Public Meetings - Fort Worth, Texas

The City of Fort Worth Economic Development Department and Frost Bank hosted the 15th annual Fort Worth Business Plan Competition finals on the evening of October 16, 2026, at The Modern. Eight finalist businesses delivered three-minute pitches followed by judge Q&A, competing for cash and in-kind prizes. Mayor Mattie Parker and Frost regional president Hadley Warner attended, and former competition winner Shauna Murphy served as MC. The transcript references 20 applicants and six weeks of workshops, with an internal inconsistency between top 10 and top eight; eight companies actually presented. Competition Overview - Winners were determined by the highest combined score of the written business plan and the live pitch. - Frost Bank was the presenting sponsor; Shannon Watt and Hadley Warner spoke on behalf of Frost. - Councilmember Michael Crane from District 3 was recognized; Mayor Mattie Parker arrived later in the evening. - Judges included Richard Chance, Michael Doss, Erica Hirsch, Dustin Logan, Caitlin McMinn, and Sawyer Williams. - Mentor organizations acknowledged included Accelerate Fort Worth, Ensemble Coworking, Foundations EDC, SCORE Fort Worth, Tech Fort Worth, and TEI Consulting. - Prizes were first place $10,000, second place $6,000, third place $4,000, and the audience-voted Perfect Pitch prize of $500 in credits from Printed Threads. Business Pitches - Articulate Your Value — Jeremy pitched a for-profit career readiness and workforce development firm. He said it started in 2021, shifted from a national focus to hyper-local Fort Worth work, partners with Workforce Solutions and Tarrant County College, and won a bid through C2 Global to provide staff training at Tarrant County workforce centers. He would split contest funds between rebranding and marketing and attending industry events. - DMG Notaries — Michelle Gannott pitched a notary signing service for title companies and estate planning firms. She said DMG has served in 13 states and India via remote online notarization; capturing just 1% of the 900 title offices in DFW would triple annual revenue. Funds would support technology, marketing, and industry memberships. - Iconier — Rish Sharma pitched an AI-visibility and digital marketing agency with monthly plans starting at $499. He said the team of 22 serves 81 businesses, clients rate them 4.9 stars, and Tarrant County has 47,000 small businesses. He reported that four of five clients from January were still with the company, about 80% retention. Funds would support a local ambassador and workshops, with a goal of 20 Fort Worth clients by the end of 2027. - MLK Prearrangements — Lena Killian pitched pre-need funeral planning, including burials, cremations, veterans and VA benefits, cemetery property, headstones, and away-from-home coverage. She said she works with more than 40 funeral homes and relies mainly on word of mouth. - Open Minded Counseling — Katie Stone pitched the Open Minded Wellness training division. She cited that 25% of adults deal with a mental health issue, 50% of those people do not get the care they need, and 50% of providers report burnout. She said five cohorts and 15 clinicians across Texas have been trained and that business has grown 30%. Funds are earmarked for marketing, staff, and 2027 training facilities. - Panther City Eye Care — Dr. Julie Irvin pitched an optometry practice with medical and vision exams, optical, specialty contact lenses, and diagnostic testing. She said average revenue is about $300 per patient, capture rate is 63%, and the goal is to double patient encounters in 12 months by adding capacity before adding a second practitioner. Funds would go to SEO, bilingual marketing, and community outreach. - Centrosium Wellness — The owner pitched an online telemedicine hormone-optimization practice using at-home saliva and urine testing and pharmaceutical-grade products. She said being all-online and not requiring a three-to-six-month wait for an appointment differentiates it from competitors. Funds would support sponsored events, advertisements, and speaking engagements. - West Wellness and Massage — Chantelle Gardner pitched a combined med spa and massage studio offering massages, facials, IV infusions, peptides, and medical weight loss. She said the business doubled last year’s revenue, tripled memberships, and memberships are currently 18% of revenue; the goal is 100 new members in 12 months to increase membership revenue to 60%. Funds would support advertising, partnerships, and signage. Mayor and Sponsor Remarks - Mayor Mattie Parker said Fort Worth is the 10th largest city in the country with over a million people, and that small businesses are the bedrock of the city. She thanked Frost Bank, the economic development team, the judges, and The Modern for hosting. - Frost regional president Hadley Warner congratulated all participants and announced that Frost would provide every participant who completed the business plan competition a $5,000 five-year term loan and a $200 Visa gift card. Key Outcomes - Perfect Pitch Prize: Panther City Eye Care won $500 in credits from Printed Threads. - Third Place: Open Minded Counseling won $4,000. - Second Place: A $6,000 prize was announced, but the transcript does not identify the winner’s name. - First Place: Iconier won the $10,000 grand prize. - The event closed with a promise to return for the 2027 competition.

