The Dallas City Council adopted Resolution No. 3554 on Aug. 4 to formalize city policy for the approval and installation of memorials and public art in parks and public spaces, a measure city staff said will create a transparent application process and require council approval for future memorials.

The policy was advanced to council after review by advisory committees and the parks advisory board. It sets criteria for approval and a procedure for applicants proposing statues, structures or other memorials on city-owned land.

During council discussion, Councilor Carlos asked that the policy explicitly bar “offensive imagery of hate speech towards protective classes” in the criteria for approval. Council members and staff discussed whether existing language—prohibiting images and language tied to gangs or hate groups—already covered the concern, and whether the council’s final approval role provided an additional safeguard.

“Rather than trying to wordsmith an exhaustive list of things that we want to make sure we prohibit, you ultimately will have the decision making authority on every one of the memorials that will come before you,” a city staff member said. Council members agreed staff could return with revised language if the council wanted further clarification.

The council took a roll-call vote and the resolution passed unanimously. Councilors present recorded “yes” votes individually during the roll call.

City staff said the resolution formalizes the application and approval process so proposals will be reviewed against specified criteria and brought to council for final action. Council members said the policy does not preclude the council from denying any application that it considers inappropriate under the adopted criteria.