Omar spoke with Community Impact on his vision for his term as Richardson mayor.
Responses may have been edited for length, clarity and style.
What was your reaction to winning the Richardson mayoral race?
There was an immediate feeling of the incredible honor it is to serve our great city in this way. Following so many great leaders that have held this role, I recognize the importance of keeping things on track and continuing to move the city forward.
What are some of the priorities you want to focus on as mayor?
My campaign focused a great deal on accessibility and transparency as well as the work I hope to do to complement our economic development efforts. I am also looking forward to working independently as well as in concert with the City Council on policies that can support these and other initiatives important to our residents.
What is the biggest issue facing Richardson at the moment and how do you plan to address it?
Richardson is already a respected and highly thought of city. As any great city, we recognize a need to continue to evolve as market changes occur. We are actively promoting our IQ district as well as working with our commercial office owners on ways to stay attractive and relevant for future tenants. Continuing on these paths will best address the largest issues we face.
What values will guide your decision-making as mayor?
It is important that we look at every decision through the lens of the plans we have invested heavily in. We should always consider how even small changes to the plan can affect future viability as well as perceptions of small businesses or residents that have invested into the plan. I also feel it is important that we drive towards things that add up to being a city that our kids or grandkids would want to call their home when they have a choice.
What do you want your legacy to be at the end of your term?
I don’t necessarily think of things like “legacy” per se. As I have this honor to serve, I am hopeful that along the way people feel I have been thoughtful, proactive and accessible in my actions.
How do you plan to balance short-term fixes with long-term investments?
Our city does a great job balancing these items currently. When you think of infrastructure for example, prior councils have done a great job doing as much "pay as you go” budgeting while also recognizing that some longer term investments are important to consider and prioritize.
What role do you see for community input in shaping city policies?
This is the community’s city and their role is critical and their input is a priority. Richardson has done a great job soliciting input when it comes to things like our comprehensive plan or specific studies and master plans. I believe it is important to always look for unique ways we can improve gaining feedback by going to the residents where they are and soliciting that additional input.