The City of Fort Worth held a public bid opening on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at which the names of vendors submitting bids for four RFPs were read aloud. No questions were accepted during the opening. Bid Openings - RFP 26-0266 Security Guard Services: 34 bidders submitted, including Andy Frain Services Inc., BCC Security Services, Texas Best Pro Security, Blackstone Security Services of Texas Inc., and others. - RFP 26-0324 Equipment Rental: 3 bidders submitted: Hercks Rentals Inc., Specialty Fleet Rental LLC, and Texas First Rentals LLC. - RFP (number unclear) Fire Line Inspections (Public Works): 2 bidders submitted: Hydro Max USA and McCamin Creed Inc. - RFP 26-0325 Statement of Qualifications for City of Fort Worth Design Services, Downtown Library: 21 bidders submitted, including Big Architecture DPC, Boca Powell, Bora Architecture and Interiors, Brave Architecture, and others. No decisions were made; the meeting consisted solely of reading and recording the submitted bids.

The Fort Worth Zoning Commission convened on October 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM following an 11:30 AM work session. The 18-item agenda included two continued cases, a text amendment, and several new zoning requests. All 11 commissioners were present. The commission denied a significant light industrial rezoning near residential areas, continued several cases for further stakeholder engagement, and approved the bulk of the agenda, including zoning for educational facilities, churches, housing, and commercial developments. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes from September 9, 2026 (11-0). - Approved a slate of mostly routine zoning changes with 11-0 votes: ZC-26-072 (FWISD rezoning to Community Facilities), ZC-26-111 (Church to Community Facilities), ZC-26-115 (Two-Family Duplex), ZC-26-118 (One-Family Residential), ZC-26-120 (Water Pumping Station CUP), ZC-26-122 (Tractor Trailer Storage CUP), and the master planned community adjustments for Maverick Ranch (ZC-26-129, ZC-26-131). Public Comments & Testimony - ZC-26-096 (Keller ISD / Light Industrial): Strong opposition was voiced. Renee Emmerich (Crawford Farms HOA) and other residents cited 229 letters of opposition, arguing the 113-acre project would bring truck traffic, lower property values, and conflict with the intended community facilities designation. The applicant and Keller ISD Deputy Superintendent John Allison highlighted the financial necessity for the school district, noting that the light industrial bids were significantly higher than residential offers and would fund educational programs without adding students. - ZC-26-114A (Decatur Ave): The owner of the existing auto salvage business and the new property owner (Cantex) requested a continuance, stating they were not properly notified of the city-initiated rezoning which could eliminate their ability to operate in the future, affecting 75 employees. - ZC-26-128 (Mosier Valley): Rod Parker disputed the ownership of one of the parcels, claiming an illegal sale. Jeff Pointer (Mosier Valley Property Owners Association) argued the area held significant historical value as a Freedmen's community and demanded recognition and community investment before any zoning changes. Danielle Tucker (local business owner) supported the change to bring the property into compliance and support local enterprise. - ZC-26-132 (Merrick St): Neighbor Randy Bowers opposed the steakhouse due to parking overflow. Lydia Wuhardo-Rickard (Camp Bowie District) and leaders from the Arlington Heights Neighborhood Association strongly supported the project, citing the applicant's extensive community outreach and the high demand for dining options. - ZC-26-133 (Batch Plant Text Amendment): Multiple industry representatives (Bob Riley, Robert Bell, Andrea Childers, Andrew Pinkerton) argued the proposed restrictions were overly broad, would hinder infrastructure projects, and lacked grandfathering for existing legal plants. A resident from District 6 requested a continuance for better public notice and understanding. Discussion Items - ZC-26-091 (Azle Ave Mini-Warehouses): The applicant requested a continuance. Commissioner Trujillo opposed a continuance, arguing the site was a prime commercial gateway for a revitalizing neighborhood and that mini-warehouses were a poor land use. The commission declined the continuance and moved to deny. - ZC-26-096 (Keller ISD): The commission held a vigorous debate. Commissioner Warman initially leaned toward approval due to the site's proximity to adult entertainment, deeming it unsuitable for families. He later reversed course, arguing a higher and better use existed and moved to deny. Commissioner Pierce consistently supported the applicant, arguing it was proper land use to prevent housing from being built next to the adult stores. Commissioners Edmonds and McCoy focused on the comprehensive plan and the negative recommendation from staff, siding with the neighbors. - ZC-26-046 & -109 (Recycling Centers): The commission praised the applicants for their exceptional community outreach, lack of code violations over decades of operation, and support from environmental groups and neighborhood associations. - ZC-26-100 (Sendera Ranch Car Wash): Commissioner Worman expressed hesitation about the land use fit. Despite the reservation, the motion passed with one abstention. - ZC-26-124 (N. Henderson St / Panther Island): The commission approved the high-density mixed-use vision for the Panther Island gateway, adding an exclusion for taxidermist shops to the list of permitted uses. - ZC-26-132 (Merrick St): Discussion focused on the parking strategy and a four-foot open wall/fence to create a pedestrian buffer. The commission noted the applicant's proactive parking plan and community engagement. - ZC-26-133 (Batch Plant Text Amendment): Staff presented the text amendment moving batch plants out of Light Industrial and Medium Industrial districts and adding a 1,000-foot setback. Commissioners received feedback that the language was problematic for existing operations and could create supply chain issues. A consensus quickly formed to delay a vote for extensive stakeholder negotiation. Key Outcomes - Denied: - ZC-26-091: Mini-warehouse PD at 5100 Azle Ave (11-0). - ZC-26-096: Light Industrial rezoning of Keller ISD land at Golden Triangle Blvd (10-1, Commissioner Pierce dissenting). - Continued: - ZC-26-114A: Continued to November 2026 for property owner engagement (11-0). - ZC-26-128: Continued to November 2026 to address community concerns and ownership disputes in Mosier Valley (9-2). - ZC-26-133: Text amendment on batch plants continued to January 2027 for revisions based on stakeholder input (11-0). - Approved: - ZC-26-046: Recycling center CUP for Southwest Paper Stock (11-0). - ZC-26-109: Recycling center PD for Ocean Star Management (11-0). - ZC-26-116: Law office rezoning at McCart Ave (11-0). - ZC-26-124: Mixed-use PD at N. Henderson St with taxidermy exclusion (11-0). - ZC-26-132: Steakhouse PD amendment at Merrick St (11-0). - ZC-26-100: Automated car wash CUP in Sendera Ranch (10-0, Commissioner Welch abstaining).

