STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Economic Development
AGENDA DATE: October 23, 2024
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 6
DEPARTMENT: Department of Planning and Development
EXECUTIVE: Robin Bentley
______________________________________________________________________
SUBJECT
Title
A public hearing to receive comments and to approve a resolution granting a request to consider the Ceremonial Street Name request for “Raul Reyes Jr.” as a street topper on Morris Street, between North Winnetka Avenue and Sylvan Avenue - NC234-007CM - Not to exceed $663.10 - Financing: General Fund (see Fiscal Information)
Body
BACKGROUND
On August 7, 2024, the City of Dallas accepted an application for a ceremonial street topper on Morris Street between North Winnetka Avenue and Sylvan Avenue.
On October 4, 2024, notification signs were put up on Morris Street between North Winnetka Avenue and Sylvan Avenue in accordance with Section 51A-9.503(b) of the Dallas Development Code.
On October 4, 2024, notices were sent to 24 property owners which abut the streets notifying of the proposed hearing of the Ceremonial Street Name request before the City Council on October 23, 2024, in accordance with Section 51A-9.503(b) of the Dallas Development Code. The newspaper notices for October 23, 2024, the City Council hearing was published on October 4, 2024.
Raul Reyes Jr. was born on January 7, 1974, and grew up in West Dallas, instilled with values of education, hard work, and service by his parents. Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in his community, participating in, and supporting organizations like Trinity River Mission and Wesley Ranklin. He earned dual bachelor's degrees from University of Texas Arlington and later became a single father, raising his children Raul III, Dahlia, and Reagan with the same commitment to community that shaped his upbringing.
Raul was known for his passion for justice, equity, and inclusivity, championing causes related to education, housing, and environmental issues. He mentored not only his children but countless others, inspiring future leaders to continue serving their communities. As a founding member and President of West Dallas 1, he worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of West Dallas residents, especially in the face of rising gentrification.
Raul passed away on February 27, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy of dedication to social justice and community empowerment. His efforts touched many lives, and his memory lives on through the organizations, friends, and family who continue his work. Raul’s life reminds us that true wealth comes from the lives we impact and the communities we strengthen.
Additional information on Raul Reyes Jr. legacy is attached on Exhibit A.
Section 51A-9.504(a)(1)(C) is complied with as there has been no other city street renamed “Raul Reyes Jr.”; Section 51A-9.504(b)(3) requires that the street topper must have “In Honor of” as the top line of the topper. The request complies with all other sections of Section 51A-9.504 of the Dallas Development Code except Section 51A-9.504(a)(1)(B).
WAIVER IS NEEDED FOR: The following provision requires three quarters vote of the City Council to waive the requirement.
Section 51A-9.504(a)(1)(B) of the Dallas Development Code “Use of a ceremonial street naming is prohibited until at least two years after the death of the person to be honored.”
Section 51A-9.504(a)(2) The standards in Section 51A-9.504 may be waived by three quarters vote of the City Council.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
This item has no prior action.
FISCAL INFORMATION
|
Fund |
FY 2025 |
FY 2026 |
Future Years |
|
General Fund |
$663.10 |
$0.00 |
$0.00 |
New Street blades to be prepared and paid for by the City of Dallas.
MAP
Attached