers to bring us back to 2014 staffing levels. With these extra officers, I expect the police to be pro-active and not re-active. Two summers ago, the DPS sent 15 officers into South Dallas because there had been 40 murders in a month. They were there for two months, arrested felons, took illegal guns off the street and drove down the murder rate. That is pro-active policing. Preventing crime instead of just investigating it. The police need to put a stop to street racing. It’s not that hard, but it won’t stop if we just ignore it. Eight police cars and sixteen officers could block all the streets at the intersection, ticket all the bystanders blocking the street, arrest the drivers and tow the cars. If they did that every time someone advertised a street race, they would soon stop. The tickets should pay for the operation. The police need to confront the homeless when they trespass, are publicly intoxicated, shoplift or create a public nuisance. (See What to do about the Homeless in another blog. ). The police also need to have a better plan for dealing with riots. Standing by and watching is not the answer. They need a system so that people that loot and destroy property can expect to be either arrested at the scene or photographed and arrested later.

* WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE HOMELESS

People who are temporarily homeless because of divorce, loss of job, injury, etc. need temporary housing until they regain their footing. Private sources exist for this purpose. The City’s role should be to connect them to the resources. That would be a good job for the Office of Community Care. They need quick help and the City does not usually act in a timely manner.

Homeless encampments are another matter. Seattle allowed homeless encampments to flourish. It has not turned out well. Google “Seattle is Dying” and watch the video if you don’t know what I mean.

There are many people who believe that we should help the hard-core, drug and alcohol addicted homeless to be more comfortable while they continue to destroy themselves. This is wrong. It enables them to continue their downward path and it entices others into the lifestyle. It is no accident that the Office of Homeless Solutions has a $12 million dollar a year budget and the number of homeless people increases every year.

The hard-core homeless need an intervention. The simple way to do that is to arrest them when they trespass, or steal, openly use drugs, etc. Sentence them to two weeks in jail. While they are in jail, the television plays motivational videos and life histories of people who once were homeless and got out of the lifestyle. At the end of two weeks, give them a shower, a shave, a haircut and new clothes from the Salvation Army thrift store and buy them a month’s stay at a shelter. Every morning, vans from the local day labor companies pull up and offer them a chance to work. If they want to get out they can. If not, you do it again the next time they violate the law.

At worst, they have a better bed and better food than they had at the camp. They just have to face the annoyance of getting sober and watching motivational videos. At best, they go to work and provide for themselves, like the rest of us. The solution to homelessness is to get people out of the lifestyle; not to make them more comfortable while they are in it.

For those still in camp, two cops and a drug sniffing dog should walk through the camp every day at random times.

* WHAT DO WE GET FOR OUR MONEY

The City budget document is over 700 pages long. There is a lot of information about goals and targets, but not much about whether targets are met, the value of what is accomplished and how the cost compares to other cities. I will press the city manager to provide a clear definition of what is to be accomplished, metrics to define success and to provide a report based on those metrics. Look at the Dallas budget for 2015-2016, or the Houston budget and you will see what I mean. I will press for a zero base budget for about 20% of the spending each year. That way, each department gets a thorough review and has to justify it's existence about once every five years.

* IF WE ARE GOING TO CUT TAXES, WE WILL HAVE TO CUT SPENDING.

If we are going to cut our taxes, we have to cut our budget. If we are going to increase funding for the police, we have to take it from somewhere else. The new council takes office on June 14. The new budget is approved in September. I will use that time to review the budget, ask hard questions and recommend items to cut. Government bureaucracies do not cut their budgets unless someone applies pressure. I am willing to apply the pressure. It will not be a quick fix. But, I believe that we can freeze spending and any required reductions in staff can be taken care of by attrition without undue hardship to city personnel. If we freeze spending, increases in property valuations will eventually bring us into line with the tax rate of other major Texas cities. We do not have to cut basic services to freeze spending. Other cities provide basic services with much lower tax rates. So can we.

We will have to re-align spending to find more money for the police. If elected, I will compare the 2015 budget when we had 3500 police officers with the current budget where we have 3000 to find what has been added to spend the money we saved on the 500 officers we cut. That will be ther first place to look for savings; but, every item will be under scruitny.

* THE CITY’S ROLE IN ALLEVIATING POVERTY

Low income families tend to concentrate in the central city because of older housing stocks, lower rents and more jobs employing unskilled labor.

