Dallas City Council Debates Future of City Hall

Members representing East Dallas and Lake Highlands divided on relocation and repair plans

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Dallas City Council voted 9-6 to approve a resolution that authorizes the city manager to explore relocation and repairs of the aging Dallas City Hall building. Council members representing Lake Highlands and East Dallas were divided on the issue, with some citing concerns over the speed of the process and the financial impact, while others argued the redevelopment could lead to growth in southern Dallas and better fund essential city services.

Why it matters

The future of Dallas City Hall is a contentious issue, with concerns over the building's condition, the potential costs of repairs, and the broader implications for the city's civic identity and budget. The debate highlights the differing priorities and perspectives of council members representing different neighborhoods in Dallas.

The details

The resolution approved by the council also bans companies involved with the building's assessment from bidding on future related contracts. Council members in favor of the resolution, including Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Moreno and Kathy Stewart, argued it could lead to growth in southern Dallas and better fund essential city services. Those opposed, such as Adam Bazaldua, Paula Blackmon, and Paul Ridley, raised concerns about the speed of the process, the financial impact, and the need for an independent assessment of repair costs.

  • The Dallas City Council debated the future of Dallas City Hall in a March 4 meeting that ended in the early hours of the following day.
  • The council voted 9-6 to approve the resolution on March 4.

The players

Jesse Moreno

Mayor Pro Tem of Dallas City Council District 2.

Kathy Stewart

Dallas City Council member for District 10.

Adam Bazaldua

Dallas City Council member for District 7.

Paula Blackmon

Dallas City Council member for District 9.

Paul Ridley

Dallas City Council member for District 14.

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What they’re saying

“This is about building a stronger Dallas for those who call Dallas home today and for our children, grandchildren and future residents.”

— Jesse Moreno, Mayor Pro Tem of Dallas City Council District 2 (The Dallas Morning News)

“The speed at which this is unfolding is alarming. I've been around City Hall long enough to know that we never move this quickly on anything.”

— Paula Blackmon, Dallas City Council member for District 9 (Blackmon's newsletter)

“If this conversation is truly about the Mavericks, then let's have that discussion – publicly and honestly.”

— Paula Blackmon, Dallas City Council member for District 9 (Blackmon's newsletter)

“If we are going to act as if the information we are given is being given to us to make decisions objectively, then I would like to know that those who are giving me the information are not seeking to benefit financially in the future.”

— Adam Bazaldua, Dallas City Council member for District 7 (The Dallas Morning News)

“This iconic building (literally 'The People's House') is a civic asset that deserves careful consideration and transparent decision-making about its future.”

— Paul Ridley, Dallas City Council member for District 14 (Ridley's newsletter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The debate over the future of Dallas City Hall highlights the complex and sometimes competing priorities of city council members representing different neighborhoods. While some see redevelopment as an opportunity for growth and improved city services, others are concerned about the speed of the process and the potential loss of a civic landmark. Transparent and inclusive decision-making will be crucial as the city determines the best path forward.