A coalition seeking to preserve Dallas City Hall is warning city officials of possible legal action if the City Hall Plaza is sold or redeveloped without public approval.

In a letter delivered Thursday to the mayor, Dallas City Council members, and interim City Attorney Bert Vandenberg, the Save Dallas City Hall Coalition argued that the plaza is legally recognized as park land and also qualifies as a historic site. According to the group’s attorneys, Texas law requires voter approval before any sale of park property can move forward. They also said redevelopment involving park land would require a public hearing.The warning marks the second legal threat issued by the coalition this week as tensions continue to grow over the future of Dallas City Hall.

A city spokesperson declined to comment Friday, citing the possibility of litigation.

Debate Intensifies Over Future of Dallas City Hall

Dallas officials are currently evaluating whether to renovate the aging City Hall building or relocate city operations elsewhere. The structure, designed by renowned architect I. M. Pei, has faced mounting maintenance concerns for years.

At the same time, some business leaders have promoted redevelopment concepts connected to a potential new sports arena project, adding another layer to the ongoing debate.

Preservation advocates argue that both City Hall and its surrounding plaza are important civic landmarks that should remain protected. Last year, the city’s Landmark Commission approved the initial steps toward granting Dallas City Hall official landmark status, although the final decision still rests with the City Council.

Repair Costs Could Exceed $1 Billion

City officials are expected to review repair strategies during Wednesday’s council meeting. Consultants previously estimated that immediate repairs to the building could cost approximately $329 million. A full modernization effort over the next two decades could surpass $1 billion.

The coalition’s earlier letter, sent Tuesday, accused the city of neglecting its obligations under Dallas’ historic preservation ordinance. Attorneys cited multiple unresolved issues, including waterproofing failures, aging emergency generators, and deteriorating public restroom facilities.

The legal team representing the coalition includes four attorneys, among them former interim City Attorney Chris Bowers. They have given city leaders 60 days to address the concerns before potentially filing a lawsuit.