Because of this concentration, the cost of alleviating poverty is too great for the central city, in this case Dallas, to bear.

In order to spread the burden, welfare efforts are, rightly, the province of the state and federal government. Otherwise, people who live in the suburbs will not bear their fair share and Dallas residents will be overburdened.

* WHAT CAN THE CITY DO

I. The Dallas Housing Authority administers public housing and rent subsidies. It is not part of city government but the City of Dallas appoints the governing board. The city can appoint board members who are knowledgeable and diligent to ensure that the program is administered fairly, that maximum results are obtained for each dollar spent and that all available state and federal aid is secured.

II. There are many welfare programs available to help low income families. Unfortunately, finding the sources of welfare is complicated and low income people are often ill equipped to find them. The City should have a department in the Office of Community Care with a staff devoted to helping our citizens take maximum advantage of available aid programs.

III. The city staff should ensure that the City takes maximum advantage of any grants, public or private, that are available to affordable housing or other poverty programs are secured and effectively spent.

IV. Public works money should be distributed equally across the City on a per capita basis. The council person in each district should guide, but not direct, the spending of public works money in his/her district.

V. Affordable housing is disappearing as older homes are razed and newer, more expensive ones are built on the lot. The City should begin planning and zoning for multi-family housing to provide for people who are displaced. Improvements to streets and utilities will likely be required to accommodate the higher densities and availability of public transportation should be considered.

VI. Enterprise Zones provide a unique opportunity to create relatively unskilled jobs in areas that sorely need them. The City can aid in this effort by offering a property tax rebate to the extent that companies that locate in these Enterprise Zones use the money to train their employees. The training and new jobs will increase incomes and make what was once unaffordable housing affordable.

* WHAT ABOUT CORRUPTION

Over the past years, we have seen several council members go to prison because of corruption. Why is it happening and what can we do about it?

One way is to take politics out of the money. When the award of grants or subsidies (free stuff) is subject to the whim of a council member, there is a temptation to offer the council member something to secure the free stuff. What is the alternative? There is a process for awarding design-build projects where, because of leeway for innovation by the bidders, an apples-to-apples comparison of the bids cannot be made. A committee is established to evaluate the bids on the basis of defined criteria (cost being a major consideration) and select the best value for the city. A similar process should be followed anytime the city awards a grant or a subsidy. I will work to endure that grants and subsidies are awarded on the basis of best value for the citizens and are guided by, but not subject to, the wishes of a council member.

The other way is to take the money out of politics. The typical council district has around 50,000 voters. It costs a great deal of money to reach that many voters. However, it doesn’t cost much for a voter to reach a candidate. You have done that by visiting this website. Encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same. You can reach out to a candidate for a lot less than it costs a candidate to reach out to you; and, you will get a lot more useful information from a website than a push card or a TV ad. If voters will do that, there will be no need for a candidate to raise a huge amount of money to run for public office.

That said, it costs something just to reach out to voters and make them aware that a candidate has a website. [21]

|  ”

|
|

—Mac Smith’s campaign website (2021)[36]

#### Candidate Connections[edit]

#### Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Mac Smith completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Smith's responses.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a licensed professional engineerl I earned a BS in Civil Engineering and a PhD in Environmental Health Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. I managed my own construction business in Dallas for 20 years. I managed multi-million dollar construction projects for Dallas Area Rapid transit for another 20 years. My first project with DART was the Downtown Bus Transfer Centers, my largest was the $400 million plus Green Line from Buckner Station to Mockingbird Lane. My last major project was the construction of the Orange Line from Beltline Road into DFW Airport. I have been married 53 years and lived in Dallas for 47 years. I have not run for office before. I have no close friends at City hall. I owe no favors. I bring fresh eyes and a skeptical mind to the City's problems. 45% of the City budget is related to public works. I bring special expertise to that area. My construction experience has made me alert to opportunities to cut cost. I have managed multi-million dollar construction projects. I am no stranger to large and complicated budgets. I am an engineer. I look for cost effective solutions, I dig out the facts, I do the math. visit my website: www.macsmith413.com to learn more.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

* We are overtaxed. The City of Dallas property tax rate of 77 cents per $100 valuation is 37% higher than the tax rate in Houston and San Antonio. I will work to roll back the tax rate and freeze property tax revenue until we are in line with Houston and San Antonio.

