Allen Vaught named chairman of City of Dallas Charter Review Commission
The 15-member Commission will be responsible for reviewing the City Charter and submitting a report to the City Council no later than May 21, 2024.
DALLAS — On Wednesday, the Dallas City Council unanimously approved the nomination of Allen Vaught as chairman of the Charter Review Commission (the “Commission”). Mayor Eric L. Johnson nominated Vaught for the position.
The Charter of the City of Dallas, Texas (the “City Charter”) is the foundational document that outlines the structure, powers, and functions of the city’s government. Pursuant to the City Charter, the City Charter must be reviewed by a commission appointed by the City Council “at intervals of not more than 10 years.”
“Allen Vaught is well-equipped to lead this once-in-a-decade opportunity to improve our city’s governing framework,” Mayor Johnson said. “He is an experienced attorney and dedicated public servant who knows our city well. I am confident that he will preside over an efficient and transparent charter review process for the benefit of all Dallas residents.”
Vaught is an award-winning employment law attorney with over 24 years of experience. He served in the Texas House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, where he received top legislator awards from non-partisan groups, including the Texas Police Chiefs Association, Texas PTA, and the Texas District and County Attorneys Association. Prior to his election to the Texas Legislature, Vaught served as a U.S. Army captain in Iraq and led the first Civil Affairs/Psychological Operations team to enter Fallujah. He served as the de-facto mayor of Fallujah for several months in 2003.
Mayor Johnson previously appointed Vaught to serve as a trustee on the Dallas Police and Fire Pension System Board and as the first chairman of the City of Dallas Veterans Affairs Commission.
“I am honored to accept Mayor Johnson’s invitation to chair the City of Dallas Charter Review Commission,” Vaught said. “It is critical that we ensure our City Charter aligns with Dallas’ ever-evolving needs and aspirations. I look forward to collaborating with my fellow commissioners and the residents of Dallas throughout the charter review process.”
The 15-member Commission will be responsible for reviewing the City Charter and submitting a report to the City Council no later than May 21, 2024. After receiving the Commission’s report, the City Council may adopt, modify, or disregard the Commission’s recommended amendments and/or propose its own.
As dictated by the Texas Election Code, the City Council must vote no later than August 19, 2024 on which City Charter amendments, if any, to place on the November 5, 2024 ballot for Dallas voters’ consideration.
“It is my hope that this process will help the City of Dallas better address the challenges faced by a top-10 American city in the 21st century and enhance the quality of the services provided to our residents,” Mayor Johnson said.
