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Best Dallas Plumbers: Top Plumbers in Dallas, TX 2024

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Best Dallas Plumbers: Top Plumbers in Dallas, TX 2024


Dallas Plumbers: Best Plumber in Dallas, TX in 2024

It’s estimated that there are more than 10,000 plumbers in Dallas who can handle the plumbing needs of 1.3 million people living in over 500,000 households. 

The average cost to hire a Dallas plumber in the metro area is $34 per hour. However, the final bill for Texas homeowners will depend on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the project, plus any extra labor expenses. 

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To get an estimate, homeowners can request quotes from the top plumbing companies in Dallas with the help of popular online platforms. Find out how our winning pick Networx and other service directories compare to each other, so you can find the right Dallas plumber who can assist you with plumbing repairs and installations.

Best Dallas Plumbers of 2024

  1. Networx – Top platform to connect with Dallas plumbers
  2. Thumbtack – Best for versatile scheduling 
  3. Taskrabbit – Best for simple projects 

1. Networx – Top Platform to Connect with Dallas Plumbers

(credit: PR)

Pros:

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  • Clear pricing for various plumbing services
  • A lot of available plumbing professionals
  • Intuitive platform for quick plumber comparison
  • Features Dallas plumbers with informative profiles and reviews

Cons:

  • Does not cover certain remote areas of the city

Why Pick Networx?

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Networx is an excellent choice for people who need Dallas plumbers because it provides an upfront and smooth user experience. This online platform enables customers to search for suitable plumbing contractors who can handle either advanced plumbing projects or easy repairs. 

Services Offered

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Networx can connect you with a variety of Dallas plumbers who offer many types of plumbing services. These plumbing professionals can perform essential repairs like fixing leaks and unclogging drains. Some are even qualified to take on more extensive projects such as installing water heaters and servicing water mains. 

Thanks to its wide pool of plumbers with different expertise levels, Networx is an outstanding resource for people with assorted plumbing requirements.

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Summary

Networx is the top platform for Texas residents who need to find a Dallas plumber. It matches you with plumbing contractors who can conduct many kinds of services. Although there may be limited availability in some remote areas, many Texas homeowners can benefit from the online directory, which can match them with plumbers*.

2. Thumbtack – Best for Versatile Scheduling

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Pros:

  • Adjustable scheduling options
  • Swift and simple appointment bookings on a streamlined platform
  • Various Dallas plumbers available for different needs
  • Smart matching algorithm provides fitting options

Cons:

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  • Certain users report that response times are sometimes delayed

Why Pick Thumbtack?

Thumbtack makes it easy to schedule appointments with a Dallas plumber, giving you flexibility in choosing a time that works best for you. The advanced matching algorithm connects you with plumbers who can meet your particular needs, simplifying the process of finding the right fit. 

Services Offered

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You can search for Dallas plumbers with varying levels of expertise on Thumbtack. There are a lot of plumbing services you can choose from, including routine maintenance, shower repairs, emergency assistance, gas line installation, and septic system servicing. 

Summary

Thumbtack showcases a user-friendly booking system that streamlines the process of setting appointments with skilled plumbing contractors in Texas. These Dallas plumbers have flexible schedules, making it more convenient for customers like you to find a time that works for you.

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3. Taskrabbit – Best for Simple Jobs

(credit: PR)

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Pros:

  • Connects users with contractors specializing in small tasks
  • Fast access to on-demand plumbing services
  • Hourly rates for cost-effective solutions
  • Streamlined interface

Cons:

  • Most plumbers can only handle minor plumbing issues

Why Pick TaskRabbit?

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Taskrabbit is an advantageous platform for Texas homeowners looking for a Dallas plumber who can speedily solve small plumbing problems. It connects users with plumbing contractors who can provide immediate assistance in Dallas. 

Services Offered

Taskrabbit focuses on minor plumbing tasks, allowing customers to seek fast solutions for issues like leaks, clogs, or repairs. It enables you to find Dallas plumbers who can help you resolve straightforward emergencies. 

