Public Meetings - Fort Worth, Texas

The Fort Worth Housing and Finance Corporation (HFC) met on June 23, 2026, to approve previous meeting minutes, receive a briefing on the $10 million affordable housing bond program, and adopt a resolution to accept funding from Chapter 380 economic development agreements. The meeting generated robust discussion about program priorities, geographic equity, and housing types. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The minutes from the April 28 meeting were approved unanimously with no opposition. - Written Reports – No questions were raised regarding the written reports presented by Matthew Mondero. Discussion Items - Briefing on the Affordable Housing Bond Program – Anderson Stout presented the draft framework for the $10 million bond program, which voters approved in an earlier election. The proposed allocation includes: - $4 million for home ownership opportunities (vacant lot preparation, infrastructure costs) - $4 million for multifamily rental development (gap financing, site preparation) - $2 million flexible set‑aside for projects as they arise - Target areas: neighborhood improvement areas, opportunity zones, urban villages, transit‑oriented districts, and neighborhood empowerment zones - Evaluation criteria: project readiness, financial feasibility, neighborhood compatibility, equity, and leverage of private investment - Timeline: outreach and evaluation through mid‑2027; first funding availability in 2027; construction focused in FY28; completion and compliance by FY29 - Metrics: affordable units generated, units per dollar, land required, and new capital infrastructure value - Councilmember Beck (Chair) raised several concerns: - Stated that single‑family focus contradicts best practices in city planning and Fort Worth’s own infill development code; questioned why the ownership allocation is limited to single‑family homes instead of more dense types like duplexes or townhomes. - Noted that cheap infill property for single‑family homes is unlikely in higher‑income districts (e.g., District 9) but available in districts with greenfield land, conflicting with the mayor’s goal to preserve open space. - Asked why the program does not simply direct funds to the existing community land trust (CLT), which preserves affordability in perpetuity, whereas Habitat for Humanity allows equity building. - Highlighted the new federal “Building More in America” bill (recently passed in the Senate) that offers competitive grants for housing supply increases, and urged staff to align the bond program to leverage those federal dollars. - Staff Response (Anderson Stout and Casey): - Public input during the bond campaign favored single‑family, but the program is flexible and can include duplexes, townhomes, and cottages; condominiums are difficult to finance in Texas. - The $4 million for ownership was partly driven by federal funding already focused on multifamily; bond funds address the lack of affordable single‑family ownership identified in the housing strategy. - Community land trusts and other partners will be considered; a competitive process will be used to evaluate all proposals. - Staff acknowledged the small size ($10 million) and agreed to incorporate council feedback into detailed policy development. - Councilmember (District 6 Representative): - Expressed concern that affordable housing projects tend to concentrate in certain districts (especially District 6) due to lower land costs and ease of development. - Stated unequivocally, “I don’t want to continue to be proliferated in district six with affordable housing projects,” and urged a balanced distribution that does not rely solely on “easiest” locations. - Staff responded that equitable distribution is desired but may not be possible across all 10 council districts given the limited $10 million; feedback will shape scoring criteria. - Councilmember Michael: - Supported a thorough review of all available partners (Habitat, CLT, etc.) before finalizing the process. - Stated that competitive processes will allow new and existing developers to bring forward innovative ideas. - Councilmember Nettles: - Endorsed the idea of a workshop with outside partners (e.g., Housing Channel, nonprofits) and a small council committee to refine the program quickly, aiming for success to support future bonds. - Emphasized that affordable housing should be citywide, not limited to certain zip codes, and noted that developers will propose projects across the city. - Cautioned against holding funds for a specific type (e.g., single‑family vs. multifamily) if good projects emerge; staff confirmed flexibility to reallocate between categories. Key Outcomes - Resolution Approved – The HFC unanimously adopted a resolution to accept funding from the city’s Chapter 380 economic development agreements. This allows a 5% rebate on property tax increases from certain developments to be directed to the HFC for affordable housing. The resolution had previously been approved by the City Council in December 2025 but required formal HFC action. - Future Agenda Item – A future meeting will include additional information on the affordable housing bond program, incorporating feedback from councilmembers and planned workshops with community partners. Staff will also analyze the new federal housing bill for synergy opportunities. - No other business; meeting adjourned.

