Dallas’ District 10, located in the Lake Highlands area, is characterized by a mix of affluent neighborhoods and middle-class communities, as well as aging apartment complexes along major corridors leading to Interstate 635. Residents are in need of a council member who comprehends their diverse needs and advocates for solutions on their behalf. The incumbent Kathy Stewart, 67, is seen as a representative who can fulfill this role, and voters are encouraged to support her for a second term in the upcoming election.
Kathy Stewart, an attorney by profession, entered the council in 2023 after serving as the executive director of three public improvement districts (PIDs) in Lake Highlands and Uptown. As chair of the council’s Parks, Trails and Environment Committee, she has prioritized community engagement in her first term. During a recent interview, Stewart reflected on what she described as a “series of small wins,” including the development of a new park at Forest and Audelia roads—a notorious crime hotspot in the past. This neighborhood oasis is slated to open in August, signaling a significant improvement for the area.
In addition to the Forest and Audelia park, Lake Highlands is also set to receive a new green space on Bushmills Road. Listening to residents’ feedback was crucial in the planning process, as they expressed a preference against a playground. Stewart adapted the design to include trails, benches, and plantings to better suit the community’s interests.
Stewart’s initiatives extend to addressing concerns along the Skillman Street corridor, where a streetscape master plan is in development. She highlighted the importance of collaboration among the Lake Highlands PID, city departments, and other stakeholders to enhance pedestrian safety and traffic calming in the area. The first phase will focus on improvements between Sedgwick Drive and Church Road, incorporating eye-catching stamped concrete crosswalks, enhanced lighting, and decorative median plantings.
Kathy Stewart emphasized the role of Vicky Taylor, executive director of the Lake Highlands PID, in fostering communication with property managers of local apartment complexes. These discussions aid in informing landlords of available resources for security and management, thereby increasing accountability throughout the community.
A notable challenge faced by residents is the city’s “housing first” policy amidst the ongoing issue of homelessness. Many in the community have expressed frustration over unsheltered individuals with severe mental health issues and substance abuse problems in public areas. Stewart has voiced her support for the “housing first” approach but insists it must be part of a broader strategy to effectively combat homelessness. She believes that certain individuals may resist housing offers, leading to the necessity of enforcing bans on public camping and ensuring clean-up efforts are maintained.
While Stewart may not be the most vocal member of the council, she has demonstrated her leadership abilities, particularly during the negotiations to hire City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. Serving as a liaison between the council and Tolbert, Stewart has shown a commitment to finding common ground and resolving disputes through compromise.
Stewart’s approach is characterized by her willingness to maintain an open mind in discussions. “I really try to start and come to the table with an open mind,” she stated. This attitude is crucial for effective governance. As the election approaches, voters are encouraged to reelect Kathy Stewart to continue her work in service of District 10.
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