The Fort Worth Community Development Committee met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at approximately 4:06 p.m. in the City Council Work Session Room, adjourning at 4:34 p.m. Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores chaired the meeting. The committee received briefings on the Community Center Facility Master Plan and proposed Woodhaven Community Center, the Community Quarterback Training Program, and the NET Force update. No public comments were made, and no executive session was held. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes. Note: the agenda listed the August 11, 2026 minutes, but the chair referred to the September 15th meeting minutes. Discussion Items Community Center Facility Master Plan and Proposed Woodhaven Community Center - Joel McElhaney, Park and Recreation Assistant Director, presented the master plan. The agenda listed Teresa Thomason as presenting, but McElhaney delivered the briefing. The plan assessed all 25 facilities, including 24 community centers (with LAT Rise and North Park YMCA) and the Hawes Athletic Center, evaluating building condition, layout, mechanical/electrical/plumbing systems, capacity, and usage, plus benchmarking against other cities and national standards. - The assessment identified five service gaps, shown in different colors, in north, west, southwest, and east Fort Worth. The proposed Woodhaven Community Center, at the old Woodhaven Clubhouse, sits within the Hanley Meadowbrook Community Center capture radius and is intended to address an East Fort Worth service gap. - Phillip Michael Smart (Economic Development) reviewed TIF 13 funding: TIF 13 terminates at the end of 2028, with all remaining funds needing to be allocated. The fund balance is about $27.3 million, with a projected total of about $33 million. Neighborhood feedback emphasized economic development, connectivity, and gathering places, leading staff to prioritize the Woodhaven Business Park, Woodhaven Trail Connection, and Woodhaven Community Center. - The TIF request for the Woodhaven Community Center is $28 million; the November TIF board request is about $2.5 million for land acquisition and demolition. The center is planned at about 25,000 square feet. - Council members asked how the Woodhaven site was chosen. McElhaney cited the available roughly 5-acre site, existing parking and utilities, and the Woodhaven Conservation Plan listing a community center as its top priority. Smart and staff noted the property is owned by the developer who bought the former Woodhaven golf course. Council member Lauersdorf asked about the service gap methodology and advocated for other areas, including north and south Fort Worth; McElhaney explained the capture-radius mapping and said future bond programs would be the usual funding source for other centers. Community Quarterback Training Program - Smart presented a seven-month leadership program developed from the Main Street program, using the National Main Street four-point approach. In June 2025, the Fort Worth Local Development Corporation approved a two-year extension, and Main Street America (MSA) was engaged to lead training, working with city staff and the North Texas Community Foundation. - The program combines virtual and in-person workshops covering Main Street principles, market analysis, small business support, partnership building, fundraising campaigns, and work plans. Recruitment is expected to begin around the end of October. It is open to representatives from the 12 revitalization target areas, with citywide applications also considered. The target number of participants is 35, and participants should represent a broad cross-section of community members and commit to most workshops. - Council member Lauersdorf asked how the 12 target areas were identified and raised concerns about keeping the training community-centric rather than political. Smart said the target areas were originally identified by the city's economic development department using demographics and census data, with reassessment planned as part of the economic development strategic plan; the application process and a grading rubric would help applicants understand whether the workshops fit their work. Update on NET Force - Brian Daugherty, Code Compliance Director, updated the committee on the Nuisance Enforcement Task Force (NET Force). After a six-month pilot, the program was adopted in the current budget with additional staffing: one nuisance abatement officer, one supervisor, and two inspectors. - Pilot outcomes included: at ECO, six buildings declared hazardous by the Building Standards Commission and the owner obtaining permits and nearing full compliance; South Side Food Mart closing under Chapter 125; and Rockies 2 experiencing a significant reduction in criminal offenses and being listed for sale. The city also worked with TCEQ and ACT (Action for Community Transformation) on enforcement and litigation. - The program now uses three tiers: active list, monitoring, and properties of interest. The active list includes Cowboy Inn (District 2), Ranch Motel (District 2), Central Motel (District 11, with a pending demolition permit), Maribo Apartments, residential properties, and a shopping center. The first inspection at Ranch Motel that morning yielded code violations and three arrests. Monitoring includes the three pilot properties. Properties of interest include residential properties, lounges, and nightclubs. - A new public dashboard will be live when Daugherty presents to the City Council on the 20th (October 20, 2026). Staff will reassess capacity after six months and may expand to 10 active properties; the department is also seeking funding sources for demolition. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes, noting the agenda/transcript date discrepancy. - No formal votes were taken on the briefing items. Next steps include: TIF 13 board consideration of Woodhaven Community Center funding on November 4; a work session on the community center master plan on October 27; Park Board consideration on November 18; and City Council consideration on December 8. - The meeting adjourned at 4:34 p.m. without an executive session.

