Mark Hill assumed the role of Frisco mayor during a ceremony at City Hall on Tuesday evening, drawing a packed crowd of residents and officials from Collin and Denton counties. The event marked the end of Jeff Cheney’s nine-year tenure, which concluded due to term limits. Cheney, who has served in local government for nearly two decades, oversaw significant expansion, including population growth from 100,000 to 245,000 residents and the development of major landmarks such as the Dallas Cowboys’ training facility and a $62 million public library.
Hill, an attorney and former Frisco ISD board trustee, took the oath of office to a standing ovation from the audience. In his address, he emphasized his campaign theme of unity, stating that Frisco’s diversity is a strength. He pledged to make the city an attractive destination for new families and businesses, aiming to expand the local tax base and create jobs. Hill also committed to restoring decorum to council meetings, though it remains unclear if he will reinstate the public comment periods that were suspended last month.
The new mayor’s election followed a period of intense debate at City Hall, where activists protested alleged H-1B visa fraud and the increasing South Asian demographic. Hill defeated Rod Vilhauer in a June 13 runoff. Vilhauer had faced criticism for comparing South Asian immigrants to rats and characterizing Islam as a terrorist group rather than a religion. Hill’s campaign focused on uniting the community and presenting a fresh perspective distinct from the rivalries that have characterized previous council dynamics.
Unlike his predecessors, Hill has not served on the City Council, having previously held positions on the school board and the city’s economic development corporation. He addressed his new colleagues by asking them to challenge him to dream big and listen to their disagreements. Hill stated that he would not slow down the city’s growth trajectory and vowed to work closely with the council to ensure Frisco remains a dynamic and welcoming place for all residents.