The meeting was called to order on June 23, 2026. The board elected a new President and Vice President, approved minutes from the previous meeting, received a financial briefing, and unanimously passed two resolutions related to signatory authority. No executive session was held. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting (motion, second, unanimous aye). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Financial Report (October 2025 – May 2026): The report showed cash at end of period of just over $5.5 million. However, $3.2 million is committed to the Barry Stallcut project and $1.9 million is held in reserve, leaving approximately $400,000 in available cash. No questions were raised. - Resolution to Appoint Dana Bergdoff as Signatory Agent: Described as a housekeeping item to add the Assistant City Manager as an authorized signatory for document execution and certain expenditures. Approved unanimously. - Resolution Updating Signatory Authority for Bank Accounts: Updated the signatory authority for the corporation’s bank accounts. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Election of President: Deborah Peoples was nominated and elected by acclamation (motion, second, all ayes). - Election of Vice President: A motion was made and seconded; the nominee accepted and was elected by acclamation (all ayes, no name provided in transcript). - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting were approved (all ayes). - Resolutions Passed: Both resolutions regarding signatory authority were passed unanimously. - No future agenda items were requested, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Fort Worth City Council convened on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, starting at approximately 12:30 p.m. CDT (17:30 UTC). The meeting began with recognitions for community leader Marie Love, Military Appreciation Month, America's 250th anniversary, LGBTQ+ Pride Month ("y'all means all"), and the Fort Worth Vaqueros soccer club. The council then considered a consent agenda, pulled items, and held public hearings on multiple zoning cases. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, with many speakers addressing data center development, ethics concerns, and community issues. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously after two speakers addressed an item (West 7th Bridge lighting improvements; cost $2,141,825.84, originally budgeted $2.5 million). City staff clarified the contract was design-build due to the bridge's pre-formed nature. - Two items were withdrawn (MNC 26-0543 and MNC 26-0549) and two zoning cases were continued: ZC 26-062 to August 11, 2026, and ZC 26-41 to August 25, 2026. - Items pulled from consent for separate votes: MNC 26-0525 (second east fee increase), MNC 26-0529 (Brown Ranch Hines Development Agreement), and MNC 26-0539 (CCPD emerging partners grant). Public Comments & Testimony - Adrian Smith (District 6): Opposed West 7th Bridge lighting improvements, arguing the cost (total $4.6 million) was excessive and safety should be prioritized over aesthetics. - Chris Wood: Advocated for expanding victim assistance services and public education on safety for women, urging the council to prioritize survival over politeness. - Kevin Carlson (District 10): Requested rezoning of a parcel at Heritage Trace and Blue Mound Road to neighborhood commercial restricted, citing safety and property value impacts from nearby construction. - Adrian Smith (second appearance): Raised ethics concerns regarding Mayor Parker's husband (David Parker), a registered lobbyist for the Data Center Coalition, citing increased lobbying compensation from $1 million (pre-2021) to up to $1.8 million in 2026 year-to-date. Also criticized a 78% tax abatement (approx. $2.1 billion exemption) for a Google warehouse in White Settlement, calling it fiscally irresponsible. - Krista Irby (District 3): Urged the council not to reduce public comment time; clarified that no such reduction was on the agenda. - Nor Wadi (Faith Power Alliance): Called for a data center moratorium, citing environmental and economic harms. Also noted the lack of a permanent ethics commission and alleged conflict of interest regarding the Mayor's husband's lobbying. - Michael Rawlerson: Criticized the council for accepting campaign contributions from Black Mountain and for not addressing ethical ties. Demanded a moratorium on data centers. - Lauren Ivy Chong (District 9): Shared her experience of being denied a constituent meeting with Councilmember Beck, urging the council to engage directly with residents rather than relying solely on staff reports, especially regarding data center regulations. - Steven Sanchez (audio engineer): Presented recordings showing that existing data centers produce a low-frequency hum not accurately captured by standard dBA measurements. Advocated for using C or Z weighting and longer studies to assess noise impacts. - Jeff Pointer (Moser Valley descendant): Requested the city honor its obligations to Moser Valley, a historic Freedman's town annexed in 1960. Cited lack of paved roads, illegal dumping, and unaddressed concerns. Called for transparency on city-owned land and recognition of the Moser Valley Property Owners Association. - Deanna Bowles (Councilmember): Thanked Mr. Pointer and noted a meeting scheduled to discuss Moser Valley preservation. - Michael Howell (retired USAF): Urged stewardship, warning that data center development could