City staff to do ‘everything possible’ to keep Chief Eddie Garcia in Dallas

Dallas City Hall leaders are determined to retain Police Chief Eddie Garcia in his current role amid reports that other Texas cities are eyeing him for leadership positions.

Chief Garcia addressed the city’s public safety committee on Monday to provide an update on violent crime, but did not disclose his intentions regarding potential offers from other cities.

Councilwoman Cara Mendelsohn, chair of the committee, expressed the city’s desire to keep Chief Garcia, highlighting his strong leadership, professionalism, and excellence.

Houston is currently seeking a new police chief following Troy Finner’s retirement, while Austin is also in need of a top cop after the hiring of T.C. Broadnax as city manager. Both cities are reportedly considering Garcia for the position.

Despite the speculation, Chief Garcia remains focused on his violent crime reduction plan, emphasizing the importance of maintaining efforts to combat crime during the upcoming summer season.

Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert emphasized the city’s commitment to retaining Chief Garcia, acknowledging that it will require flexibility, creativity, and accountability to achieve this goal.

The Dallas Police Association expressed its support for Chief Garcia, urging city council members to take necessary steps to ensure his continued leadership.

Chief Garcia currently earns just over $300,000 annually, ranking him as the eighth highest-paid city employee in Dallas.