* The number of police officers in Dallas has declined from 3553 to 3043 in the last six years while the murder rate has more than doubled. Some on the council want to defund the police. We need to defund other parts of the budget and increase funding for police. We need added officers for a "surge" on crime hotspots similar to the DPS effort two summers ago. We also need to increase narcotics enforcement. Drug overdoses claim several times as many lives as murders each year.
* Homeless encampments are springing up all over the city. If that is allowed to go unchecked we will end up like Seattle. Google "Seattle is Dying" and watch the video if you don't know what I mean. We need to help people who have been made temporarily homeless by circumstance (divorce, loss of jobs, etc.) but our efforts toward the hardcore homeless should be directed toward restoing them to work and sobriety. We do not need to spend money to make the hard-core homeless more comfortable. We need to show them a way out and ensure that they take it.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am an engineer by profession. 45% of the City budget is spent on public works. I want to be sure that it is well spent and that we get quality work. Congress is poised to pass a massive infrastructure spending bill. I want to be sure we get out fair share.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The Dallas City Council directs the expenditure of almost four billion dollars of public money and influences the lives of over a million people.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I am 76 years old. At this stage of my life the question should be "Whose example have you followed?" I have tried to follow the example of my father and my grandfather. Hopefully, I have taken the best from both of them. My grandfather was a south texas farmer and rancher. He was honest, hard working and God fearing. Compassionate and generous to a fault. My father was a civil engineer and a contractor. He too was honest and hard working. He was both brilliant and practical. Both of them believed in the virtue of hard work. Both of the worked hard to ensure that their children had a better life than they did.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The Bible would be a good start. It shapes a good deal of my thinking. followed by the Constituion and the Declaration of Independence.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, integrity and integrity. After that comes the principle that you represent all your constituents and not just a select group. Goverment has to be a good deal for everyone.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Education and experience. I am an engineer. I solve problems, I look for cost effective solutions. I dig out the facts, I do the math.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

1\. Ensure that government is no bigger than it needs to be. 2\. Ensure that everyone is heard and represented. 3\. Ensure that every dollar is well spent and that the people get good value for their money.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Such as it is, I have probably already left it. I would like to be remembered as someone who was always constructive.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Hawaii and Alaska were admitted to statehood. The stars on the flag changed from the old 6 by 8 rectangular pattern to the current one. I would have been about 15 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I worked as a construction laborer one summer during my sophmore year of college, paving Greenville Avenue from Spring Valley to Arapahoe. It lasted three months. My first job after college was as the plant environmental engineer for the Rohm and Haas Co. in Houston, Texas.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

My life has been remarkably free from struggles. Maybe I have always been lucky. But they say that the harder you work, the luckier you get.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Members of the council appoint members of various boards and commissions that study and make recommendations to the council. Members of the council essentially control the zoning issues in their district. Members of the council have a great deal of say over who gets grant money in their district.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes and no. It is good to know how the process works. However, the more you ave been involved, the more friends you have and the more favors you owe. People involved in government also begin to think that government is the solution for all our problems. That is generally not the case. But, when you are a hammer, everything begins to look like a nail.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

It is important to be able to compromise and get people to work together. It is important to be able to understand budgets and finance. You need, at least, a working knowledge of the law to know what is posssible. You need a willingness to listen.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Will Rogers said, "People say I make jokes about politicians. That's not true. I just observe and report the facts." He also said, "Some people learn from reading books. Others from observing other people. But, some just have to go out and pee on the electric fence and see for themselves." There is a lot of truth told in jokes.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

## Election history[edit]

### 2019[edit]

### District 1[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 1

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Chad West (Nonpartisan)  |

54.5

| 3,253

| Giovanni Valderas (Nonpartisan)  |

34.7

| 2,070

| Sylvana Alonzo (Nonpartisan)  |

9.0

| 535

| Jeremy Boss (Nonpartisan)  |

1.8

| 107

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 5,965

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 2[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 2

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam Medrano (Nonpartisan)  |

76.4

| 2,460

| Barbara Coombs (Nonpartisan) |

16.6

| 534

| Paul Freeman (Nonpartisan)  |

7.1

| 228

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 3,222

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 3[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 3