Date: October 13, 2026 Time: 3:00 PM (convened) Location: City Council Work Session Room, 100 Fort Worth Trail, Fort Worth, Texas This meeting of the Infrastructure and Growth Committee focused primarily on a briefing regarding updates to zoning regulations for the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). The committee discussed proposed amendments to treat satellite dispensing locations as pharmacies and to create a separate land use for cultivation and processing facilities. Members expressed concerns about allowing such facilities in light industrial (I) districts adjacent to residential areas and reached informal consensus to remove that zoning designation from the staff recommendation. Consent Calendar - Approval of May 12, 2026 Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously. Briefings - Texas Compassionate Use Program and Zoning Regulations – Dave McCorquodale, Planning Manager, Development Services, briefed the committee. The presentation reviewed the TCUP framework, existing state regulations, and staff's proposal to: - Amend the definition of "pharmacy" to include TCUP satellite locations, allowing them by right in all commercial and industrial zoning districts and certain form-based districts. - Create a new land use category for compassionate use cultivation, extraction, testing, packaging, processing, and distribution, limited to industrial districts IJ and K. - Staff reported that two of the three licensed dispensing organizations in Texas have pickup locations in Fort Worth, and two conditionally approved licenses exist in Public Health Region 3 (which includes Fort Worth, though specific locations are unknown). Discussion Items - Council Member Michael D. Crain asked clarifying questions about the program's scope, noting it is medicinal only and requires a prescription. He confirmed that satellite locations do not involve on-site manufacturing or packaging, and that the definition as a pharmacy allows for future expansion once a licensee has a satellite in all 11 public health regions. - Council Member Jeanette Martinez expressed concern about allowing cultivation and processing facilities in light industrial (I) districts that are often adjacent to single-family residential areas, potentially burdening economically disenfranchised communities. - Council Member Chris Nettles echoed these concerns, stating he is not in favor of any industrial uses (IJ or K) next to single-family housing. - Staff clarified that under current state law, each licensee can have only one cultivation site per public health region, limiting the potential number of such facilities. The two conditionally approved licenses for Region 3 may not yet be located in Fort Worth. - The committee discussed whether to remove light industrial (I) districts from the permitted zones for cultivation/processing facilities. Council member Martinez and another member (words attributed to Council Member Nettles or Crain) expressed agreement that light industrial should be excluded to prevent stigmatizing communities and avoid proximity to residential areas. Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken, but the committee reached informal consensus to remove light industrial (I) zoning districts from the allowed locations for compassionate use cultivation and processing facilities. Staff will revise the recommendation accordingly. - The committee upheld the proposal to treat satellite dispensing locations as pharmacies, allowing them in all zones where pharmacies are permitted. - The next steps will involve further legal review regarding preemption and potential adoption of the revised zoning amendments at a future City Council meeting.

