Mark Hill was sworn in as mayor of Frisco, Texas, on Tuesday, pledging to foster unity and promote the city’s diversity as key elements in attracting families and businesses. Hill, a lawyer and former Frisco Independent School District board trustee, succeeds Jeff Cheney, who was term-limited after nine years in office.

Hill emphasized his commitment to making Frisco a welcoming community, noting the city’s rapid growth and its increasingly diverse population. Approximately one-third of Frisco’s 245,000 residents are Asian, a demographic shift that became a focal point during the campaign. Hill credited his election to a message of inclusion and shared prosperity, aiming to ensure the city remains attractive for new residents and investors.

In the June 13 runoff election, Hill defeated construction business owner Rod Vilhauer, whose campaign came under criticism after Vilhauer made controversial remarks about South Asian immigrants and Islam. Hill positioned himself as a unifying figure, distancing his approach from what he characterized as rivalries and divisions within the City Council. Although Hill has experience on the city’s economic development corporation board, this is his first time serving on the council.

During his first address as mayor, Hill committed to listening and collaborating with the City Council and regional leaders, despite potential disagreements. He thanked several elected officials who attended his swearing-in, including Republican state representatives Matt Shaheen and Keresa Richardson, Democratic state representative Michaela Plesa, Denton County Judge Andy Eads, and Richardson Mayor Amir Omar.

A key motivation for Hill’s campaign was ensuring that residents from all backgrounds feel a sense of belonging in Frisco. He also pledged to maintain a strong focus on the city’s growth, aiming to attract large companies that could create jobs and bolster the tax base. Hill promised to pursue “big” ideas for Frisco’s future, encouraging residents to challenge and support him and council members in pushing the city forward.

In response to recent tensions at City Hall, including public protests over alleged H-1B visa fraud and the city’s demographic changes, Hill sought to restore a more constructive tone in council meetings. The city recently suspended public comment on topics unrelated to the council agenda as a measure to reduce disruptions, though Hill has yet to clarify whether he plans to reinstate those comments.

Overall, Hill’s initial address portrayed a vision for Frisco that embraces its evolving diversity and aims to foster civic unity while sustaining economic growth.