lead to toxic runoff and increased costs. Cited a $70 million budget gap and Carswell groundwater lawsuits. - Ellis Maxwell: Criticized the June 2 work session on data centers as skewed toward industry interests. Argued that AI data centers do not benefit everyday people and that faster permitting timelines reduce necessary assessment. - Brian Patman: Opposed a proposed Black Mountain data center near Weston Gardens, describing the industrial incursion into a rural neighborhood. Questioned whose progress is served. - EJ Carrion: Read excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, accusing the council of establishing a tyranny of corporate interests. Threatened to vote out unresponsive members. - Conley Brewer (District 6): Opposed new rules requiring speakers to pre-categorize their comments (for/against/neutral), arguing it restricts open expression. Called for fewer participation barriers and greater accountability after recent council pay increases. - Alexander Montalvo: Renewed calls for a data center moratorium, criticized the council for not listening, and cited Fort Worth ISD's state takeover and ICE actions as evidence of failed leadership. - Bob Willoughby: Called for voter education in schools, alleged rigged elections (4% turnout), and demanded removal of the mayor for removing free speech from agendas. - Elena Montalvo: Urged a data center moratorium, criticized the council for ignoring community concerns, and stated that new leadership is needed. Discussion Items - Brown Ranch Hines Development Agreement (MNC 26-0529): Assistant City Manager Dana Bergdoff explained the shift from a Capital PID to a Municipal Utility District (MUD) due to state legislative changes limiting municipal control in the ETJ. The agreement secures off-site road improvements beyond typical requirements (Walsh Ranch Parkway north and south, West Point Boulevard, Old Weatherford Road), park dedication, floodplain dedication, and a $1 per $100 assessed valuation property tax rate. Councilmember Crane moved to approve with an amendment to add a master roadway network alignment exhibit and direct staff to bring forth a corresponding amendment to the master roadway network. - West 7th Bridge Lighting (from consent): City staff clarified that the $2.1 million contract is not additive to the original $2.5 million budget; it is a design-build contract due to the bridge's pre-formed structure. - Zoning Cases: Several zoning cases were approved, including companion cases for development agreements. ZC 26-022 (near Fort Worth Nature Center) was denied with prejudice to protect environmental concerns. Recusals were noted for Councilmember Hall on ZC 26-065 and ZC 26-067 due to employment with Fort Worth ISD. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - MNC 26-0525 (second east fee increase) approved. - MNC 26-0529 (Brown Ranch development agreement) approved with amendment to add master roadway exhibit and direct staff to bring forth amendment to master roadway network. - MNC 26-0539 (CCPD emerging partners grant) approved after Councilmember Beck recused. - CP-338, 339, 340 (waivers of park fees) approved. - Board appointments approved for Districts 2 and 10. - Zoning cases: - ZC 26-022 denied with prejudice to protect the Fort Worth Nature Center. - ZC 26-41 continued to August 25, 2026. - SP-26-008 continued to August 11, 2026. - ZC 26-062 continued to August 11, 2026. - Multiple other zoning cases approved as moved. - No action taken on reducing public comment time (agenda item not considered). - Meeting adjourned after public comment.

The city council held a work session on June 23, 2026, covering multiple informal reports and presentations on topics including illegal fireworks enforcement, handbill distribution, workers' compensation appeals, the Net Force pilot program, the Engage Fort Worth Community Academy, the literacy initiative, and a proposed incentive agreement for Mock Industries. No formal votes were taken; most items are expected to proceed to a regular council meeting or inform future budget decisions. Discussion Items - Illegal Gunfire and Fireworks: Deputy Chief Andre Smith presented a coordinated plan between the Fort Worth Police and Fire Departments to manage illegal fireworks and gunfire through four core goals: protecting safety, ensuring resource availability, delivering community messaging, and reducing calls. The plan includes community engagement, event management, data-driven resource deployment, and enforcement operations. Councilmembers Foras, Crane, and Peoples expressed support and thanked community advocates Torchy Y and Cindy Bowling for their grassroots efforts with signs funded from their own pockets. - Unwanted Handbill Distribution: Brian Doherty, Code Compliance Director, reported on a new strategy to address unwanted newspapers and handbills. The city will track reports via the My Fort Worth app and a new landing page that allows residents to opt out per address. A 51% neighborhood opt-out threshold is required for complete cessation by some distributors. Council member Warsdorf suggested exploring littering charges for unsolicited papers heavy with ads. Staff will evaluate the approach after 90 days and consider ordinance changes if needed. - Workers' Compensation Surgical Appeals: Kristen Smith presented data from the past five years showing that only 5% of surgical requests resulting from workplace injuries were appealed. Of those appealed, 46% were