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Casey Thomas II (Nonpartisan)  |

69.3

| 3,030

| Charletta Rogers Compton (Nonpartisan)  |

9.5

| 417

| Denise Benavides (Nonpartisan)  |

8.4

| 368

| Britannica Scott (Nonpartisan)  |

7.0

| 308

| Davante Peters (Nonpartisan)  |

5.7

| 248

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 4,371

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 4[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 4

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

52.7

| 2,008

| Dawn Blair (Nonpartisan)  |

47.3

| 1,803

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 3,811

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 4

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

46.1

| 1,748
✔ |

| Dawn Blair (Nonpartisan)  |

22.2

| 841

| Karon Flewellen (Nonpartisan)  |

15.8

| 598

| Keyaira Saunders (Nonpartisan)  |

13.7

| 521

| Asa Woodberry (Nonpartisan)  |

2.2

| 85

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 3,793

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 5[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 5

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jaime Resendez (Nonpartisan)  |

51.9

| 1,084

| Yolanda Williams (Nonpartisan)  |

37.1

| 776

| Ruth Torres (Nonpartisan) |

11.0

| 229

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 2,089

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 6[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 6

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Omar Narvaez (Nonpartisan)  |

59.0

| 1,458

| Monica Alonzo (Nonpartisan)  |

33.4

| 826

| Tony Carrillo (Nonpartisan)  |

7.6

| 188

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 2,472

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 7[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 7

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam Bazaldua (Nonpartisan)  |

51.1

| 2,140

| Tiffinni A. Young (Nonpartisan)  |

48.9

| 2,049

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 4,189

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 7

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam Bazaldua (Nonpartisan)  |

22.8

| 917
✔ |

| Tiffinni A. Young (Nonpartisan)  |

22.2

| 891

| Korey Mack (Nonpartisan)  |

19.9

| 798

| Kevin Felder (Nonpartisan)  |

14.6

| 588

| Calvin Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

8.0

| 323

| Joseph Thomas (Nonpartisan) |

6.2

| 250

| Sandra Crenshaw (Nonpartisan)  |

3.2

| 128

| Sade Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

1.5

| 61

| Yvette Gbalazeh (Nonpartisan)  |

1.5

| 61

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 4,017

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 8[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 8

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Tennell Atkins (Nonpartisan)  |

70.4

| 2,187

| Erik Wilson (Nonpartisan)  |

29.6

| 918

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 3,105

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 9[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 9

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Paula Blackmon (Nonpartisan)  |

52.1

| 4,646

| Erin Moore (Nonpartisan)  |

47.9

| 4,271

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 8,917

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 9

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Paula Blackmon (Nonpartisan)  |

36.9

| 3,200
✔ |

| Erin Moore (Nonpartisan)  |

31.8

| 2,763

| Sarah Lamb (Nonpartisan)  |

15.8

| 1,373

| Tamara Rodriguez (Nonpartisan)  |

14.3

| 1,241

| Jacinto Valdespino (Nonpartisan)  |

1.2

| 105

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 8,682

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

* Paul Sims (Nonpartisan)

### District 10[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 10

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Adam McGough (Nonpartisan)  |

77.4

| 5,519

| D'Andrala Alexander (Nonpartisan) |

19.9

| 1,423

| Sirrano Baldeo (Nonpartisan)  |

2.7

| 191

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 7,133

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 11[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 11

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Lee Kleinman (Nonpartisan)  |

77.8

| 4,488

| Curtis Harris (Nonpartisan)  |

22.2

| 1,282

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 5,770

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 12[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 12

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Cara Mendelsohn (Nonpartisan)  |

59.3

| 3,299

| Carolyn Peadon (Nonpartisan)  |

29.1

| 1,617

| Daniel Powell (Nonpartisan)  |

11.7

| 649

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 5,565

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 13[edit]

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 13

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Jennifer Staubach Gates (Nonpartisan)  |

66.0

| 8,930

| Laura Miller (Nonpartisan)  |

34.0

| 4,608

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 13,538

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### District 14[edit]

General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Dallas City Council District 14

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| David Blewett (Nonpartisan)  |

53.5

| 5,668

| Philip Kingston (Nonpartisan)  |

46.5

| 4,922

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 10,590

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

General election

##### General election for Dallas City Council District 14

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| David Blewett (Nonpartisan)  |

47.6

| 4,438
✔ |

| Philip Kingston (Nonpartisan)  |

40.4

| 3,766

| Warren Johnson (Nonpartisan)  |

12.0

| 1,116

* * *

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 9,320

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Click [show] for previous cycle election results.

