Dallas City Council approves land sale and salary increases for key officials

The Dallas City Council meeting on April 23, 2025, focused on several key agenda items, including property sales, personnel appointments, and zoning matters.

One of the most significant discussions involved the approval of a resolution to declare approximately 217,911 square feet of land near North Stemmons Freeway and West Mockingbird Lane as unwanted and unneeded. The council authorized the property to be sold through public auction or a real estate brokerage, with a two-tier sale process that allows for the sale of the land with improvements or as vacant land. The motion passed without opposition.

Additionally, the council addressed personnel matters, including the reappointment of city officials. A resolution to reappoint Billy Ray Johnson as city secretary for two years was proposed, along with merit increases for city auditor Mark Swan and city attorney Tammy Palomino. However, a motion was made to hold these items for further consideration until May 14, 2025, to include discussions on retention and incentives. This motion was also approved.

The meeting also included discussions on the acquisition of land for the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center expansion project. The council authorized the acquisition of two parcels of land, with a combined cost not to exceed $51.67 million. A change to the first right of refusal exercise period was proposed, extending it from 10 days to 45 days, which was accepted after some procedural adjustments.

The session concluded with a recess for a press conference, after which the council returned to discuss zoning matters. The meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to manage city resources effectively and address personnel needs while planning for future developments.