The Fort Worth Property Management and Environmental Services Committee met on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, beginning at 2:01 p.m. in the City Council Work Session Room at 100 Fort Worth Trail, Fort Worth, Texas. Committee Chair Jeanette Martinez presided. Environmental Services staff delivered two briefings: one on recycling outreach and one on litter cleanup events and staff recognition. No formal votes were taken, and the committee adjourned at 2:23 p.m. Recycling Outreach Efforts - Cody Whittenburg of Environmental Services presented an update on recycling outreach, including two videos featuring Lola McCartney and Kim Garvey. The campaign emphasizes that recyclables should be 'empty, clean, and dry' and should be placed loose in the blue cart, not inside plastic bags. - Whittenburg reported that Fort Worth's recycling stream currently has about 30% contamination, and the city's goal is to reduce it to closer to 10%. He linked this effort to the city's $4.8 million in EPA funding, part of which supports recycling education and outreach over the next three years. - Fort Worth is one year into operation of the new WM recycling facility, which opened in October 2025. - The city will celebrate America Recycles Month in November and America Recycles Day on November 15, 2026. A city-hosted celebration will take place Saturday, November 14, 2026, at La Gran Plaza and Hewland Mall, featuring interactive displays, touch-a-truck events, and WM and Republic Services trucks, in partnership with library, parks, property management, and mall partners. - Whittenburg said a proclamation declaring November as America Recycles Month and November 15 as America Recycles Day is scheduled for the October 27 work session. - Council Member Lauersdorf asked about styrofoam recycling capability in Hillshire. Whittenburg explained that a grant-funded pilot accepts styrofoam at drop-off stations and processes it into blocks at the city's ECC, but when the processing machine is down there is a lag; he agreed to circle back on the issue. - Council Member Beck asked whether mirrors could be recycled. Whittenburg replied that the mirror's shiny coating makes the glass difficult to recycle, though repurposing partners such as the Wellman Project may reuse it. - Council Member Lauersdorf thanked Environmental Services for supporting a recent touch-a-truck event, describing the claw truck demonstration as 'by far the coolest thing there.' Litter Cleanup Events and Staff Recognition - Whittenburg described litter abatement work across the city, including 11 citywide crews and 2 highway crews, street sweeping, illegal dumping cleanup, campsite and nuisance abatement, and dead animal pickup. - A new UpSpire crew launched the week of the meeting, focused on high-traffic areas, entertainment corridors, and commercial corridors. Two new street sweepers have been ordered, with expected delivery in 12 to 18 months. - Staff recognized at the meeting included Assistant Director Wendy Turpin, Superintendent Neil Johnson, and supervisors Robert Collins, Justin Smith, Ronnie Smith, and JP Inojosa. - Upcoming events include the Neighborhood Litter Stomp, scheduled 8 to 11 a.m. on the weekend following the meeting; participants can register for free t-shirts, grabbers, supplies, bags, and drop-off vouchers. - A Tire Takeback event will be held 8 a.m. to noon at the South Side Community Center, formerly the Hazel Harvey Center for Neighborhoods, open to Fort Worth residents only and excluding tires from commercial businesses. - Planned fiscal year 2027 cleanup events include events at Sylvania Park, another event at Hazel Harvey/South Side Community Center, a citywide American Cowtown American Cleanup Day event in April, and events in Handley Meadowbrook and Lake Como. - Neil Johnson was honored for 22 years of service before his retirement in December. Whittenburg credited Johnson with expanding the UpSpire program from 3 to 19 crews, growing the street sweeping program to 12 pieces of fleet, developing routes and corridors with GIS, and building partnerships with NTTA and TxDOT. Johnson thanked the team and said he would continue working through the end of December. Key Outcomes - No formal council votes were taken; the two briefings were informational. - No requests for future discussion topics were made, and no executive session was required. - The committee adjourned at 2:23 p.m.

On October 13, 2026, the City of Fort Worth convened three separate committee meetings: the Audit and Finance Committee at 1:00 PM, an afternoon committee (covering recycling, litter cleanup, and medical marijuana zoning) at 2:00 PM, and the Community Development Committee at 4:06 PM. The meetings concluded by 4:34 PM. This summary covers all briefings, discussions, and decisions from the day. Consent Calendar - The Audit and Finance Committee approved the August 4, 2026 meeting minutes (motion passed unanimously). - The Community Development Committee approved the September 15, 2026 meeting minutes (passed unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made during any of the three committee meetings. Discussion Items Audit and Finance Committee (1:00 PM) - Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Audit Planning: Rachel Ormsby (audit partner) and Dan Barron (engagement partner) presented the risk assessment and planning for the FY2026 audit (year ending September 30, 2026). They outlined the audit team, responsibilities, scope (including single audit for federal/state grants), and timeline (field work through February, presentation in March). Three significant risks were identified: management override of controls, revenue recognition (especially grants), and non-compliance. Upcoming GASB pronouncements (103, 104, 105) were discussed, with implementation for FY2026. - Internal Audit Work Plan and Activities: City Auditor Patrice Randall reported on completed audits: major public event preparedness (FIFA) found adequate planning; internal service billings found uncharged third-party radio services; payroll internal controls discovered overpayments of approximately $28,000 to 38 employees (32 fire, 6 police) due to incentive pay errors (e.g., employees receiving both associate and bachelor degree incentives). Data analysis for Q3/Q4 found no major exceptions except late fees for waste management at MedSTAR and two duplicate payments totaling $700. Follow-up on NTTA toll tags showed continued charges for untagged vehicles; personal holiday pay was corrected. The audit office reported a 94% concurrence rate and updated its manual to comply with “yellow book” requirements. A peer review for calendar years 2024-2026 has been applied for. - Monthly Financial Report – Fiscal Year 2026 Final: Christine Simmons and Kate Perry presented the last monthly report. General fund highlights: property tax revenue was $13.8 million