Stephen Mason, Mayor, City of Cedar Hill

In an interview with Invest:, Mayor Stephen Mason of Cedar Hill emphasized the city’s natural beauty and strategic investments in infrastructure to attract businesses and foster growth. He highlighted community enhancements like the innovative new library and strong public safety measures. “Cedar Hill is open for business and poised for success,” he said.

What makes Cedar Hill stand out as a unique city in North Texas?

What I really value about Cedar Hill are our natural assets: our rolling hills, our topography, and the open spaces we’ve embraced. The natural habitat here is truly special, and it sets us apart. There’s a feeling you get from our environment that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

What specific industries or sectors are driving economic development in Cedar Hill?

We’ve been incredibly fortunate recently to attract several corporate regional headquarters. It’s a trend we’re seeing, and while I wouldn’t say we’ve done anything radically different, we’ve certainly invested in the infrastructure to support such developments. For instance, one company recently received their certificate of occupancy, and we’re optimistic that they’ll become an anchor for bringing additional businesses and their associates to the community. It’s exciting to see these trends play out within our city limits.

What are some additions to your infrastructure to support growth and keep up with the needs of residents and businesses?

About 20 years ago, the city council had the vision to create a business park, which is now almost at full capacity. When I came into office around 2019-2020, right at the start of the pandemic, we re-evaluated some industrial-zoned land. Instead of focusing solely on industrial development, we shifted toward manufacturing. This zoning change, combined with the right infrastructure investments, brought in new manufacturing clients. One success led to others, and now we’re seeing businesses take advantage of these improvements, opening facilities and even starting production this year.

How are public-private partnerships helping drive growth?

One key partnership is with Hillwood, which recognized Cedar Hill’s potential around 2019-2020. Together, we’ve identified future opportunities, particularly around the upcoming Loop 9 highway project. Adjacent to Loop 9 and Highway 67, Hillwood is driving significant development. This collaboration, along with our shared vision, has helped us attract and secure manufacturing prospects. These partnerships are crucial for our continued success.

What projects or programs are enhancing community spaces and improving quality of life?

We’re very proud of our new library, which opened this past summer. It’s not a traditional library, it’s an innovative space with four rooftops that can host events and gatherings. Thanks to Cedar Hill’s topography, the rooftop offers stunning views, including the Dallas skyline. Inside, we’ve created indoor-outdoor meeting spaces that integrate seamlessly with adjacent park facilities. Together, the library and park projects form a regional attraction where people can host meetings, study, or create lasting memories with family and friends. This project reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents while making Cedar Hill a destination.

How is Cedar Hill working with local schools and institutions to develop a strong workforce for growing industries?

Organically, our city manager, school superintendent, school board president, and I meet about every two months. These meetings help us align schedules, explore partnership opportunities, and share networks, which often overlap in our community. After the New Year, we’re planning a joint Cedar Hill Council and Cedar Hill ISD meeting to publicly discuss the great things happening in our city and school district.

How are you creating spaces for residents to provide feedback to the city?

Recently, the council held a series of meetings we called “Let’s Connect.” We hosted four meetings across the city, open to all residents, not just those in specific areas. I began with a 20-25 minute presentation, and afterward, residents could ask questions directly or visit stations set up with council members and staff to share feedback and discuss concerns. It was a great way to engage with the community, and we continue to explore ways to stay connected.

How are essential services like public safety and healthcare being supported to ensure Cedar Hill remains a safe and welcoming community?

Public safety is a top priority, with 60-65% of our budget allocated to police, fire, and EMT services. This year, we made structural changes by appointing our police chief as the Director of Public Safety, overseeing both police and fire departments.

We’ve also invested in upgraded radio technology that allows seamless communication between local, state, and even national agencies during emergencies. For example, this system lets us coordinate with Dallas, Fort Worth, or even California if needed.

Another addition is a new blocker truck to protect first responders on Highway 67 during accidents, which we secured through a partnership with Duncanville. It’s a crucial step as traffic increases with the highway expansion.

We also continue to invest in equipment, like new fire station apparatuses, to ensure our teams have the tools they need. These investments reflect our commitment to staying ahead of the growing demands on our city.

How is Cedar Hill working with neighboring cities, the county, and state or federal agencies to advance mutual interests?

We have interlocal agreements with neighboring cities and the county, as well as partnerships at the state level. For example, we have a brush truck for managing fires in rugged terrains — a necessity given our natural resources. Under our agreement with the state, if there’s a wildfire in West Texas, we may get the call to assist. Our team is ready to respond, and we’re grateful to the families who support our members when they’re called to serve in these situations.

What is your outlook for Cedar Hill in the coming years, and what are your top priorities?

Our top priority is to remain a safe city. Beyond that, we’re focusing on expanding services for our active senior community, including plans to enhance their activity center. We’re also looking to strengthen support for our nonprofits, chambers, veterans, and other community organizations. These areas will guide the Council’s focus in the years ahead.

Cedar Hill is a beautiful city with so much to offer. We have room to grow and continue delivering value to our residents and businesses. For anyone interested in advancing here, we’re open for business.