By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-975203.mp3
Dallas, TX – Dallas has a new Mayor who wants City Hall to "think big". KERA's BJ Austin reports.
"Our new mayor, Mike Rawlings.."
Mayor Mike Rawlings, in his inaugural address, announced that it's time to put the BIG back in Big D.
Rawlings: People have often accused me of thinking big, thinking too big. And it's that attitude that I plan to bring to City Hall.
Rawlings announced plans to create leadership teams to bring business and jobs to South Dallas in six targeted areas. Bob Stimson, President of the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce likes what he hears, but says it's going to be a big job.
Stimson: It is a daunting task, but I think he's got his arms around it. You need to pick some project that are doable and get em done, and go on to the next one.
Mayor Rawlings also wants a coordinated effort among the city, non-profits, faith based, and Chambers of Commerce to help the Dallas ISD.
Rawlings: Traditionally schools are not the priority at City Hall, but that's about to change because the state of our public schools is an issue that affects every single one of us.
Dallas School Board President Lew Blackburn says he and the new mayor are already working on that.
Blackburn: I've already spoken to Mike Rawlings a couple of times about my ideas, and he shared some of his ideas. And we're scheduled to meet this week to look at more about how we can work together.
Mayor Rawlings ended his inaugural speech with five goals: to put Dallas in the top five cities for public safety; schools; small business; convention and tourism; and healthy lifestyle.
And with that..
Rawlings: Thank you for being here. Thank you for caring about our city. And now, it's time to go to work.