STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Core - Organizational Support
AGENDA DATE: August 27, 2025
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): Citywide
DEPARTMENT: Mayor and City Council Office
EXECUTIVE: Ahmad Goree
______________________________________________________________________
SUBJECT
Title
A resolution amending Subsections 9.1, “Committees Established,” and 9.3, “Committee Meetings,” of Section 9 “City Council Committees,” of the City Council Rules of Procedure changing the name of the Committee on Government Performance and Financial Management to Committee on Finance, changing the name of the Committee on Workforce, Education, and Equity to Committee on Government Efficiency, and requiring in-person attendance at meetings of City Council committees - Financing: No cost consideration to the City
Body
BACKGROUND
The proposed resolution amends the City Council Rules of Procedure by changing the name of two of the eight standing committees from the Committee on Government Performance and Financial Management to the Committee on Finance and the Committee on Workforce, Education, and Equity to the Committee on Government Efficiency. The renaming of these committees reflects this Mayoral Administration’s priority that the City of Dallas (1) practice fiscal responsibility and serve as a prudent steward of taxpayer dollars; and (2) be efficient in its internal operations, delivery of public services, and interactions with other branches and levels of government.
The proposed resolution further amends the City Council Rules of Procedure to clarify that attendance at the legally-noticed location is required by members of City Council committees. An exception is made for committee members to attend such meetings via videoconference when necessitated by official city business.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance at all City Council and committee meetings was in person until Emergency Regulations promulgated during the state of emergency caused by the pandemic expressly permitted hybrid meetings of City Council and committees. Since the termination of those Emergency Regulations, there is no clear basis for councilmembers appearing via videoconference.
Physical presence fosters higher-quality deliberation through face-to-face interaction and promotes efficiency. It also increases focus, attention, and transparency, and reduces risks of technological disruption, while ensuring clear voting and quorum procedures. Members’ presence during committee meetings also provides opportunities for informal engagement with citizens, staff, and media that are vital to effective representation. Therefore, while clarifying the existing rules and creating an exception, this amendment strengthens transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the committee process, where much of the City Council’s work is done.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
This item has no prior action.
FISCAL INFORMATION
No cost consideration to the City.