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Summary

Taskrabbit is a budget-friendly choice for people in Texas who need a Dallas plumber to perform small tasks. The platform concentrates on providing on-demand services at affordable hourly rates, making it ideal for those dealing with minor plumbing issues. 

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>>Check the best deals with Taskrabbit

Services To Expect From Dallas Plumbers

There are six common types of plumbing repair services that a Dallas plumber can provide:

  • Water heater repairs
  • Leak repairs
  • Gas services
  • Clogs
  • Fixture repairs 
  • Miscellaneous repairs

Most Dallas plumbers provide quotes by considering their material costs, hourly rate, and other additional expenses that may arise, such as permits or the disposal of old equipment. 

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Gas Inspection and Installation

Gas is typically delivered to homes via a network of small pipes, which grow even smaller as they get closer to houses. While major disasters are rare, it’s vital to address small leaks promptly to avoid serious hazards. 

Leaks are more likely to happen if the gas line in your home have the following problems: 

  • Not well-maintained
  • Composed of older materials
  • Has corroded or worn sections
  • Not installed properly
  • Has loose parts or ill-fitting valves

Regular inspections for your gas line are a simple way to ensure that your system is functioning well, even if you don’t anticipate any issues. 

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Drain Cleaning

The cost of unclogging a drain typically ranges from $110 to $800, according to the type of drain, the severity of the clog, and the rate of the Dallas plumber. 

Hiring a professional plumber to clear a toilet or sink blockage usually costs between $110 and $275, while removing a bathtub or shower clog typically costs around $225. 

For more serious clogs in the main line, prices can range from $100 to $800 based on the extent of the blockage and its location beyond the access point. Plumbers usually charge an hourly rate for drain cleaning due to the varying amount of labor involved. 

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Bathroom Installation

A lot of Dallas plumbers have the expertise to handle safety upgrades or complete bathroom renovations:

  • CleanCut: The process of turning an existing bathtub into a shower plus bath with a lower threshold usually only takes a few hours
  • Re-Bath: A complete bathroom remodel involves renovating three or more areas, such as the toilet, flooring, and vanity

Inspection and Maintenance

Yearly inspections by Dallas plumbers can help reduce the risk of costly plumbing issues. The plumbing system in your home is likely to experience a lot of wear and tear, especially if multiple people live there. A local plumber can conduct regular inspections and prevent problems from escalating. 

Leak Repair

Professional plumbers are trained to fix leaks and identify the root cause to prevent further issues. Even small leaks can grow and become expensive to repair eventually if not properly repaired. 

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Emergency Plumbing Services

Dallas plumbers from plumbing companies often offer emergency services as well. The most problematic plumbing issues are the ones that occur in the middle of the night. It is crucial to find a Dallas plumber who can handle emergencies at any time. 

The Average Cost of a Plumber in Dallas

Plumbing expenses in Dallas are typically higher than the national average. The region where the project is taking place is a critical factor in determining the cost. 

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Contractors often increase the prices of materials to cover expenses related to purchasing, storing, and delivering them, whether they specialize in window replacement Philadelphia or plumbing tasks in Dallas. For example, a plumber might buy a toilet for $150 but charge $165 for it. 

While there is no standard markup, many contractors usually increase material prices by 5% to 20%. Plumbing companies also mark up labor costs to cover overhead and generate profit. The average hourly wage for a plumber is slightly over $30, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Still, many plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour

The range in markup varies among companies due to factors such as the cost of living, the Dallas plumber’s experience level, and the company’s reputation and ratings. 

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Plumbers with more experience or those holding a master plumber license will likely charge higher rates. The location of the project also influences the final fee, as a journeyperson plumber in Dallas is likely to have a higher markup than one in a different location. 

Flat Rates

Some plumbers have the option to charge a fixed rate instead of an hourly rate plus the cost of materials. For instance, they might charge $80 to repair a faucet or $150 to unclog a toilet. The benefit of this upfront pricing system is that you are more likely to receive an accurate estimate. 

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Additionally, you are only required to pay the fixed fee even if complications arise or the plumber requires more time to finish the job. 

