Dallas City Council

Dallas City Hears Nuisance Concerns, Appoints Land Bank Representative

(From the minutes taken by Steven K. Vorhies, City Clerk)

The Dallas City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, May 4, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall. Mayor Kevin Six called the meeting to order, with Commissioners Carole McDowell, Peggy Newberry, Harold Northup Jr., and Greg Olson all present.

Several residents and community members attended the meeting, including Anne Thompson, Cathie Smith, Michelle Gold, Chari Purchatzke, Laurey Wibbell, Judy Melton, Dave Dooley, Cristien Balmer, Tami Kaminski, Kayla Kaminski, John Stimpson, Beth Greenig, Barry Lillard, Victoria Livingston, and Scott Rosson.

The Council approved the minutes of the April 20, 2026 meeting, with Commissioner Northup abstaining. A motion by Commissioner Olson, seconded by Commissioner Newberry, to pay the city’s bills was approved unanimously.

Multiple residents raised issues related to the city’s nuisance ordinance. Concerns were expressed about properties around town that are out of compliance. Council members noted that once violations are formally issued, the city attorney must proceed with enforcement.

Michelle Gold thanked the Council for installing porta potties at the walking path in the wetlands area, citing improved convenience for users.

Dave Dooley reported problems with a neighboring property where trash is accumulating and blowing into adjacent yards that he maintains. He also pointed out a ditch and culvert in need of attention. City streets staff will inspect these areas.

Victoria Livingston discussed properties in town requiring maintenance and urged the Council to consider adopting building codes. She suggested the International Building Code as a possible model. Discussion followed on whether new codes would apply only to future construction or also to existing buildings. Livingston plans to consult with the Land Bank’s attorney for clarification, while the Council agreed to further review potential building code options.

The fire hydrant at the foot of Creamery Hill Road has been excavated and addressed. The search for a new city attorney continues, as the Council has not yet found a candidate willing to take the position. Commissioner Carole McDowell agreed to serve as the city’s representative to the Land Bank, with Judy Melton agreeing to serve as alternate. The Council approved both appointments by unanimous vote on a motion by Olson, seconded by Northup.

The Council discussed the possibility of creating a local engine braking ordinance. The topic will receive further consideration at the next meeting.

To better accommodate growing attendance at Council meetings, the group decided to relocate folding chairs from Father Schram Hall to City Hall.

The meeting concluded at 6:10 p.m. This information was taken from the May 4 minutes approved at the May 18 regular meeting. The Dallas City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June15, at city hall.