upheld and 53% overturned after medical review or additional documentation. Councilmember Larsdworth raised concerns about the peer review process, noting that third-party doctors sometimes deny surgery recommended by in-network physicians, leading to delays in care. Staff clarified that peer review involves dialogue between the requesting provider and a neutral third-party physician. - Net Force Pilot Update: Brian Doherty presented a six-month update on the Nuisance Enforcement Task Force (Net Force) pilot, which conducted concentrated multi-departmental inspections at three properties: Eco Motel (District 11), Southside Food Mart and Rockies 2 (Hemp Hill area), and Sandy Oaks Apartments. The team identified 509, 53, and 859 violations respectively. Eco Motel was declared hazardous after structural deficiencies and the owner shut down operations; Southside Food Mart entered a Chapter 125 agreement and also ceased operations; Sandy Oaks corrected all 859 violations. Police calls for service dropped at closed properties but may have shifted elsewhere. Total cost for the six-month pilot was approximately $174,000, far below the earlier estimate of $3.5 million. Staff proposed a permanent program at an estimated $2 million per year, focusing on a rotating list of properties. Councilmembers expressed strong support but raised questions about resource reallocation, recouping costs from fines, and displacement of nuisance activity. Councilman Nettles requested a database of high-call locations to prioritize. - Engage Fort Worth Community Academy: Madeline Mackey presented a free, seven-session program launching in September to educate residents on city operations, decision-making, and civic engagement. The first cohort is limited to 25 participants, selected by a staff panel based on geographic diversity and representation from historically underserved neighborhoods. The academy will include evening sessions and Saturday field days, covering topics such as public safety, infrastructure, growth and development, and accountability. Cost for the pilot is $6,000. Council members suggested adding Spanish-language programming, ride-along opportunities with police, zoning education, and partnerships with organizations like Leadership Fort Worth. They also emphasized non-traditional outreach to reach unengaged residents. - Literacy Initiative Update: Monique Hill, Midori Clark, and partners from Literacy Roundup and Rainwater Foundation presented an update on summer literacy programs. The Literacy Roundup has screened 200 students already this summer, identifying 64 at risk for dyslexia, on track to nearly double last year's total of over 400. The program has expanded to 13 community centers and five libraries. The Rainwater Foundation granted $338,000 to fund literacy support specialists who help parents advocate for services in school districts. The Mayor's Summer Reading Challenge has logged over 4.3 million minutes read this year. Councilmembers praised the initiative and highlighted the importance of follow-through from screening to school services. Councilman Beck noted the past chasm between diagnosis and services; staff confirmed they now provide advocates to accompany parents to schools. - Mock Industries Incentive Agreement: Jessica Rogers, Economic Development Director, presented a proposed agreement with Mock Industries, an aerospace and defense manufacturer, to build an unmanned aerial vehicle integration facility at Alliance Gateway 34 in District 10. The project includes a $74 million capital investment ($6 million real property, $68 million business personal property) and creation of 600 to 1,000 full-time jobs with an average salary of $67,470. The proposed incentives are a 10-year tax abatement on 45% of real and business personal property (capped at $3.5 million) and an Economic Development Program Agreement (EDPA) job-based grant of up to $1 million tied to employment milestones. The public-private participation ratio is 2.7% with a $37-to-1 private-to-public return. Council members expressed strong support, noting the high-quality jobs and significant new payroll ($67 million annually). Key Outcomes - Net Force Pilot: The city will consider funding a permanent, year-round program in the upcoming budget, focusing on a rotating list of problem properties. Councilman Nettles will provide additional properties from his district to the list. - Engage Fort Worth Community Academy: The program will launch in September; applications open June 24 through July 26. Staff will consider suggestions for future expansion, including Spanish-language options and partnerships with universities and civic organizations. - Literacy Initiative: Continued expansion of dyslexia screenings and parent advocacy services; councilmembers encouraged to visit Freedom School and other sites over the summer. - Mock Industries Incentive: The item is expected to be brought to a future council meeting for a vote. The company is expected to make a final location decision by the third quarter of 2026. - Future Agenda Items: Councilman Larsen requested a work session presentation on e-bike and e-scooter regulations following a public safety committee update. Councilman Crane requested an update on the locution (public address) system installation at fire stations, either via an informal report or email. The meeting then recessed into executive session for legal, real property, economic development, and security deliberations.

