At Inauguration, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson Promises ‘a New Day' at City Hall With Focus on Civility, Ethics

At an inauguration ceremony Monday, new Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson promised to restore civility and eradicate corruption at City Hall."A new day for Dallas means a new culture of civility at City Hall. We can attack problems without attacking people," Johnson said. "As mayor, that's exactly what I'm asking all of our city leaders to do. ... The challenges facing our city are simply too big for us to act small."As they officially took office, Johnson and newly elected and re-elected council members expressed optimism about tackling those challenges, which include budgeting, education, economic disparities and public safety — highlighted by a shooting at the federal courthouse Monday morning.The council horseshoe will have plenty of new perspectives. Johnson, who was a state representative, replaces Mayor Mike Rawlings, who led the city for eight years — the longest stint for a Dallas mayor in nearly six decades. And nearly half the council will be new: Scott Griggs, who unsuccessfully ran for mayor, and Sandy Greyson were term-limited; Mark Clayton and Rickey Callahan didn't run for re-election; Kevin Felder and Philip Kingston both lost their seats to challengers.In their places are Chad West, Cara Mendelsohn, Paula Blackmon, Jaime Resendez, Adam Bazaldua and David Blewett. And council members, both veteran and new, say they share Johnson's optimism with the new leadership.  Continue reading...