Statement from District 1, 7, and 9 Council Members

What
Several Council Members issued the following statement in response to the special
called meeting of the Housing and Homeless Solutions Committee held Tuesday,
Dec. 19, 2023.

Who
Chad West, District 1 Council Member
Adam Bazaldua, District 7 Council Member
Paula Blackmon, District 9 Council Member

Protecting and preserving the diverse neighborhoods in Dallas has always been our main focus,
along with starting this conversation around how our city moves forward. Many areas in our city
are experiencing displacement due to higher taxes, and if lot sizes are modified beyond the
1950’s-era zoning standards, then families will have more options to stay in place.

We are committed to continuing this conversation through the ordinary process of community
meetings, the Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee (ZOAC), the city plan commission, council
committee, and finally a council vote. It is important for all of our city residents to participate in this
discussion as this will set a trajectory for how our city allows for both growth and preservation for
future generations.

Dallas is now a mature city. Everyone should be able to have the economic freedom to choose a
community that works for them, and we believe the policy proposals will do just that. With land
values and appraisals at an all-time high, it is time to reassess how we allocate the size of our lots
and the costs associated with them.