Emergency Dallas Plumbing Services

Certain plumbing companies in Dallas offer specialized packages for urgent problems that cannot be delayed, such as:

  • Overflowing sink water
  • Hose bib leaks
  • No hot water
  • Toilet backing up
  • Drain clogs
  • Bathroom sink clogs
  • Leaking dishwasher or washing machine
  • Bathtub or shower issues
  • Septic tank problems
  • Leaking pipes
  • Overflowing toilet water
  • Tree roots
  • Leaking water heater
  • Sewage
  • Kitchen sink clogs

>>Find a Dallas plumber using Networx

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Find Affordable Dallas Plumbers and Dallas Plumbing Services

Find a Dallas plumber who is certified and near your location by using this Plumber Near Me tool below.

Water Usage in Dallas, TX

According to the City of Dallas Office of Communications, Outreach, and Marketing, the total amount of water used in Dallas County each day is 380 million gallons as of 2023 [1]. 

This includes both indoor and outdoor water usage in homes, such as drinking, bathing, washing clothes and dishes, watering lawns, flushing toilets, preparing food, and gardens, and maintaining pools. 

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Identifying the Best Dallas Plumbing Companies

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 10,490 plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters in Dallas who offer various kinds of plumbing services [2]. To find the Dallas plumber or your specific needs, evaluate the following factors. 

When Do You Need Plumbing Services in Dallas?

It’s possible for DIYers to handle minor plumbing tasks like repairing a toilet or replacing a shower head. However, when it comes to more complicated plumbing issues like fixing leaks, replacing pipes, or installing new water lines, it’s best to rely on experienced and trained professional plumbers.

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Call a Dallas plumber in case of:

  • Leaking water heater
  • Remodeling or moving pipes
  • Overflowing toilet
  • Clogged drains
  • Flooding

What Questions Should You Ask a Dallas Plumber?

Dallas plumbers in compliance with Dallas, TX law are licensed, bonded, and insured. They openly communicate their experience and are willing to provide a written quote. 

Before hiring a Dallas plumber, it is crucial to ask them the following questions: 

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  • Do you have a plumber’s license?
  • Are you receiving workman’s compensation?
  • Can you give me a free estimate?
  • Do you have a minimum call out fee?
  • Are you charging by the hour?
  • How much is your rate per hour?
  • May I request a written quote?
  • Are the products you plan to use covered by warranties?
  • Do you offer service guarantees to your customers?

Do You Actually Need a Plumber?

Experienced homeowners may feel confident taking on certain DIY plumbing projects. However, if you are unfamiliar with a plumbing issue, it is best to call a professional plumber.

This is especially true for complex problems such as drain backups, installing new plumbing, or working on gas lines. These larger projects require the expertise of a specialist who can safely address all plumbing system concerns. 

Plumbers can assist with a variety of common services such as:

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  • Sump pump installation
  • General plumbing maintenance
  • Slab leaks
  • Shower repair
  • Leak detection services
  • Garbage disposal services
  • Camera inspections
  • Fixture installation, inspection, and replacement
  • Water heater repair services
  • Pipe repair and replacement
  • Drain cleaning services
  • Dishwasher, washer, and dryer installations
  • Sewer and septic repair
  • Replacement of sewer or water line 

What Do Dallas Plumbing Reviews Say?

Make sure that you select Dallas plumbers who have experience with the specific type of project you need help with. To get a better idea of their reputation, read several reviews from past customers. 

Pay attention to the overall sentiment of the reviews, both positive and negative, to make a balanced decision. 

Do the Plumbers Have Licensing and Insurance?

Verifying a plumber’s license and insurance is crucial before hiring a contractor. Safety is an important priority in plumbing, so most states require plumbers to be licensed.

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When hiring a plumber for your home, ask to see the person’s license from the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners and proof of business insurance before starting any work. 

Plumbers must undergo ongoing training, have years of experience, and stay updated on new codes and trends to maintain their license. 

A valid license includes state-mandated insurance and bonding, which protect both the homeowner and the plumber in case of any unexpected incidents during a plumbing repair. 