### 2018 District 4 special election[edit]

General election

##### Special general election for Dallas City Council District 4

|  |

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

25.8

| 3,699
✔ |

| Keyaira Saunders (Nonpartisan)  |

17.1

| 2,446

| Vincent Parker (Nonpartisan)  |

10.8

| 1,553

| Dawn Blair (Nonpartisan)  |

8.8

| 1,266

| Corwyn Davis (Nonpartisan)  |

8.8

| 1,256

| Becky Lewis (Nonpartisan)  |

5.8

| 827

| Joli Angel Robinson (Nonpartisan)  |

5.6

| 805

| Brandon Joval Vance (Nonpartisan)  |

4.9

| 698

| Obi Igbkowe (Nonpartisan)  |

4.7

| 674

| Donald Washington (Nonpartisan)  |

2.2

| 314

| Kebran Alexander (Nonpartisan)  |

2.0

| 290

| Lester Houston Jr. (Nonpartisan)  |

1.9

| 274

| Justina Walford (Nonpartisan)  |

1.6

| 236

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

| Total votes: 14,338

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### District 4 runoff[edit]

General runoff election

##### Special general runoff election for Dallas City Council District 4

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

✔ |

| Carolyn King Arnold (Nonpartisan)  |

59.1

| 1,529

| Keyaira Saunders (Nonpartisan)  |

40.9

| 1,060

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race.

| Total votes: 2,589

|
|

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

### 2017[edit]

#### District 1[edit]

☑ Scott Griggs (i)
☐ Stephen Winn

#### District 2[edit]

☑ Adam Medrano (i)
☐ Brian Ostrander

#### District 3[edit]

☑ Casey Thomas II (i)
☐ Joe Tave

#### District 4[edit]

☐ Carolyn King Arnold (i)
☑ Dwaine Caraway

#### District 5[edit]

☑ Rick Callahan (i)
☐ Dominique Torres

#### District 6[edit]

Monica Alonzo (i)
☐ Tony Carrillo
☐ Gil Cerda
☐ Alex Dickey
Omar Narvaez
☐ Linus Spiller

#### District 6 runoff[edit]

☐ Monica Alonzo (i)
☑ Omar Narvaez

#### District 7[edit]

Tiffinni A. Young (i)
☐ Adam Bazaldua
☐ Marvin Crenshaw
Kevin Felder
☐ Tammy Johnston
☐ James Turknett

#### District 7 runoff[edit]

☐ Tiffinni A. Young (i)
☑ Kevin Felder

#### District 8[edit]

Erik Wilson (i)
Tennell Atkins
☐ Moctezuma Seth Gonzalez
☐ Gail Terrell
☐ Eric Williams​

#### District 8 runoff[edit]

☐ Erik Wilson (i)
☑ Tennell Atkins

#### District 9[edit]

☑ Mark Clayton​ (i)
☐ Arthur Adams Jr.

#### District 10[edit]

☑ Adam McGough (i)

#### District 11[edit]

☑ Lee Kleinman (i)
☐ Candy Evans

#### District 12[edit]

☑ Sandy Greyson (i)

#### District 13[edit]

☑ Jennifer Staubach Gates (i)

#### District 14[edit]

☑ Philip Kingston (i)
☐ Kim Welch
☐ Matt Wood

### 2015[edit]

#### District 1[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Scott Griggs \- Incumbent Griggs was elected in 2011.

#### District 2[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Adam Medrano \- Incumbent Medrano was elected in 2013.

