The City of Dallas has the Council-Manager form of government: the City Council writes the ordinances (the city equivalent of laws) and the City Manager is responsible for executing them.
The manager is hired by the city council, so we don’t get a say in that decision, but we do get to vote for the mayor and city council members. The mayor is elected at large – that is, everyone gets to vote for the mayor – but you only get to vote for the city council member who represents your district.
There are 14 districts in Dallas, and you can find a map and the name of your council member online. You can also find your City Council District at DallasCountyVotes.org by selecting Voter Information/Find My District. City elections are nonpartisan, so don’t expect to find party affiliation.
Dallas is a home rule city, which means it has a charter, similar to a constitution at the state or federal level. As with a constitution, a charter may be amended from time to time. Amending is a big deal and requires voter approval.
Why should you care enough to vote?!?
Do you drive on Dallas streets? Take public transit? Do you notice when a street light or stoplight is out? Do you want someone to answer the phone when you dial 911? Do you use the library or Park District facilities? Do you care whether the police or fire department are going to be there when you need them?
Are arts, culture, and economic growth important to you? Your City Council member is the person who determines whether your needs are being met and approves the budget for these services. They also set the city part of the property taxes you have to pay.
In short, the city government affects your life on a daily basis in more ways than any other level of government.
That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your councilmember’s phone number handy. If you have a complaint, it pays to tell the person who can do something about it. City Council meetings are public, so you can attend them either virtually or in person (and complain to the entire council).