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The more qualifications and accolades a plumber has, the more likely the contractor will provide quality service. Remember to choose a plumber with extensive knowledge and a professional approach to plumbing. 

Can I Get Local Plumbing Quotes in Dallas?

Contact multiple local plumbers in Dallas to ask for average cost estimates for your project. Compare quotes from each plumbing company and select one that fits your budget.

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>>Check the best deals with Networx

Home Plumbing System Water Leaks

Your home’s plumbing system consists of various parts, each of which has the potential for leaks and bursts. If these issues are not addressed promptly, they can range from being slightly inconvenient to causing significant water damage.

The following are the most common plumbing concerns. 

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  • Burst pipes: Before the plumber arrives, make sure to turn off your water supply. If you don’t know how to do this, you need to first find the water shut-off
  • Toilet leaks: Leaking toilets can be an expensive plumbing issue if not addressed promptly
  • Faucet leaks: Fixing faucet leaks is generally simple and should not be delayed. Delaying the repair can result in higher water bills due to prolonged leakage
  • Outdoor leaks: An outdoor leak can be easily detected when you receive a more costly water bill than usual, even though your water usage remains the same as the month before
  • Water heater leaks: A plumber can inspect your water heater thoroughly and interpret noises that give a clue to the cause of the problem

Methodology on Ranking the Best Platforms for Dallas Plumbers

To ensure that every plumber or plumbing company we select meets industry standards, we considered the main factors below:

Response Times

Companies that respond quickly receive more points than companies that take longer or have inconsistent response times. 

Verified Customer Reviews

Companies with a higher percentage of positive reviews on Google and other legitimate review sites received more points than those with a higher rate of negative reviews when we analyzed the number of reviews and ratings for each Dallas plumber. 

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Office Hours

Plumbers who have longer operating hours are considered more accessible and therefore receive a higher score. 

Official Website

Plumbers who maintain an official website receive a higher score because it shows professionalism and gives customers more information.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Dallas Plumbers

Learn the answers to popular queries about plumbers in Dallas, Texas.

Why Should I Use an Online Platform to Hire Dallas Plumbers?

The best online platforms like Networx make it easier to hire plumbers in Dallas. A service directory typically provides many search results, streamlining the process of comparing and choosing the right contractor. 

What Are Dallas Plumbing Rules?

Plumbing rules vary depending on the location and building codes. In Dallas, the plumbing rules are set by the Dallas Plumbing Code, which regulates the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems to ensure safety and efficiency.

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Do Plumbers Deal With Water?

Yes, plumbers usually deal with water as they install, repair, and maintain water supply systems, drainage systems, and other plumbing fixtures. These professionals work with pipes, valves, faucets, toilets, showers, and other components to ensure the proper flow and distribution of water in residential and commercial buildings.

Dallas Plumbers: Final Note

Looking for the best Dallas plumber in a fast, straightforward way is possible with the assistance of the top online platforms, including our top pick Networx.

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Networx connects you with plumbing contractors who offer various services, transparent pricing, and a user-friendly experience.

Still, all the platforms we reviewed have got you covered, whether you need a plumber for small jobs or extensive projects. These service directories can help you find a Dallas plumber who can take care of your plumbing needs efficiently and professionally.

References:

  1. Falcon, Julia. “City of Dallas Asks Residents, Businesses to Conserve Water as Demand Increases.” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 15 July 2022, www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/city-of-dallas-asks-residents-businesses-to-conserve-water-as-demand-increases/. 
  2. “Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 25 Apr. 2023, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes472152.htm#st. 

*Upon application, customer information will be submitted to Networx and Networx Buyers and users are consenting to contact by Networx, Networx Buyers and any other service professionals via calls, texts, and emails using artificial voice calls, pre-recorded calls, or calls placed with the assistance of auto-dialer technology at the telephone number and email address provided. Such consent is not a condition of purchasing any property, goods or services.