The Fort Worth Building Standards Commission met on June 22, 2026, at 9:32 AM and recessed at noon, reconvening at 1 PM. Commissioners Castles, Black, Jawali, Dyke, Walker, Juarez, Lou, Thompson, and Dotti (joined later) were present; Leiden, Lane, and Dotti were absent initially. The Commission heard 19 cases involving substandard and hazardous structures and nuisance abatement, issuing orders for repair or demolition and assessing civil penalties. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the May meeting (8-0). - Unanimously approved the evidentiary packet (8-0). - Unanimously approved the withdrawal of seven cases (8-0). Discussion Items - 3204 Northampton Street – Owner Leonardo Padilla and lienholder Will Huffman requested 90 days to remodel. The Commission declared the structure substandard/hazardous and ordered repair or demolition within 60 days, with demolition authorization if not complied (8-0). - 300 NW 26th Street (accessory structure) – Owner Jose Rivas requested 60 days to repair for storage. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 60 days (9-0). - 3732 South Grove Street (primary and accessory) – Property in probate; Joe Garcia requested 90 days to sell for demolition. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 60 days (9-0). - 5738 Gettys Avenue (primary and accessory) – Owner Linda Coleman requested 6 months; had begun cleanup. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 60 days (9-0). - 2726 Chester Boyer Road (commercial, primary and accessory) – Owner Rosa Alfaro cited environmental contamination and past city inaction; city requested 30 days. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 30 days (9-0). - 7224 White Wood Drive (nuisance abatement) – Owner Mark Cooper requested 60 days to remove debris. Ordered abatement within 45 days and issued a civil penalty of $100/day for 44 days ($4,400) (9-0). - 1628 Scenery Hill Road (nuisance abatement) – Owner Robin Morris Elkins; neighborhood association president Carol Peters supported the city. Ordered abatement within 30 days and issued $4,400 civil penalty (9-0). - 1905 South Jennings Avenue (amendment) – Daniel Dominguez requested additional 90 days; city opposed due to lack of progress. Amendment denied (9-0). - 2319 Lena Street (amendment) – Deborah Weather requested 90 days; had permits and started foundation work. Amendment granted for 90 days (9-0). - 2914 NW 20th Street (amendment) – Eric Artiaga requested 30 days to evict tenants and then demolish. City unopposed; amendment granted for 30 days (8-0). - 2114 Tierney Road (amendment) – Suzanne Suarez and Christina Estrada requested 90 days to rehab after foreclosure; city opposed. Amendment granted for 90 days (8-0). - 601 Cooks Street (amendment to nuisance abatement) – Susan Norman requested 30 days to clean up; city opposed. Granted 30 days and reduced civil penalty from $100/day to $34/day for 44 days ($1,496) (8-0). - 3149 Milam Street (new nuisance) – Owner deceased; daughter Latani Crawford requested 90 days to clean with tribal assistance. Ordered abatement within 60 days and issued $0 civil penalty (8-0). - 1324 Limerick Drive (amendment to civil penalty) – Jaron Howard requested reduction; property nearly complete. Reduced civil penalty to $10/day for 282 days ($2,820) (8-0). - 5433 Diaz Avenue (primary and accessory) – Owner deceased; tenant present. City requested 30 days. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 30 days (8-0). - 2837 6th Avenue (primary structure) – Owner Barbara Sue Sims had requested continuance; denied. Declared substandard/hazardous, ordered repair or demolition within 30 days (8-0). - 4566 Hemphill Street – City requested continuance to August 24, 2026 to verify ownership; granted (8-0). - 2744 South Jennings Avenue (nuisance abatement) – No appearance. Ordered abatement within 30 days and issued $4,400 civil penalty (8-0). - 1418 Homan Avenue (amendment to civil penalty) – Owner absent; city unopposed to removing civil penalty. Civil penalty removed (8-0). Key Outcomes - All structures considered were declared substandard and hazardous. - Repair/demolish orders ranged from 30 to 60 days; nuisance abatement orders ranged from 30 to 60 days. - Civil penalties were assessed in several nuisance cases; one was reduced and one removed via amendment. - Two amendments were denied; four amendments were granted. - One case was continued to August 24, 2026. - The meeting adjourned after the last case.

