Investigation Uncovers Alleged Dual City Paychecks for Dallas, Austin IT Employees

Authorities probe claims of two public employees working full-time for both cities simultaneously.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:48am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a computer circuit board with exposed microchips and wiring, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the technical evidence at the center of a municipal fraud investigation.A close examination of the technical infrastructure at the heart of this municipal fraud investigation reveals the stark, gritty details of the alleged wrongdoing.Dallas Today

Authorities are investigating a whistle-blower tip alleging that two Information Technology employees were working full-time for both the City of Dallas and the City of Austin simultaneously, earning a combined annual salary of more than $270,000 from Dallas alone. The City of Austin has confirmed terminating three staff members from its Technology Services department as a result of an ongoing review.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns over potential abuse of public funds and raises questions about oversight and accountability within municipal governments. The allegations, if proven true, could undermine public trust in local institutions and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

The details

According to city figures, one of the Dallas IT employees was paid $144,515.10 per year, while the other earned $128,750 per year. The City of Dallas launched an investigation after receiving a whistle-blower tip through its confidential hotline in November. Interim Inspector General Baron Eliason opened the probe and notified the Dallas Police Department's Public Integrity Unit and the City Manager. The City of Austin also confirmed terminating three staff members from its Technology Services department, including the interim Chief Information Security Officer, Brian Gardner, who previously served as the Chief Information Officer for the City of Dallas.

  • The whistle-blower tip was received by the City of Dallas in November 2025.
  • The City of Austin terminated three staff members during the week of March 23, 2026.

The players

Baron Eliason

Interim Inspector General for the City of Dallas who opened the investigation into the alleged dual employment.

Kimberly Bizor Tolbert

City Manager for the City of Dallas.

Brian Gardner

Former Chief Information Officer for the City of Dallas who served as the interim Chief Information Security Officer for the City of Austin before being terminated.

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What they’re saying

“On advice of counsel, I will not be commenting on this matter. As you know very well, there are at least two sides to every story. If and when it is appropriate, I will consider speaking further.”

— Brian Gardner, Former Interim Chief Information Security Officer, City of Austin

What’s next

The City of Dallas says its investigation into the matter is ongoing, and officials in both cities emphasize that their technical infrastructure remains secure despite the allegations.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong oversight and accountability measures within municipal governments to prevent potential abuse of public funds and maintain public trust. The terminations in Austin and the ongoing investigation in Dallas underscore the seriousness of the allegations and the need for thorough reviews of employee activities across city agencies.