under budget due to mid-year value losses and appraisal errors; sales tax revenue was $3.5 million over budget, aided by World Cup activity. Departments deferred $16 million in discretionary spending, resulting in a net contribution to fund balance of $2.4 million (offsetting a budgeted use of $12.5 million). All departments were within budget except fire (less than 1% overage due to deployment costs). Police had significant vacancy savings. Other funds (enterprise, internal service, EMS) were all contributing to fund balances. The health fund received interest income allocation to support reserve compliance. Afternoon Committee – Recycling, Litter, and Medical Marijuana Zoning (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) - Recycling Outreach Update: Dr. Wittenberg (Director of Environmental Services) presented new educational videos and materials emphasizing the “Empty, Clean, Dry” message. Current contamination rate is approximately 30%, with a goal of reducing to 10%. The city received a $4.8 million EPA grant for education. America Recycles Day will be celebrated on November 14, 2026, at Hewland Mall and La Gran Plaza with touch-a-truck events. Partnership with Republic Services and WM was highlighted. Councilwoman Laura Starf asked about the styrofoam recycling machine at Hillshire; staff said the machine was temporarily out of service but shared that styrofoam can be dropped off at collection stations and processed at the ECC. - Litter Cleanup and Staff Recognition: Dr. Wittenberg recognized the Environmental Services litter team, including retiring superintendent Neil Johnson (22 years of service). Statistics: 11 citywide litter crews, 2 highway crews, street sweepers expanded to 12 vehicles. The team handles illegal dumping, camp cleanups, and dead animal pickup. Upcoming events: Neighborhood Litter Stomp on October 17 (8-11 AM) and Tire Takeback event on October 17 (8 AM-noon) at South Side Community Center. The team is partnering with TxDOT, NTTA, and other city departments. - Medical Marijuana Zoning Update: Dave (Planning Department) presented a recap of the March 10 presentation. The Texas Compassionate Use Program (T-CUP) allows low-dose THC cannabis for qualifying conditions via registered providers. Two of three licensed dispensaries have satellite locations in Fort Worth; 12 more licenses are conditionally approved, with two in Public Health Region 3. Staff recommendation (unchanged from March): define satellite locations as pharmacies (allowed in all commercial/industrial zones and some form-based districts) and establish a new land use for cultivation/extraction/testing/packaging/processing/distribution, allowed only in industrial IJ and K districts. Councilman Crane asked clarifying questions to confirm the update aligns with state law and does not legalize recreational marijuana. Councilman Martinez expressed concern about allowing cultivation/processing in light industrial zones adjacent to residential neighborhoods, suggesting removing light industrial (I) from the proposed uses. Staff noted that currently no cultivation sites are in Fort Worth, and only two conditional licenses exist for the region. No vote was taken; the committee discussed further study of preemption and potential conditional use permits. Community Development Committee (4:06 PM – 4:34 PM) - Community Center Facilities Master Plan and Woodhaven Community Center: Teresa Thompson presented the master plan, which assessed all 25 community center facilities (including Let Rise, North Park YMCA, and Hays Athletic Center) for age, condition, functionality, and capacity. Five service gaps were identified (north, west, southwest, east Fort Worth). The Woodhaven Clubhouse site (5 acres, owned by the developer of the former golf course) was selected for a new community center using TIF 13 funds. Philip Michael Smart explained that TIF 13 expires in 2028 and has a remaining balance of $27.3 million (expected total $33 million). The TIF board will be asked on November 4 to approve $2.5 million initially for acquisition and demolition, with a total project estimate of $28 million for a 25,000 sq ft center. The community center aligns with the Woodhaven Conservation Plan and the facility master plan. Councilman Charlie noted service gaps in south Fort Worth; staff explained future bond programs could address other areas. - Community Quarterback Training Program: A presentation on a 7-month leadership program developed from the Main Street pilot. The program will train 35 participants from 12 revitalization target areas (though open citywide) in corridor revitalization principles (design, economic vitality, organization, promotion). Workshops will be virtual and in-person, led by Main Street America and city staff, covering market analysis, fundraising, small business support, etc. The program begins in October 2026. Councilman addressed ensuring the trainings remain community-centric and not political; staff said the application process will clarify the focus. - Nuisance Enforcement Task Force (NetForce) Update: Brian Doherty (Code Compliance Director) reported on the pilot program’s success: three target properties (ECO, Southside Food Mart, Rockies 2, Sandy Oaks) saw significant improvements, including six buildings declared hazardous, owner compliance, property closures, and over 800 code violations corrected. The program was made permanent with additional staff. The new structure includes an active list (currently Cowboy Inn, Ranch Motel, Central Motel with pending demolition permit, Maribo Apartments, and residential properties), a monitoring list (pilot properties), and properties of interest (including lounges and nightclubs). The team meets monthly with participating departments. A new dashboard will be presented to council on October 20. The task force is also exploring funding for a demolition fund. Key Outcomes - The Audit and Finance Committee approved the August 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous). - The Community Development Committee approved the September 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous). - No other formal votes were taken; all items were briefings for discussion. - The medical marijuana zoning recommendation will be brought back to committee after further legal review regarding preemption and potential conditional use permits. - The Woodhaven Community Center project will proceed to the TIF 13 board on November 4, 2026, followed by a work session on October 27, park board on November 18, and city council on December 8. - NetForce will present its dashboard and seek a demolition fund; the annual evaluation of capacity will occur after six months. - The recycling and litter programs will continue with upcoming events on October 17 and November 14. - The community quarterback training program will begin in late October with applications.

