GLENN HEIGHTS, TX – Before an audience of residents, regional partners, civic leaders, and elected officials, Mayor Sonja A. Brown delivered the 2026 State of the City Address, outlining a clear vision for governance reform, infrastructure expansion, strategic partnerships, and long-term investment in the 21,000 residents who call Glenn Heights home.
Opening with gratitude and unity, Mayor Brown centered the address on community ownership.
“There is no State of the City without a city. There is no Glenn Heights without you,” Brown said. “This city belongs to our residents. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for believing that our best days are ahead.”
Now serving her second term, Mayor Brown emphasized that Glenn Heights is entering a phase defined by structural strengthening and disciplined leadership.
“We are strengthening systems. We are reviewing policies. We are addressing governance with seriousness and integrity. We are choosing transparency over tension, structure over confusion, and accountability over comfort.”
Governance with Integrity and Direction
Mayor Brown recognized Mayor Pro Tem Travis Bruton and Council Members Sherron Mosley, Shaunte Allen, Tramayne Hobbs, Laymon Lightfoot, and Nelda Washington for their commitment to advancing city priorities.
She underscored that transformative leadership requires both vision and operational excellence.
“We are building a city that functions with excellence behind the scenes so it can flourish in front of the world.”
Strategic Partnerships Driving Tangible Results
A significant portion of the address highlighted partnerships that are delivering measurable impact.
Through collaboration with AT&T, United Way, and Compudopt, laptops were distributed directly to Glenn Heights residents, expanding digital equity and enabling students, parents, seniors, and entrepreneurs to access education, employment, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
Linebarger’s revenue recovery efforts were recognized for supporting reinvestment in streets, parks, and public safety. Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) continues expanding regional mobility access, connecting residents to jobs and healthcare throughout North Texas.
Methodist Charlton Medical Center was acknowledged for advancing healthcare equity, while Oncor and Atmos Energy were recognized for infrastructure reliability and consistent community engagement. Community Waste Disposal and the Red Oak Area Chamber of Commerce were also commended for their role in economic stability and business growth.
Education Investments Shape the Future
Mayor Brown recognized the leadership of Dr. Usamah Rodgers of DeSoto ISD and Superintendent Brenda Sanford of Red Oak ISD for historic bond investments that will directly impact Glenn Heights families.
Upcoming improvements include:
- Construction of a new Frank D. Moates campus
- Major upgrades to Curtisene McCowan Elementary
- Opening of Dr. Joy Shaw Middle School
- Districtwide infrastructure enhancements
In 2025, Glenn Heights also partnered with the Close-Up Foundation to send eight students to Washington, D.C., reinforcing the city’s commitment to civic education and youth leadership development.
Infrastructure and Development Momentum
Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price was recognized for approving and funding the East Bear Creek Road expansion project, a critical infrastructure investment supporting safety and economic growth.
City Manager Clifford Blackwell highlighted major development projects underway, including:
- Stewart Farms (97 acres, 350 homes, commercial space, and park development)
- Maplewood South Phase II (70 additional homes)
- New commercial additions, including O’Reilly Auto Parts and Tractor Supply Company
- Upcoming Wash Masters car wash and Popeyes Restaurant
Public Works continues design planning for new ground storage tanks, water main improvements funded by ARPA, and a future public works facility.
Public Safety and Emergency Services Expansion
Police Chief Glynell Horn emphasized relationship-based policing and community visibility initiatives.
Fire Chief Nick Williams reported record call volume in 2025, the deployment of two new ambulances, the hiring of a full-time Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator, and the expansion of community CPR classes and youth engagement programming.
Representation at Every Level
Mayor Brown acknowledged state and federal partners for ongoing collaboration:
- Representative Aicha Davis (District 109)
- Representative Brian Harrison (District 10)
- Senator Royce West (District 23)
- Congressman Jake Ellzey (District 6)
- Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (District 30)
Congresswoman Crockett delivered recorded remarks announcing more than $1 million in federal funding for wastewater treatment improvements and $325,000 for a comprehensive infiltration flow study.
“When you see our federal representatives engaged with Glenn Heights,” Brown said, “understand that this city is represented, respected, and defended at every level of government.”
A City Positioned for Its Next Chapter
The 2026 State of the City reflected a municipality operating with intention — balancing small-town character with regional ambition.
“As we move into 2026 and beyond,” Mayor Brown concluded, “we do so with pride and direction. Glenn Heights is evolving. And we are shaping that future together.”
About the City of Glenn Heights
Incorporated in 1969, Glenn Heights is a growing North Texas community located along IH-35E and divided between Dallas and Ellis counties. With a population of approximately 21,000 residents, the city continues to prioritize infrastructure investment, public safety, economic development, and community engagement.