The Fort Worth Urban Design Commission (UDC) met on June 18, 2026, with a quorum of eight members present: Chairman Benner, Commissioner DeBose, Commissioner Harrier, Commissioner Hughes, Commissioner Moss, Commissioner Ramsey, Commissioner Reed, and Commissioner West. The meeting began with a work session presentation on the Panther Island Form-Based Code update, followed by formal public hearings on three cases: an urban forestry preservation waiver, a signage waiver in the Cambuie District, and a medical outpatient building by JPS Hospital with rooftop equipment waivers. Work Session: Panther Island Form-Based Code Update - Presentation: Brandon Utterback, planning manager, presented the proposed 2026 update to the Panther Island Form-Based Code, which builds on Vision 2.0. Key changes include refined boundaries (removing three areas), introduction of two primary development zones (PI Core for higher intensity, PI Edge for sensitive transitions), waterfront standards aligned with TRWD canal standards, height ranges of 4–24 stories in PI Core and 3–15 in PI Edge, and improved sidewalk and streetscape standards. The update is still a work in progress and is expected to go to City Council for approval in October 2026. - Canal Construction Update: Susan Alanis, Panther Island Program Director for the Tarrant Regional Water District, stated that phase one canals (east of North Main, between 4th and 5th) are nearly at 100% plans and will go to bid in late summer, with construction starting in early fall. The bypass channel bids were opened the prior week, with contract award expected in August and mobilization early next year. - No action taken; the presentation was informational. Approval of Minutes - Minutes from the May 2026 UDC meeting were approved by a vote of 8-0. Staff noted that the May meeting recording was unavailable due to technical issues, which have been resolved. New Case: UDC-2026-127 – Urban Forestry Preservation Waiver - Staff Presentation: Caleb Olson, senior plans examiner, presented a request to reduce the preservation requirement from 25% of protected species canopy to 0% for a 54.5-acre subdivision (four parcels, council district 7). The site contains only 15 protected species trees (due to prior development), and the applicant proposes to plant trees on each residential lot, achieving an estimated 39.7% canopy coverage (exceeding the 25% requirement). Staff recommended approval. - Applicant: A representative confirmed the existing homes would be demolished and that tree planting would exceed the requirement. Commissioners suggested diversifying tree species. - No opposition. - Vote: Motion to approve passed 8-0. New Case: UDC-2026-117 – Cambuie Signage Waiver - Staff Presentation: The applicant (Highlands Church) requested a certificate of appropriateness for two wall signs on a corner tenant space at 3347 Winthrop Avenue within the Cambuie Boulevard Revitalization Code District. The combined sign area (120 sq ft) exceeds the allowed 100 sq ft per tenant. Staff noted that proposed code amendments would allow such configurations in the future. Staff recommended approval. - Support: Lydia Wahardo Rickard, executive director of Cambuie District Inc., stated the proposed code amendments would allow two signs for businesses with two street frontages and that the district aligns with staff’s recommendation. - Applicant: Stephen Klein explained the building’s layout and why signs are needed on both facades, noting the rear façade is not suitable for signage. - No opposition. - Vote: Motion to approve passed 8-0. Case UDC-2026-140 – Administrative Withdrawal - The TCU-related case was administratively withdrawn without a vote; the item was not heard. New Case: UDC-2026-129 – JPS Medical Outpatient Building (1300 S Main Street) - Staff Presentation: The applicant (Tarrant County Hospital District/JPS) requested a certificate of appropriateness for a 10-story medical outpatient building within the Near South Side Form-Based Code, along with four waivers: (1) allowing mechanical equipment to exceed roof height by 20 ft (capped at 10 ft); (2) allowing mechanical equipment to occupy 65% of roof area (capped at 25%); (3) allowing mechanical equipment to be zero feet from roof edge (required 10 ft setback); (4) allowing rooftop equipment to be visible from neighboring properties at the same level (must be screened). Staff recommended approval of the first three waivers but denial of the fourth, citing the ability to screen the equipment at reasonable cost. - Applicant: Jaron Ricketts, principal architect, stated that the equipment is necessary for surgical services and that screening the small exhaust fans and relief vents on top of the mechanical penthouse would cost $200,000–$250,000 (exceeding equipment value). He argued that the unscreened equipment is not visible from current adjacent buildings and only potentially from a future JPS tower to the southeast. The design carefully screens larger equipment behind a screen wall. - Support: Austin James, representing Near South Side, Inc., expressed unanimous support from the design review committee for all four waivers, noting that only JPS buildings would be at a similar height and that the equipment is a minor issue. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners debated the visibility concern. Some noted that from I-35 the equipment likely is not visible, and that future buildings in the area would be hospital-related (general hospitals allowed up to 20 stories). Commissioner Ramsey moved to approve all four waivers, citing the minimal visual impact and taxpayer savings. The motion was seconded. - Vote: Motion to approve all four waivers passed 7-0 (Commissioner DeBose recused prior; vote included Chairman Benner, Commissioner West, Commissioner Reed, Commissioner Hughes, Commissioner Ramsey, Commissioner Moss, and Commissioner Harrier). The commission overruled staff’s recommendation to deny the fourth waiver. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved: May 2026 minutes passed 8-0. - Urban forestry waiver approved: Preservation requirement reduced to 0% for a 54.5-acre subdivision (8-0). - Cambuie signage waiver approved: Two wall signs allowed on corner tenant space exceeding current allocation (8-0). - TCU case withdrawn administratively. - JPS waivers approved: All four waivers for mechanical equipment on the 10-story medical outpatient building approved (7-0), including the screening waiver that staff had recommended denying. - Meeting adjourned at the conclusion of the JPS case.