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Author Details

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Robert James

robert@paradisemedia.com

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Robert is a full-time freelance writer and editor specializing in the health niche and its ever-expanding sub-niches. As a food and nutrition scientist, he knows where to find the resources necessary to verify health claims. 

Editor Details

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Shannon Ancrum

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shannon@paradisemedia.com 

This is a sponsored article. The article should not be considered as advice.

Shannon Ancrum is a freelance writer and editor specializing in content related to the healthcare and holistic wellness industry. She’s gifted at unraveling complex medical jargon and making it crystal-clear for the mere mortal. When she’s not traveling the world, you can find her crafting compelling blogs and articles for alternative health and wellness businesses. 





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Dallas, TX

Dallas ISD will offer free pre-K starting next school year

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Dallas ISD will offer free pre-K starting next school year


Starting next year, every 3- and 4-year-old in Dallas ISD will be able to enroll in pre-K tuition-free.

The district’s board adopted a new universal free pre-K plan at a board meeting Thursday. The proposal passed by an 8-0 vote, with no discussion.

Currently, the district offers free pre-K to students who qualify under certain federal, state and district guidelines, and charges tuition to all other students. Under the policy adopted Thursday, the district will drop its tuition rate for non-qualifying students to $0 beginning with the next school year.

The district’s current pre-K tuition rate is $5,000 a year for full-day classes for 3- and 4-year-olds, and $2,500 a year for half-day classes for 3-year-olds. During a March 12 board briefing, Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde told the board that about 267 families are paying pre-K tuition this year.

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Elizalde told The Dallas Morning News this month that it costs the district more to manage those families’ tuition payments than those payments bring in. The district’s pre-K classes have enough open seats that district leaders don’t expect to have to hire more teachers after the new policy goes into effect, meaning the financial impact to the district is expected to be minimal.

Dallas ISD isn’t the first North Texas school district to offer tuition-free pre-K. Fort Worth ISD implemented universal free pre-K more than a decade ago, and Arlington ISD offers free, full-day pre-K for all 4-year-olds and half-day classes for 3-year-olds that are free to students who qualify with a tuition rate of $2,295 for those who don’t.

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Dallas ISD’s pre-K registration for the 2026-27 school year opens April 1.

The DMN Education Lab deepens the coverage and conversation about urgent education issues critical to the future of North Texas.

The DMN Education Lab is a community-funded journalism initiative, with support from Bobby and Lottye Lyle, Communities Foundation of Texas, The Dallas Foundation, Dallas Regional Chamber, Deedie Rose, Garrett and Cecilia Boone, Judy and Jim Gibbs, The Meadows Foundation, The Murrell Foundation, Ron and Phyllis Steinhart, Solutions Journalism Network, Southern Methodist University, Sydney Smith Hicks, and the University of Texas at Dallas. The Dallas Morning News retains full editorial control of the Education Lab’s journalism.



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Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson is confident about cost estimates to repair, rehab City Hall and insists the process has been transparent

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Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson is confident about cost estimates to repair, rehab City Hall and insists the process has been transparent


Mayor Eric Johnson said he hasn’t made up his mind about the future of Dallas City Hall, the iconic I.M. Pei-designed landmark, but remains confident in the cost estimates to fix it.

City‑hired experts said it will cost $329 million to repair the nearly 50‑year‑old building and about $1 billion to rehabilitate and modernize it for the next 20 years.

Johnson said he trusts the numbers.

“I believe that those numbers are accurate,” Johnson said. “I just want to say that right up front, because I do know that there’s questions about whether or not these numbers are or have been inflated, or should we trust these numbers? I don’t know where we’d get another set of numbers that would be more trustworthy. 

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“These companies that have looked at this are very reputable, and so, I believe the numbers. I really believe that our jobs as a council and as a city are to do the best thing that we can, the best thing we can for our taxpayers. Not a good thing, but the best thing with the taxpayers’ dollars.”

The mayor said he, like everyone else, is waiting for more information. Earlier this month, he and eight council members voted to have the city manager determine how much it would cost to move City Hall to another building and compare that to staying and making repairs.

The city manager is also evaluating whether the current site could support private development. That report is due to the council no later than May, and the Finance Committee may be briefed on May 26. The full council could vote in June.