The Fort Worth City Council met on October 13, 2026, for a regular meeting that included special presentations, consent agenda items, zoning cases, eminent domain resolutions, board appointments, and extensive public comment. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Mattie Parker and included an invocation and the Girl Scout Promise. Special Presentations - Susan G. Komen Greater Fort Worth Recognition: Councilmember Charlie Lauersdorf presented a proclamation recognizing the organization's 34 years of service, having raised more than $30 million by 2026. Executive Director Joy Rich reported that the October 3rd More Than Pink Walk raised over $525,000 so far. October 13th was noted as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. - Coach Darius White Recognition: Councilmember Chris Nettles recognized Darius White, a Dunbar High School graduate and former nationally ranked wide receiver (No. 3 wide receiver, No. 20 overall by ESPN). White founded Money Season Training and was honored for returning to the East Side to coach youth. - Becky Ramirez Recognition: Councilmember Nettles also recognized Becky Ramirez, founder of IREF, who has distributed over 2,000 whistles through the "Pass the Whistle" program, training sports officials via the YMCA. Consent Calendar - One speaker, Adrian Smith (District 9), spoke against Communication 26-0665 regarding school resource officers. He questioned the need for 57 officers in Fort Worth ISD given declining enrollment and suggested redirecting resources to patrol. The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Willoughby (non-consent agenda) raised six points about the 2027 council meeting schedule: restoring remote speaking, moving public comment to the top, starting meetings on time, avoiding future quorum breaks, allowing speakers in sign-up order, and holding developers to the same speaking standards. - Joshua Friend (Greater Meadowbrook Alliance) provided an update on East Side progress, thanking city staff for code enforcement, a new park purchase, and street sweeping. He presented a community-led prospectus to change perceptions of the East Side. - George Jordan Charles criticized data center development in neighborhoods, citing an interview with Rick Bennett of Black Mountain, and argued that environmental abuses amount to class warfare. - Adrian Smith (public comment) again advocated for remote speaking and praised the county's move to end contracts with an embattled senior living community. - EJ (speaker) was reminded to address the council; he and other speakers criticized council transparency, quorum breaks, and the decision to move the State of the City to December 15, 2026. - Allison Fitzgerald (District 3) called for increased funding for fine arts and LGBTQ inclusivity, noting Dallas has an Office of Arts and Culture. - Mario Alcala (District 8) expressed disappointment in council responsiveness, particularly regarding data center siting and campaign donations. - Christopher Johnson (District 11) asked for better treatment of underserved neighborhoods and youth investment. - Gwen Barud (Texans Defending Democracy) compared current council actions to historic civil rights struggles, criticizing the September 29th quorum loss and Mayor Parker's campaign donation to Tim O'Hare. - Manual Mata raised concerns about Fort Worth Police detectives failing to respond to domestic violence victims. - Alonda Watson (District 8) requested city help with cyclical code violations in Hillside, including an auto repair business and an abandoned building. - Nadia Cardinas thanked Councilwoman Deborah Peoples for legal action on voting sites but criticized Mayor Parker for donating to Tim O'Hare, and urged better government responsiveness. - Stephen Lawrence (Alamo Heights Neighborhood Association) criticized lack of transparency and responsiveness, citing the city's Flock Safety transparency page being empty. - Steven Sanchez supported Deborah Peoples' court action and urged voting. - Aisha Hassan (District 7) criticized council for disrespect during public comment and announced that voters are preparing for upcoming elections. Discussion Items - Items to be Continued/Withdrawn: Three zoning cases (ZC-26-017, ZC-26-016, ZC-26-007) continued to November 10, 2026. ZC-26-084 withdrawn. ZC-26-119 also continued to November 10. - Board Reappointments: Multiple reappointments approved for District 6 (with exception of Estrus Tucker), District 8, at-large Human Relations Commission (Glenda Diaz), and Mayor's Committee on Persons with Disabilities (four appointees). - Eminent Domain Resolutions: Three resolutions (MNC 26-1082, 26-1094, 26-0980) authorized condemnation for water and sewer projects in North Fort Worth and Riverside areas. All passed. - Zoning Cases: Several zoning items were approved, including: - ZC-26-064 (with thanks to developer for neighborhood cooperation) - ZC-26-101, ZC-26-105, ZC-26-107 (moved to approve despite a speaker being present for 107) - ZC-26-112 (amended to add parking standards for architectural and accounting firms) - ZC-26-113, ZC-26-114 (Northside Transit-Oriented Development – speaker Steven Sanchez supported but requested dust/debris mitigation) - ZC-26-117 (Panther Island area), ZC-26-121 (comprehensive zoning), ZC-26-099 (all approved) - Other: Resolution 26-6180 and 26-6124 (2027 council meeting schedule) approved. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Board Appointments: All recommended reappointments and new appointments approved without dissent. - Eminent Domain: Three resolutions passed to acquire land for water/sewer infrastructure. - Zoning Approvals: All zoning items on the agenda were approved, several with amendments or without opposition. - 2027 Meeting Schedule: Resolution 26-6124 approved, despite public criticism of the schedule and lack of remote speaking. - Public Comment: Several speakers called for more transparency, remote speaking, and accountability; no direct council action was taken in response.

