Mark Hill prepares to take office as Frisco enters a new chapter

Mark Hill discusses demographic changes and economic development ahead of taking office.

by · 5 NBCDFW

Frisco will soon have a new mayor for the first time in nearly a decade.

Mark Hill will be sworn into office on July 7 after winning a contentious runoff election. The attorney and former Frisco ISD school board member said one of his top priorities is bringing the city together following a divisive campaign.

"It's building some continuity, lowering the temperature, I think from what the city's been dealing with over the last numerous months," Hill said.

Hill said his campaign centered on the goal of unifying Frisco after a multi-candidate race and runoff against conservative businessman Rod Vilhauer.

The election unfolded as Frisco continues to experience significant demographic change. The city's South Asian population has grown from about 2% of residents 20 years ago to about 33% today, prompting some critics to claim there is an "Indian takeover" of the city.

When asked how the community should respond to that change, Hill said Frisco is not alone.

"I think everybody handles it differently. I mean, that's a good question. I think the city is experiencing that. Honestly, North Texas is experiencing it. If you look at the data, it's not just Frisco. I always like to respond by saying whatever growth Frisco is experiencing, we are a safe community," Hill said.

Hill also discussed Frisco's continued economic growth as businesses increasingly move to Collin County, including companies and organizations with long-standing ties to Dallas.

When asked about Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson's recent comments describing Collin County cities as "the wolves are up the tollway" competing for Dallas businesses, Hill said he intends to keep Frisco competitive.

"I know I intend to be extremely competitive. I intend to help and work with Council and other leadership in Frisco to win a lot of those competitive battles," Hill said.

Hill will be sworn into office on July 7.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC DFW. AI tools helped convert the story into a digital article, and an NBC DFW journalist edited it again before publication.