The Dallas City Council has approved Mayor Eric Johnson’s choice for chairman of the important City Charter Review Commission.
Allen Vaught, a military veteran and former state lawmaker, will lead efforts to review and revise the City’s charter in the coming months.
“Vaught is well-equipped to lead this once-in-a-decade opportunity to improve our city’s governing framework,” Mayor Johnson explained in a statement. “He is an experienced attorney and dedicated public servant who knows our city well.”
“I am confident that he will preside over an efficient and transparent charter review process for the benefit of all Dallas residents,” he added.
“It is my hope that this process will help the City of Dallas better address the challenges faced by a top-10 American city in the 21st century and enhance the quality of the services provided to our residents,” the mayor continued.
Vaught has served on other city boards and commissions at the mayor’s appointment, previously acting as a trustee for the Dallas Police and Fire Pension System Board and the original chair of the City’s Veterans Affairs Commission.
In addition to an extensive legal career, Vaught served his country as a captain in the Army during the Iraq War. He was awarded a Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Valorous Unit Award, the Combat Action Badge, and the Order of the Spur for his actions.
Vaught was also a member of the Texas House from 2007 to 2011, earning numerous awards from various non-partisan groups and sitting on the Criminal Jurisprudence and Veterans’ Affairs committees.
He thanked the mayor for the appointment, saying, “I am honored to accept Mayor Johnson’s invitation to chair the City of Dallas Charter Review Commission.”
“It is critical that we ensure our City Charter aligns with Dallas’ ever-evolving needs and aspirations,” Vaught added. “I look forward to collaborating with my fellow commissioners and the residents of Dallas throughout the charter review process.”
As chair, Vaught will guide the 15-member commission as it reviews the existing City Charter and proposes various amendments to the City Council. The process will take some time, and a report will be filed by May 21, 2024, at the latest.
The last time the charter was reviewed was in 2014.