The Downtown Design Review Board (DDRB) held a public hearing and regular meeting on 2026-10-13 at 10:45 UTC. Note: the raw transcript repeatedly identifies the meeting date as October 1, 2026, which conflicts with the date provided for this summary. Five board members were present: Paul Redma, Kirk Milliken, Leah Dunn, Brandon Burns, and Terry Bailey. Staff included Francisco Vega, Trey Qualls, Joe Laws, Andres Hernandez, Laura Young, and Jennifer Mullinshot in the audience. The board approved prior minutes, handled two administrative case changes, conducted a public hearing on a surface parking lot canopy waiver, and postponed another case. Announcements - Giovanni Gonzalez, a sophomore from Crowley, was introduced as a work-experience student at Downtown Forward Inc. - Staff noted the board may move future public hearings to the main chambers to use voting technology, with training to be scheduled. - Main Street Table drew about 600 people; Parade of Lights tickets go on sale November 22 at 6 p.m. Consent Calendar - Meeting minutes: The August 6, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously on a motion by Terry Bailey, with a second and a unanimous roll-call vote. - Case DG 2026 032 (Dr. Pepper building sign): Withdrawn. The proposed wall sign was initially 200 square feet, about five times the maximum allowed; after staff worked to scale it down, the applicant was not satisfied and decided not to include signage. - Case DG 2026 039: Continued to November. The applicant’s plans contained technical inaccuracies, including restrooms without doors and roof inconsistencies on elevations, so the applicant hired a new architect. It is a single-family home case seeking a sidewalk-related waiver. Public Comments & Testimony - Eddie Cervantes, Schwartz Hansen Architects (applicant, DG 2026 040): Presented the surface parking lot proposal. He said the only feasible interior tree locations are roughly four to four-and-a-half-foot end-cap islands, and adding trees would reduce parking by two to four spaces. The owner is open to installing trees if the board recommends them. - Alyssa Konor, Downtown Fort Worth Inc. (DFWI) Design Review Committee: Expressed support for the application with modifications. She stated the Heritage Park Streetscape project is at 95% construction drawings, spans the block from Houston to Throckmorton, would remove the drive-by lane, and would add street parking, wider sidewalks, and continuous street trees and lights. DFWI prefers that Belknap Street trees and lights not be required of this applicant because the separate streetscape project will install them. The full project is about four years away, with the streetscape component intended to bid this summer. - John Hamilton, civil engineer: Answered questions on parking lot standards, including that the one-way drive aisle width used is 14.5 feet per Fort Worth street parking ordinance guidelines. - No opposition speakers registered or testified. Discussion Items - DG 2026 040, identified in the transcript as both 11 Northeastern Street and 11 North Houston Street: The applicant requested a certificate of appropriateness for a new surface parking lot with approximately 32 parking spaces, plus a waiver from the 40% minimum tree canopy coverage requirement. Staff reported the former structure on the site had been demolished, making this a major modification under downtown standards. The proposal includes removing deteriorated planters, installing tree grates, replacing pedestrian lights, restriping, and adding chain-and-pole delineation. Staff calculated that 40% canopy coverage on the roughly 13,000-square-foot parking area equals about 5,200 square feet of canopy, requiring approximately three large canopy trees (about 2,000 square feet each) or a combination involving medium trees (about 700 square feet) and small trees (about 100 square feet). Street trees do not count toward the 40% canopy requirement. - Board deliberation: Members discussed whether to require interior canopy trees despite the tight site layout. One member supported two large trees in the interior islands, citing the site’s high visibility. Another member expressed concern about waiving Belknap Street trees: if the Heritage Park project does not proceed, there may be no city mechanism to install trees later. Staff responded that the Heritage Park project is likely, with continued coordination and a meeting the next day. - Reopened hearing: The applicant returned to say that along Houston Street, an adjacent property has an empty planter bed and an old light pole; if considered, the applicant would replace those as well. Key Outcomes - DG 2026 040 approved with modified waiver: The board voted unanimously to grant the certificate of appropriateness and to reduce the minimum tree canopy coverage waiver from 40% to 30%. Two large canopy trees would provide approximately 4,000 square feet of canopy, about 31% coverage. The motion carried unanimously by roll-call vote; the transcript’s vote call lists Redma, Milliken, Dunn, Blake, Burns, and Bailey, although only five members were announced as present at the start. - DG 2026 036 (1413 West Rio Grande) postponed: Because the applicant was not present, and after staff noted a prior absence contributed to a four-month appeal/Board of Adjustment process, the board unanimously voted to continue the case to November. Staff also reported that a mural at the property has already been painted, is under violation, and the applicant will need to return for disapproval. - Next meeting: The November DDRB meeting is currently scheduled for November 5, 2026, but the chair said it might be moved back one week or canceled due to scheduling and staff preparation constraints.