A newly formed coalition of North Dallas neighborhood groups is inviting residents to a press conference to voice concerns over several upcoming zoning cases and other issues affecting Dallas City Council District 13.
Photo from D13 Together website
Correction: The original photo posted with the story has been removed as the building renderings were outdated. This story has been updated on August 4, 2026.
According to a press release, D13 Together was formed by residents and neighborhood organizations across District 13 who say they were concerned about recent rezoning proposals and what they describe as a lack of neighborhood input. The coalition says more than 4,400 residents have signed petitions opposing the proposed Preston Road and Royal Lane development, while thousands of others have expressed concerns about the future of Dallas City Hall.
The coalition’s immediate focus is on four issues expected to come before city officials this month, including the proposed mixed-use development at Preston Road and Royal Lane, rezoning requests in the Walnut Hill and Marsh Lane area and Melshire Estates, and discussions surrounding the future of Dallas City Hall.
According to the coalition, residents are concerned about the proposed height of the Preston Road and Royal Lane development, changes made to project plans after city staff review and whether the development is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood. Coalition members also criticized what they described as a rushed decision-making process.
Organizers are asking Willis to seek a 120-day delay on the three zoning cases so neighborhood groups and developers can work toward compromise solutions.
“We support responsible development that strengthens our neighborhoods as we grow
as a city,” Coalition member Doug Hazelbaker said. “What we oppose are rushed decisions that intentionally ignore residents, disregard long-term consequences, and prioritize outside interests over the people who live and work here.”
The first zoning case is expected to be considered by the Dallas City Plan Commission on Aug. 6. The proposal would allow a mixed-use development at Preston Road and Royal Lane with buildings reaching approximately 240 feet, including a hotel, condominiums, apartments, retail and office space. Additional zoning requests involving Walnut Hill and Marsh Lane and Melshire Estates are scheduled to go before Dallas City Council on Aug. 12.
Hazelbaker said the group was created to give residents a stronger voice in decisions affecting their neighborhoods.
“District 13 voters have historically been among the most engaged in Dallas,” Hazelbaker said in the press release. “After five years of frustration with our elected council member, we are standing together; we have tremendous influence, and we will take any and all appropriate action to ensure that our voices are not ignored.”
According to the coalition, if the requested zoning delays are not granted, members intend to begin the process outlined in the Dallas City Charter to pursue a recall effort against Willis.
In a statement to the Preston Hollow Advocate, Willis said she has met with residents and responded to hundreds of emails regarding the proposed zoning applications.
“Strong feelings are often a part of zoning decisions. I listen to every neighbor, and I respect every viewpoint. I have responded to hundreds of emails and had many hours of meetings to ensure this. But I won’t respond to intimidation or personal attacks,” Willis said.
“Preston Hollow deserves a conversation grounded in facts, civility and long-term stewardship—not fear. My commitment is to lead responsibly, protect the public process, and ensure this neighborhood’s future reflects the values we all share.”
