Audio By Carbonatix
“The message tonight is Dallas is moving forward,” said Mayor Tom Leppert as the crowd here at Gilley’s roared in approval. The votes still aren’t all in, but, said the mayor, “I can tell you tonight the winner is the Dallas taxpayer.”
The mayor looked exhausted and seems to have aged a decade in his two years in office, but once again, he can claim another victory — even in the aftermath of a Trinity River toll road campaign that damaged his credibility.
“‘We were outspent by millions of dollars, but the old politics
didn’t work,” he said, speaking on behalf of a pro-biz establishment
that has been winning for years. “What was key to us was not about a
hotel but making sure the economy is strong and vibrant.”
The mayor also gave thanks to the council who voted by an 11-2 margin for the hotel proposal nearly a year ago.
When news happens, Dallas Observer is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.
We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If the Dallas Observer matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.
“This
council has had mud thrown at them,” he said, sounding defiant. “It didn’t matter. These are men and women I am awfully glad
to serve with.”
Lepper went on to thank Phillip Jones, Carol Reed and his wife.
After a few other people took to the podium, the mayor said his goodbyes, and U2’s “Beautiful Day” rang from the speakers.
We’ve got more photos from the night in our slide show.