Development potential enters the conversation  

Many people have floated the idea of a new arena and entertainment district downtown for the Dallas Mavericks, though no proposals exist. 

Former mayors Ron Kirk, Tom Leppert, and Mike Rawlings have urged city leaders to move City Hall, saying it could attract billions in new development.

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Johnson said he wants data, not instinct.

“I can’t govern the city based on a hunch or instinct or gut feel. I have to look at data. I would like to see what comes back and what they say this site could unlock,” he said. “Does my gut tell me that the best use of this part of downtown, is not to be a government center, which I think is kind of a dated concept in and of itself, to have a cluster of government buildings right in the middle of what could be the most vibrant part of your downtown that by definition closes at 5 p.m. 

“My gut tells me that’s not a great idea. But I want the city manager to go through the exercise of actually exploring what private development options there would be. What interest would there be in this site? If there are really great economic development opportunities for the city that would be unlocked by us leaving this site, I would be very, very compelled by that.”

Preservationists push back strongly  

Residents and preservationists have been vocal in their opposition. Former Mayor Laura Miller told CBS News Texas she doesn’t want City Hall sold or torn down and believes the process has lacked transparency and been “riddled with self‑interest.”

Johnson rejected that.

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“I’m not sure why former Mayor Miller feels that way because I can tell you that the process has been the definition of transparent,” he said. “It’s just not true that this process hasn’t been transparent. You can go back to what I initially sent out, a memo. I put it in writing. I distributed it publicly, saying to the council, I want a committee to look at options for City Hall. 

“So, that was very transparent. The meetings that were called subsequent to my request were all open to the public. Discussions were had at those meetings, and every single thing that has happened has been compelled by council action.”

Emails raise questions about engagement  

The Dallas Morning News recently reported on 5,000 pages of emails related to the project and others, raising questions about how engaged the mayor has been.

Johnson dismissed the criticism.

“I’m fully engaged in everything that goes on around here. I’ve been fully engaged, and honestly, I’m going to decline to go quibble with the Dallas Morning News,” he said. “I don’t even know what these emails that they have found say. I do know what I do every day, which is I wake up early in the morning, come to this building, and give this city everything I have. 

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“I work tirelessly on behalf of the city, and I do everything I possibly can to make sure this city is represented well here, locally, nationally, internationally.”

Sports negotiations happening in parallel  

The debate over City Hall comes as city leaders negotiate with the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars to keep both teams in the city. Johnson said he cannot discuss negotiations publicly.

“Keeping the Dallas Stars and keeping the Dallas Mavericks playing in the city of Dallas is one of the highest priorities of my administration, and it has been since I got here,” he said. “I can tell you this: We are going to do everything we possibly can to make these deals work for both of those teams and keep them in the city. I am confident that we will work this out.”

Watch Eye On Politics at 7:30 Sunday morning on CBS News Texas on air and streaming.

Follow Jack on X: @cbs11jack

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3 takeaways as the Mavericks lose a fun one, 142-135, at the Denver Nuggets

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3 takeaways as the Mavericks lose a fun one, 142-135, at the Denver Nuggets


The Dallas Mavericks (23-50) dropped their fifth straight game Wednesday, falling 142-135 to the Denver Nuggets (45-28) in a game that felt within reach early before completely getting away from them late. Dallas had a few solid stretches to start, showing some offensive rhythm and energy, but couldn’t sustain it as Denver’s shot-making and overall execution took over. Cooper Flagg continued his strong stretch with 26 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists, while P.J. Washington added 19 points and 15 rebounds with steady production inside. On the other side, Jamal Murray put together a dominant performance with 53 points, and Nikola Jokić orchestrated everything with 23 points, 21 rebounds and 19 assists, as the Nuggets controlled the game from the middle quarters on.

