Economic Development
Make City Hall More User Friendly
We have made some progress in making City Hallmore user-friendly for individuals and businesses by expediting permitting and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape.
I continue to hear stories from business owners about the difficulties involved in working with City Hall. Dallas must have an attitude of helpfulness and processes that are clear and easy to follow if we are to attract and keep businesses and jobs in Dallas.
I will continue to push to see the city iimprove in this area.
Increase the Tax Base
To keep our economy vibrant and grow our tax base we must attract businesses that create jobs, especially in the Southern Sector and downtown.
The International Inland Port of Dallas (IIPOD) in southern Dallas presents a great opportunity for Dallas. This project will help reduce the tax burden on homeowners.
 We must work to keep the businesses we have and encourage their expansion. Dallas City Hall can be difficult for small businesses doing construction and renovation. The plan approval process is long; appointments for inspections are often not kept and different departments may give conflicting advice.
We need to streamline the process and to make it easier for businesses that are here to flourish and to keep others from going outside of Dallas for expansion.
Economic Incentives
I am judicious in the use of economic development tools such as Tax Increment Financing Districts (TIFs), Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) and tax abatements. They are tools that must not be over-used. While these are important tools, they must not be abused.
I treat each city investment as if it were my own.
Upgrade District 13 Retail
I will encourage developers and property owners to reinvigorate shopping centers in District 13 that are aging I will also work with developers and leasing agents to bring a variety of retail that is needed and desired by the neighborhoods.
Also review how I plan to remain focused on:
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