#### District 3[edit]

Note: Incumbent Vonciel Jones Hill did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Gerald Britt
* Wini Cannon
* B. D. Howard
* Joe Tave a
* Casey Thomas, II a

June 13 Runoff election candidates:

* Joe Tave
* Casey Thomas, II

#### District 4[edit]

Note: Incumbent Dwaine Caraway did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Carolyn King Arnold
* Sandra Crenshaw
* Carl Hays
* Stephen King
* D. Marcus Ranger
* James Ross
* Keyaira D. Saunders
* Linda Wilkerson-Wynn

#### District 5[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Rick Callahan \- Incumbent Callahan was elected in 2005.
* Sherry Cordova
* Jesse Diaz

#### District 6[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Monica Alonzo \- Incumbent Alonzo was elected in 2011.
* Daniel Caldwell, I
* Ozumba Lnuk-X
* Lakolya London

#### District 7[edit]

Note: Incumbent Carolyn Davis did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Hasani Burton
* Kevin Felder a
* Baranda J. Fermin
* John Lawson
* Randall Parker
* James Turknett
* Juanita Wallace
* Tiffinni A. Young a

June 13 Runoff election candidates:

* Tiffinni A. Young
* Kevin Felder

#### District 8[edit]

Note: Incumbent Tennell Atkins did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Subrina Lynn Brenham
* Dianne Gibson a
* Clara McDade
* Gail Terrell
* Eric Lemonte Williams
* Erik Wilson a

June 3 Runoff election candidates:

* Dianne Gibson
* Erik Wilson

#### District 9[edit]

Note: Incumbent Sheffie Kadane did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Darren Boruff
* Mark Clayton
* Christopher Jackson
* Will Logg
* Sam Merten

#### District 10[edit]

Note: Incumbent Jerry Allen did not run for re-election.[37]
May 9 General election candidates:

* Adam McGough a
* Paul Reyes a
* James N. White

June 13 Runoff election candidates:

* Adam McGough
* Paul Reyes

#### District 11[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Lee Kleinman \- Incumbent Kleinman was elected in 2013.

#### District 12[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Sandy Greyson \- Incumbent Greyson was elected in 2011.

#### District 13[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Jennifer Staubach Gates \- Inumbent Gates was elected in 2013.

#### District 14[edit]

May 9 General election candidates:

* Philip Kingston \- Incumbent Kingston was elected in 2013.

## About the city[edit]

See also: Dallas, Texas

Dallas is a city in Texas and the seat of Dallas County. It is the ninth-largest city in the United States and the third-largest city in the state of Texas, behind Houston and San Antonio. Dallas is the largest city in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area. As of 2017, its population was 1.3 million.[38][39]

Between July 1, 2016 and July 1, 2017, the Dallas‐Fort Worth‐Arlington metropolitan area saw population growth of 146,000 people, which was the largest growth of any metropolitan area in the country.[38]

Dallas had a budget of $3.6 billion in fiscal year 2018-2019.[40]

### City government[edit]

See also: Council-manager government

The city of Dallas uses a council-manager system. In this form of municipal government, an elected city council—which includes the mayor and serves as the city's primary legislative body—appoints a chief executive called a city manager to oversee day-to-day municipal operations and implement the council's policy and legislative initiatives.

Most cities in the United States with populations over 1 million use a strong mayor system, in which the mayor—instead of a city manager—serves as the city's chief executive. In 2005, a measure was placed on the ballot in Dallas that would have removed the office of the city manager and increased mayoral powers. Sixty-two percent of Dallas voters, however, disapproved of the proposal. As a result, the city retained its council-manager system.[41]

### Industry[edit]

The following chart provides information on employment in Dallas by industry as of 2017.

### Demographics[edit]

The following table displays demographic data provided by the United States Census Bureau.

Demographic data for Dallas, Texas (2015)

| Dallas| Texas
Total population:| 1,260,688| 27,429,639
Land area (square miles):| 341| 261,232
Race and ethnicity[42]
White:| 60%| 74.9%
Black/African American:| 24.4%| 11.9%
Asian:| 3%| 4.2%
Native American:| 0.3%| 0.5%
Pacific Islander:| 0%| 0.1%
Two or more:| 2.3%| 2.5%
Hispanic/Latino:| 41.7%| 38.4%
Education
High school graduation rate:| 74.5%| 81.9%
College graduation rate:| 30.2%| 27.6%
Income
Median household income:| $43,781| $53,207
Persons below poverty level:| 24%| 19.9%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2010-2015)

## See also[edit]

Dallas, Texas | Texas | Municipal government | Other local coverage

|
|
|

* 2019 Dallas elections
* Dallas, Texas
* Cities in Texas
* Dallas County, Texas

* 2021 Texas elections
* Public policy in Texas
* Influencers in Texas
* Texas

* Top counties
* 100 largest cities
* Current mayors
* Current council officials

* 2021 municipal elections
* 2021 school board elections
* 2021 local ballot measure elections
* 2021 local judicial elections

