Dallas just hired its new environmental chief from the federal government’s front lines.
Angela Hodges Gott takes over as Director and Chief Resiliency Officer for the City of Dallas’ Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability. The position puts her in charge of Dallas’ environmental strategy, climate resilience planning, and sustainability initiatives affecting the nation’s ninth-largest city.
From Federal Enforcement to City Leadership
Hodges Gott spent over 15 years as Assistant Regional Counsel with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Dallas office. She wasn’t pushing paper—she provided legal counsel on programs managing more than $1 billion in federal grant funds annually, including initiatives focused on environmental and climate resilience.
Her work involved leading negotiations in complex enforcement cases, representing the EPA in high-stakes litigation, and serving as principal attorney on groundbreaking environmental initiatives. She also advised EPA officials on ethics matters and contributed to national workgroups on environmental justice and property disposition.
The federal government recognized her work with more than ten honors, including the Silver Medal for Superior Service, multiple Bronze Medals for Commendable Service, and a Federal Executive Board Public Service Award.
What She Brings to Dallas
Hodges Gott holds three degrees focused on environmental work. She earned her law degree cum laude from Texas Tech University School of Law, where she specialized in environmental law. She also has a Master of Applied Geography from Texas State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Political Science from Baylor University.
Before joining the EPA, she worked at Locke Lord LLP, a major law firm where she focused on environmental compliance, due diligence for corporate transactions, and enforcement defense.
City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert selected Hodges Gott to lead the office that handles Dallas’ environmental quality standards, sustainability programs, and climate resilience planning. The position requires coordinating with multiple city departments, managing regulatory compliance, and developing strategies to address environmental challenges facing Dallas.
Environmental Leadership in a Growing City
Dallas faces ongoing environmental challenges common to major metropolitan areas—air quality concerns, urban heat island effects, stormwater management, and adapting infrastructure to handle extreme weather events. The Chief Resiliency Officer position focuses specifically on preparing the city for climate-related challenges.
Hodges Gott’s background in federal environmental law and grants management positions her to pursue federal funding opportunities for Dallas environmental projects. Her experience managing billion-dollar federal programs could prove valuable as cities compete for federal infrastructure and climate adaptation funds.
The Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability oversees environmental regulations affecting businesses and residents, coordinates city sustainability initiatives, and works with other departments on projects ranging from waste management to green infrastructure.
Strategic Leadership
Hodges Gott describes herself as passionate about leading teams in strategic thinking, regulatory problem-solving, and advancing environmental and public policy outcomes. Her EPA work involved coordinating across multiple agencies and stakeholders—experience that translates to managing city environmental programs that require cooperation between various city departments and external partners.
Her appointment reflects Dallas’ ongoing focus on environmental sustainability and climate preparedness as the city continues growing. The Chief Resiliency Officer position signals recognition that environmental challenges require dedicated leadership with expertise in both law and environmental science.
Details
Appointment: Angela Hodges Gott
Position: Director and Chief Resiliency Officer, Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability
Start Date: October 20, 2025
Appointed by: City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert
Education:
- J.D., Texas Tech University School of Law (cum laude, environmental law specialty)
- M.A. Applied Geography, Texas State University
- B.A. Environmental Studies and Political Science, Baylor University
Previous Experience:
- Assistant Regional Counsel, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Dallas office)
- Attorney, Locke Lord LLP
Federal Honors:
Silver Medal for Superior Service, multiple Bronze Medals for Commendable Service, Federal Executive Board Public Service Award
More Information
City of Dallas: dallascityhall.com
Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability: Part of Dallas city government structure