The Mavericks hung around for stretches in the first half, but a Jamal Murray explosion ultimately tilted the game, as the Denver Nuggets took a 68-59 lead into halftime in a game that quickly started to feel like it was slipping away. Dallas opened with solid energy, getting contributions from multiple spots, as Naji Marshall scored efficiently and Cooper Flagg made his presence felt early as both a scorer and a playmaker, helping keep things within reach. Flagg had a noticeable impact in those opening minutes—knocking down pull-ups, attacking downhill, and creating looks for others—while Marshall’s shot-making kept the offense afloat during key stretches.

But every time the Mavericks made a push, Murray had an answer. He completely took over the second quarter, piling up 33 first-half points on 11-of-15 shooting and 6-of-9 from deep, hitting pull-ups, step-backs, and tough contested shots that Dallas simply couldn’t slow down. At the same time, Nikola Jokić quietly controlled everything else, finishing the half with 11 assists and 9 rebounds, consistently creating easy looks and keeping Denver’s offense flowing even without scoring much himself.

Dallas had some bright spots, though. There were moments especially in the third where Dallas strung together a few stops and got downhill, but it never turned into anything real, as missed shots, turnovers, and Denver’s instant responses kept resetting the margin.

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If this game didn’t make it obvious, nothing will Dallas desperately needs a guard who can defend at the point of attack. Jamal Murray didn’t just have a good night, he had complete control, getting wherever he wanted and scoring however he wanted, finishing with 53 points on 19-of-28 shooting and 9-of-14 from three. There was no real resistance at the top of the defense no one who could consistently stay in front, disrupt his rhythm, or even make him uncomfortable. Once he got downhill or into his pull-up game, it was over, and that kind of pressure completely breaks a defense before it even has a chance to rotate.

This is where roster construction starts to matter. Dallas has length and some versatility in the frontcourt, but without a guard who can actually contain the ball, none of it holds up. You can’t ask your bigs to clean everything up every possession, especially against elite shot-makers. That’s why this draft becomes so important. It’s not just about adding talen it’s about adding the right kind of player. Someone who can fight over screens, stay attached, and at least make life harder for guys like Murray at the point of attack.

Because nights like this aren’t just about one player getting hot they expose a structural issue. And until Dallas finds a guard who can defend at that level, this is going to keep happening.

Someone seeds to close, eventually

The Mavericks have played a ton of close games this season, but the results just haven’t followed, and that’s something that continues to show up late in these losses. Too often, possessions in crunch time turn into rushed shots, stalled actions, or empty trips, while a single defensive breakdown on the other end swings momentum the other way. It’s not just one game it’s been a pattern, and it speaks to a team that’s still learning how to execute when everything tightens up.

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That said, context matters right now. Dallas isn’t necessarily trying to squeeze out every late-game win at this point in the season, and losses like these actually help their lottery positioning. There’s value in being competitive and getting those reps without sacrificing long-term upside, especially in a strong draft class.

But long term, this is something to watch especially with Cooper Flagg. He’s already showing flashes as a primary creator, but closing games is the next step: controlling tempo, getting to the right spots, and making the right reads under pressure. It’s okay that it’s messy right now given where the team is, but if the Mavericks want to take a real step forward next season, turning these close games into wins has to be part of that growth.

Cooper Flagg continues to shine

Cooper Flagg continues to look more and more like the centerpiece of what Dallas is building, and nights like this are a big part of why. He finished with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, impacting the game in just about every way despite the result. What stands out isn’t just the production it’s how he’s getting it. He’s initiating offense, pushing in transition, making reads out of drives, and consistently putting pressure on the defense as both a scorer and playmaker.

This stretch has been especially encouraging. Over the past few games, Flagg has been steadily trending upward, not just in scoring, but in overall control of the game. He’s starting to look more comfortable as the primary option, picking his spots better and showing more patience when defenses collapse. Even when shots don’t fall, he’s still influencing possessions through rebounds, assists, and defensive activity.

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There are still things to clean up, especially late-game execution and shot selection in tighter moments, but that’s expected at this stage. The important part is that the flashes are becoming more consistent. For a team leaning into development, Flagg isn’t just putting up numbers he’s showing real signs of growth as a lead initiator, and that’s the biggest takeaway moving forward.



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