Mayor Johnson: An economic juggernaut

Neiman Marcus Group’s new Dallas headquarters is only one of several significant investments in Dallas’ core that will bring jobs and new life to this city.

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Neiman Marcus Group (NMG) celebrated another proud moment in its rich history last week — one that began right here in Dallas more than 115 years ago. I joined NMG leaders, city officials, and business and community partners to preview NMG’s new corporate headquarters in Cityplace Tower. This headquarters is a truly modern and state-of-the-art innovation center that will attract more talent to this great city.

It was reported that the Dallas-based retailer had 52 offers from cities and developers to relocate its headquarters staff — but NMG chose to renew its investment in Dallas.

NMG will retain 1,100 permanent, full-time positions in this city and create an additional 300 jobs by the end of 2026. And at least 35% of these positions will be filled by Dallas residents.

The NMG Dallas headquarters is only one of several significant investments in Dallas’ core that will bring jobs and new life to this city. Goldman Sachs will break ground soon on its new $500 million office campus. The financial firm will create or retain 5,000 jobs in Dallas as part of the development. And Goldman Sachs expects the number of its employees working in Dallas to continue to grow.

It is no surprise that one RealPage expert described Dallas as an “economic juggernaut.”

The Dallas market added 400,000 new jobs in the last three years, which is more than any other market in the country. And new data reveals that this market also added more apartments over the last decade than anywhere in the nation. These results are driven by Dallas’ impressive population and job growth.

Worthy recognition

It is a great pleasure to showcase the achievements of a Dallas native.

Adrain Johnson, who was born and raised in South Dallas, graduated last month from the prestigious United States Naval Academy. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and served as the Academy’s 25th Company Commander.

While at the Academy, Adrain also excelled as a boxer. He was captain of the boxing team, became a two-time National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) champion, and was selected as the NCBA’s Outstanding Boxer in 2023. In addition, Adrain volunteered in the local community by supporting a new boxing program for at-risk youth.

This administration issued a Special Proclamation in recognition of Adrain’s remarkable military, academic, and athletic achievements. Adrain said that he witnessed his father cry for the first time when Marcus Luttrell — a fellow Texan and retired United States Navy SEAL — presented Adrain with the proclamation. The occasion also marked Adrain’s father’s inaugural trip outside of Texas, as he traveled to attend his son’s graduation ceremony.

The City of Dallas takes great pride in your accomplishments, Adrain, and we extend our best wishes as you embark on your new journey as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.

Thank you to Adrain’s boxing coach, Jim McNally, for sharing this story!

Settling a wager

Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn G. Goodman agreed to a friendly wager prior to the start of the National Hockey League’s 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs Western Conference Finals series between the Dallas Stars and the Vegas Golden Knights.

This was one tough bet to lose — what an incredible season the Dallas Stars had! But like any good Texan, I am a man of my word. Mayor Goodman will soon receive a genuine Stetson hat from Wild Bill’s Western Store in Dallas.

Congratulations, Mayor Goodman! Enjoy wearing this fine hat — and notice the initials branded on the back!

Dallas is home

I was pleased to reflect this week on the origin of my passion for serving the Dallas community. Read this feature in The Harvard Crimson to learn about the driving forces behind my relentless pursuit of a safer Dallas where all residents have opportunities to thrive.

Dallas is and always will be home. It is the privilege of a lifetime to serve the incredible residents of this city!

Take care of yourselves and each other.

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