## External links[edit]

|  Suggest a link

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* Search Google News for this topic
* Dallas, Texas

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Five candidates in the running to replace Adam Medrano on the Dallas City Council," April 12, 2021
2. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Five compete to replace Jennifer Staubach Gates on the Dallas City Council," April 13, 2021
3. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Four candidates competing for open seat on Dallas City Council to replace Lee Kleinman," April 12, 2021
4. ↑ D Magazine, "Dallas Council Members (Still) Don’t Want to Defund the Police," April 16, 2021
5. ↑ NBC DFW, "Year-End Numbers Show 2020 Dallas Violent Crime Reduction Plan Failed," December 31, 2020
6. ↑ The Texas Tribune, "Dallas City Council increases police budget overall, but reallocates $7 million from overtime budget," September 23, 2020
7. ↑ Dallas County Elections Department, "2021 Elections Voting Calendar," accessed April 25, 2021
8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 City of Dallas, "Overview of City Organization: Council-Manager Form of Government," accessed September 3, 2021
9. ↑ In battleground primaries, Ballotpedia based its selection of noteworthy candidates on polling, fundraising, and noteworthy endorsements. In battleground general elections, all major party candidates and any other candidates with the potential to impact the outcome of the race were included.
10. ↑ Sana Syed's campaign website, "Endorsements," accessed April 22, 2021
11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 Jesse Moreno's campaign website, "Endorsements," accessed April 22, 2021
12. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Five candidates in the running to replace Adam Medrano on the Dallas City Council," April 12, 2021
13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 Jaynie Schultz's campaign website, "Endorse," accessed April 22, 2021
14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4 Hosanna Yemiru's campaign website, "Endorsements," accessed April 22, 2021
15. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Our recommendations in all May 1 elections," April 18, 2021
16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Leland Burk's campaign website, "Endorsements," accessed April 22, 2021
17. ↑ The Dallas Morning News, "Keep Dallas Safe? How a shadowy political group is trying to manipulate Dallas elections," April 29, 2021
18. ↑ Keep Dallas Safe, "About," accessed April 29, 2021
19. ↑ Dallas Observer, "Council Member Blackmon Targeted by Shadowy 'Keep Dallas Safe' Campaign," April 22, 2021
20. ↑ Facebook, "Sana Syed on April 27, 2021," accessed April 29, 2021
21. ↑ 21.00 21.01 21.02 21.03 21.04 21.05 21.06 21.07 21.08 21.09 21.10 21.11 21.12 21.13 21.14 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
22. ↑ Raha Assadi’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
23. ↑ Jennifer Cortez’s campaign website, “Our Priorities,” accessed April 21, 2021
24. ↑ Michael Fetzer’s campaign website, “Priorities,” accessed April 21, 2021
25. ↑ Jesse Moreno’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
26. ↑ Jonas Park’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
27. ↑ Sana Syed’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
28. ↑ Candy Evans' campaign website, “About,” accessed April 21, 2021
29. ↑ Jaynie Schultz’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
30. ↑ Barry Wernick’s campaign website, “Priorities,” accessed April 21, 2021
31. ↑ Hosanna Yemiru’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
32. ↑ Da-On Boulanger-Chatman’s campaign website, “Vision for Dallas,” accessed April 21, 2021
33. ↑ Leland Burk’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
34. ↑ Gay Donnell Willis' campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
35. ↑ Ryan Moore’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
36. ↑ Jesse Moreno’s campaign website, “Issues,” accessed April 21, 2021
37. ↑ 37.0 37.1 37.2 37.3 37.4 37.5 ‘’Dallas News’’, “Rawlings off to fast fundraising start in re-election bid,” January 16, 2015
38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 U.S. Census, "State and County Quick Facts," accessed August 29, 2014
39. ↑ Dallas City Hall, "Comprehensive Annual Financial Report," March 30, 2018
40. ↑ Dallas City Hall, "Fiscal Year 2018-2019 Adopted Budget in Brief," accessed March 15, 2019
41. ↑ Texas Monthly, "What's the Matter with Dallas?" July 2005
42. ↑ Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

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