Feb 4, 2025 Story by: Editor
On January 11, 2025, Dallas Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert met with residents and community leaders as part of the ongoing process to find a permanent city manager. Tolbert, along with Fort Worth Assistant City Manager William Johnson and Sacramento Assistant City Manager Mario Lara, were the final candidates for the position. Tolbert’s appointment, following a 13-2 City Council vote, marked a historic moment as she became the first Black woman to serve as the city’s manager.
In her remarks after the vote, Tolbert expressed pride in her journey, saying, “I remain proud that I came to Dallas as a budding rose from Tyler, and Dallas allowed me to bloom. This is my home, and I am a champion for this city.” She emphasized her vision for the future, aiming to make Dallas “a model for global excellence” with an efficient government and targeted economic growth.
The vote saw some dissent, with Council members Paul Ridley and Cara Mendelsohn opposing the contract due to concerns over details and a potential severance payout. Ridley noted the community’s dissatisfaction with the previous severance payout for former City Manager T.C. Broadnax, which had sparked controversy.
Despite the concerns, Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins expressed confidence in Tolbert, highlighting her compassion and ability to connect with the community. Atkins also urged the public to hold the new city manager accountable, emphasizing the importance of professional criticism. Tolbert’s appointment comes after a tumultuous year for Dallas City Hall, including the resignation of former City Manager Broadnax, who received a controversial severance package. Despite some challenges during her tenure, Tolbert’s assertive leadership, including her 100-day action plan to tackle the city’s pressing issues, has won support from various stakeholders, including the Black Chamber of Commerce and Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price. Source: Dallas News