The Fort Worth Board of Adjustment convened on June 17, 2026, at 3:15 PM with all 11 members present. The board heard 20 cases involving variances and special exceptions related to residential and commercial properties. After presentations, public testimony, and deliberation, the board rendered decisions as outlined below. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting without objection. Key Decisions (in order of agenda) - BAR-26-040 (7325 Mohawk Ave): Variance A (reduce parking spaces) denied (3-8). Variance B (allow front yard parking) approved (11-0). - BAR-26-053 (3201 Mitchell Blvd): Special exception A (solid wood fence) approved with stipulation allowing fence only on south side (10-1). Variance B (shed setback 2.5 ft) approved (10-1). - BAR-26-031 (1406 Thomas Place): Variance for zero-foot side yard carport approved (11-0). - BAR-26-033 (3904 Miller Ave): Two variances (front setback and front yard parking) approved (11-0). - BAR-26-036 (1821 Luxon St): Variance for lot width reduction approved (10-1). - BAC-26-015 (251 E McAllister Rd): Motion to approve monument sign height variance at 11 feet failed (4-7); variance denied. - BAC-26-017 (9301 Blue Mound Rd): Special exception A (electronic sign on north side) failed (7-4). Special exception B (east side) approved (10-1). - BAC-26-016 (3300 E Barrie St): Special exception for electronic copy on freeway sign approved (11-0). - BAR-26-042 (3900 Potomac Ave): Variance for 12-ft fence height approved (11-0). - BAR-26-041 (4137 Anita Ave): Variance for front yard setback approved (10-1). - BAR-26-048 (10401 Kings Point Blvd): Continued to July 15, 2026, at applicant’s request. - BAR-26-047 (3800 Bryce Ave): Variance A (front setback) denied (5-6). Variance B (side setback) approved with stipulation limiting encroachment to fireplace area (11-0). - BAR-26-037 (633 Westwood Ave): Variance A (front setback) approved (11-0). Variance B (side setback) approved (10-1). - BAR-26-045 (209 Williamsburg Ln): Variance for side yard carport setback approved (11-0). - BAR-26-044 (7805 Pensacola Ave): Special exception A (carport in front yard) failed (6-5). Variance B (side yard setback) approved (11-0). - BAR-26-052 (3412 Rustwood Ct): Variance for rear setback approved (11-0). - BAR-26-049 (4500 Calmont Ave): Variance for side yard setback approved (11-0). - BAR-26-028 (2210 Weatherby St): Variance A (side yard setback) approved (11-0). Variance B (height) denied (6-5). - BAR-26-038 (5319 Quail Run): Two variances (accessory structure in front yard and reduced setback) approved (11-0). - BAR-26-050 (3623 Cantu Dr): Variance A (side yard setback) approved (10-0, one member recused). Variance B (height) approved (9-1). The meeting adjourned after all cases were heard.

The Fort Worth City Council held a budget worksession on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, from 10:05 a.m. to 11:56 a.m. to review proposed rates and fees for the FY2027 budget. Presentations covered total resident charges, solid waste and environmental rates, water and sewer preliminary budgets, stormwater utility fees, a street maintenance fee proposal, and results from the budget priorities survey. The city faces a roughly $50 million general fund budget gap. Council members provided feedback and requested additional analysis on several items. Total Resident Charges Analysis - Brady Kirk (FWLab Assistant Director) presented a comparison of Fort Worth’s combined resident charges (property tax, water, wastewater, solid waste, stormwater, environmental protection, street maintenance, and EMS fees) against peer cities. Fort Worth ranked as the second most affordable among major Texas cities, competitive with local cities, and the most affordable among regional competitors like Plano, Frisco, and McKinney. The analysis used a typical monthly cost of about $240 (including property tax spread over 12 months), with about 45–46% of that coming from non-property-tax fees. Kirk noted that the proposed increases for FY2027 were not reflected in the comparisons. Solid Waste & Environmental Rates - Cody Whittenburg (Environmental Services Director) presented three funds: Environmental Protection Fund (proposed 11% increase across the board, raising the residential fee from $2.25 to $2.50 per month), General Fund (consumer health permit fees – proposed year two of a phased increase for hotels, motels, swimming pools, and child care facilities), and Solid Waste Fund (proposed 20% increase across all cart sizes, e.g., 32-gallon cart from $13.75 to $16.50 per month). Whittenburg explained that the Solid Waste Fund had a 19-year period without a rate increase, leading to a $20 million gap in FY2025, reduced to $17 million in FY2026, and projected to fall to $7 million if the 20% increase is adopted. He noted a long-term plan to reach full cost recovery within 2–3 years. - Council members discussed homelessness-related cleanup costs (campsite cleanup spending had doubled from $3 million in FY2024 to $6 million in FY2025) and called for a holistic approach involving neighborhood services and prevention, not just enforcement. Council requested staff