On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the Dallas City Council adopted a resolution appointing Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert as the 19th City Manager in Dallas' history, dating back to 1931. The resolution also approved the terms of her employment and authorized the execution of an Agreement of Employment.
Tolbert’s appointment follows a national search led by the City Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on Administrative Affairs, chaired by Mayor Pro Tem Tenell Atkins. As one of three finalists, she participated in interviews and three community engagement events.
Having served as Interim City Manager since May 2024, Tolbert implemented a proactive 100-day transition plan that achieved several key milestones, including:
- Delivering a balanced biennial FY 2024-25 budget with unanimous City Council approval.
- Reducing commercial permitting median issuance times for new construction by 31%.
- Restructuring the organizational chart to enhance cross-departmental collaboration.
- Consolidating departments to boost productivity, saving $13 million.
- Launching recruitment and retention incentives for first responders.
As City Manager, Tolbert will oversee the City’s $5.2 billion budget and manage over 13,000 employees.
“I want to thank the City Council for their confidence in me to lead this City as we evolve on the world stage, with a thriving and inclusive community that sets the standard for excellence,” Tolbert said. She emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and economic growth, adding, “I am excited to build upon the momentum we have already achieved.”
Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson expressed his support, stating, “As Interim City Manager, Tolbert has streamlined city operations, improved efficiency, reduced waste, and delivered the largest single-year property tax rate reduction in Dallas history.” He added, “With Tolbert now in a permanent role, Dallas is poised to enhance government transparency, safety, and efficiency.”
Mayor Johnson also thanked Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins for leading the selection process.
Tolbert’s appointment is effective immediately.