continue to work with stakeholders on homelessness solutions. Water and Sewer Preliminary Budget and Rates - Chris Harder (Water Director) presented a proposed FY2027 water and sewer budget increase of 8.7% (approximately $58 million), driven by O&M, capital projects (including the Mary’s Creek and Eagle Mountain plant expansions), and increased raw water costs from TRWD and TRA. The proposed rate increases are 3.6% for water and 2.85% for wastewater. Harder emphasized that the lowest two residential tiers would see no increase; upper tiers would have modest volumetric increases, and fixed charges would rise by $1.15 per month for a typical ¾-inch meter. The average residential bill increase would be under $1.50 per month. Harder also discussed PFOS-related litigation and settlement payments ($4 million received) and a planned PFOS treatment plant at Holly complex. Stormwater Utility Fees - Jennifer Dyke (TPW Assistant Director) proposed a 5% increase in the stormwater utility fee, raising the typical single-family tier-two home fee from $7.29 to $7.65 per month (a $0.37 increase). The additional revenue would fund a new mid-size flood mitigation program, increase partnership capital projects, and add one new position for channel and SWIFMA inspections. Dyke noted that the city has over $1 billion in known stormwater needs and is taking a phased approach. Council asked for more detailed cost breakdowns on annual maintenance and channel clearing costs. Budget Responses – Street Maintenance Fee (BR27-002) - Christianne Simmons (Chief Transformation Officer) presented the response to Budget Response BR27-002 regarding a street maintenance fee. She showed a graph illustrating that dedicating a fee would free up 34% of bond capacity currently used for street maintenance, allowing more bond funds for other capital needs. Council Member Beck expressed strong support for the fee and stated she would not be comfortable with exemptions or discounts. Budget Priorities Survey Reporting - Christianne Simmons reported on the budget priorities survey launched May 12, 2026, with nearly 1,400 responses as of June 12. Key findings: residents prioritize police, fire, EMS, streets, parks, and libraries; 44% prefer maintaining or improving services even if taxes/fees increase; 18% prefer status quo with no changes; about one-third support reducing some services. Council discussed the need to ensure district representation and cautioned against using the survey as the sole guide for cuts. Council member Martinez noted environmental services as a non-starter for cuts; Council member Nettles emphasized protecting neighborhood services; Council member Lauersdorf called for eliminating non-essential items such as public art. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to continue a holistic approach to combating homelessness, engaging all stakeholders and focusing on prevention. - Council requested detailed information on: annual stormwater system maintenance costs and any deficit; cost of clearing out drainage channels. - Council expressed support for the street maintenance fee (BR27-002) as a tool to free up bond capacity; no exemptions or discounts recommended. - No final votes were taken; all proposed rates and fees remain preliminary pending further council feedback and final appraisal numbers expected in July. - The budget priorities survey will remain open until the end of June, and results will inform the recommended budget presented in July. - Council members acknowledged that final budget decisions will require balancing rate increases, service cuts, and potential tax rate changes to close the $50 million gap.

The Fort Worth City Plan Commission convened on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to conduct a public hearing on a single right-of-way vacation case. Ten of eleven members were present, achieving a quorum. The meeting included the approval of prior meeting minutes and discussion of case VA 26010. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from the previous month's meeting by voice vote (motion by Commissioner Turner, second by Commissioner Reed; all in favor, none opposed). Discussion Items - VA 26010 – Vacation of right-of-way stub outs along Maple Orchard Lane, Council District 8. The general location is north of Oak Grove Shelby Road and east of Wichita Street and west of Brendan Road. Staff presented that the applicant (GM Civil) sought to vacate two small stub outs of right-of-way because the developer had withdrawn a previously planned denser townhome project with alleys and reverted to a previously approved, less dense single-family detached plat that no longer required the alley stubs. The commission's recommendation was required before the case proceeds to city council for an ordinance. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously (10-0) to recommend approval of VA 26010 to the city council. The motion was made by Commissioner Henderson and seconded by Commissioner Turner. All commissioners present voted in favor. - No public testimony was offered for or against the case. - The meeting adjourned shortly after the vote.