Public Meetings - Fort Worth, Texas

This was the second of ten public meetings on the City of Fort Worth's proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, held at the Crowley ISD community room. City Manager Jay Choppa and Budget Director Christy Ann Simmons presented a $3.32 billion operating budget and $4.35 billion total budget. The central challenge was a $94 million gap driven by a decline in property tax revenue due to the Tarrant Appraisal District's reappraisal plan and mid-year value losses. The gap was closed through departmental reductions, fee increases, and a proposed 3.2-cent property tax rate increase (to 70.2 cents per $100 valuation), which is partially offset by falling home values. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident asked why the city chose a tax rate increase rather than a higher rate to eliminate fees, suggesting the increase would be more equitable. City Manager Choppa explained that fees are more tied to service use and less regressive than property taxes. - Another resident asked about a Tarrant Appraisal District proposal to use third-party technology to track private aircraft for business personal property taxes, noting the city could gain $10 million in revenue. Choppa said the city declined to pay an upfront cost of nearly $3 million, and TAD later changed the model. - A resident suggested buying smaller fire trucks to save on vehicle maintenance costs. Choppa responded that standard pumpers are required for urban fire suppression but said the city would look into it. - A resident expressed concern about reductions to the Priority Repair Program and the Mobile Tool Shed program, noting they help low-income seniors and disabled residents. Simmons clarified that the Tool Shed program is reduced from four to three staff, not eliminated, and the Priority Repair cut is $75,000 out of $4.5 million. - A resident asked about the lack of budget for community services like affordable housing and food banks. The city manager noted the city does not have a food bank budget. - A resident questioned why impact fees are not set at 100% to raise more revenue. Choppa explained that impact fees are tied to the specific impact on assets and cannot be used for other purposes. - A resident asked about the cost of the Axon 911 call-taking technology. The city manager said they would provide the total cost. - A resident criticized the Freeport exemption for warehouses, arguing it reduces tax revenue. Choppa explained that the exemption is a state law and that incentives are used to attract investment that generates jobs and property taxes on buildings. - A resident asked about attrition rates and whether the city is using vacancies to reduce expenditures. Choppa said the city is freezing about 120 positions and eliminating others, with attrition rates of 5% for police, <1% for fire, and 12–16% for other general fund employees. - A retired CPA suggested that TAD increase audits of business property tax renditions, as many are inaccurate. Choppa agreed. - A resident urged the council to add more funding for quality-of-life services like parks and code compliance, noting that public safety already received raises. Discussion Items - Simmons presented the budget development process: at the peak, the gap was $94 million. Departments were asked to cut 1% ($7.8M) and then an additional 3% ($14.5M) in reductions. After receiving certified values from TAD, deeper cuts of $28.5M were made, including reducing general employee pay raises from 4-5% to 3% mid-year (effectively 1.5%). Fee increases generated $6.3M, and a 3.2-cent tax rate increase was recommended to close the remaining $37M gap. - Public safety additions: 76 new patrol officers (funded through CCPD), 30 corporal positions in patrol for career advancement, full funding for the Axon 911 pilot, and increased fire department funding for overtime and fleet costs. The HOPE homelessness outreach program is being eliminated, with fire personnel returning to suppression duties; a mobile integrated health unit from MedStar EMS will take over some HOPE services. - Community investment reductions: Alliance PetSmart Adoption Center closure (proposed $403,000 savings, but council members indicated it was a non-starter in the work session earlier that day); Priority Repair Program reduced by $75,000; Mobile Tool Shed reduced from 4 to 3 staff; Neighborhood Improvement Program funding staggered to $1 million in year one; Economic Development Initiatives Fund transfer reduced from $5 million to $500,000; Nuisance Abatement pilot continued with additional code officers. - Fee increases: Water and wastewater (8.7% budget growth, rate increase 2%), solid waste, stormwater, environmental fee (flat $2.50). The average residential utility bill (water, stormwater, solid waste, environmental) is projected to increase from $1,286 to $1,372 (up $85), partially offset by a slight decrease in the property tax bill. - The city's capital plan for FY2027 is $1.03 billion, mostly water infrastructure. Pay-as-you-go capital maintenance is reduced by $2.8 million due to static tax rate and falling values, but transportation and public works still receive 82% of that funding. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was a public input session. The next public hearing is scheduled for September 1, 2026, with adoption of the tax rate and budget on September 15, 2026. - Council members present indicated the Alliance PetSmart Adoption Center closure is likely not to be included in the final budget, and staff will look for alternative savings. - The city manager emphasized that the $3.2 billion operating budget is balanced under state law, and the only lever for general fund revenue is property tax rates and fees; other funds (water, aviation, etc.) cannot be used to close the general fund gap. - The budget includes a 3.2-cent tax rate increase, but due to declining home values, the average homeowner's city property tax bill is projected to decrease slightly (exact figures were not clearly stated in the transcript).

Councilman Chris Nettles hosted a district-wide budget meeting on August 25, 2026, to present the City Manager’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2027. City Manager Jay Chapa and Budget Director Christine Simmons detailed a $4.35 billion total budget facing a $94 million gap driven by Tarrant Appraisal District (TAD) activities that froze residential values and increased protests. The recommended budget includes a 3.2‑cent property tax rate increase (to 70.2 cents), a 1% departmental cut, and a subsequent 3% reduction round, followed by deeper cuts after certified values arrived 25 July. Public safety (police and fire) receives the largest additions, while other departments see reductions intended to minimize service‑level impacts. Residents asked about tax base composition, executive compensation, program priorities, and economic development. Public Comments & Questions - A resident asked why the city faces a gap despite growth; staff explained TAD’s reappraisal plan and property value erosion. - A Highland Hills resident requested revitalization assistance for the entrance of their community and asked about water usage from a fire hydrant at a nearby construction site. City Manager Jay Chapa confirmed the hydrant is metered and the contractor pays for water used. - A questioner asked about the city’s strategy to shift from 60% residential / 40% commercial tax base toward a more balanced mix. Jay Chapa noted an active economic development program and a slow shift of about 5% over 15 years, hindered by TAD’s actions. - Another resident inquired whether executive compensation is being reduced during austerity. Staff responded that the City Manager’s office is eliminating one executive and two managerial positions, and general employees are receiving only a 1.5% pay increase. - A question about tree‑planting (26% reduction) versus municipal golf (13% increase) was answered: golf is self‑funded by users, while tree‑planting’s reduction reflects the absence of vehicle purchases in the coming year. - A final question asked what types of businesses the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership (FWEDP) attracts. Jay Chapa stated FWEDP focuses on headquarters and manufacturing, not warehouses; warehouses locate in Fort Worth due to transportation infrastructure. Discussion Items - Budget Context & Gap: Christine Simmons explained that Fort Worth’s growth is not translating to property tax revenue because TAD appraises residential property every other year and granted record protests. Taxable home values have fallen, while Dallas and Collin counties continue annual reappraisals and growth. Commercial values grew 2.5–3% but were offset by residential declines. The total operating budget is $3.3 billion; the general fund is $1.15 billion. The highest gap reached $94 million. Reductions included a 1% departmental cut ($7.8M), a 3% reduction menu ($14.5M), and additional cuts after certified values worsened. A $37 million gap remained, leading to the proposed 3.2‑cent tax rate increase (from 67 cents to 70.2 cents). - Public Safety: The budget repurposes the fire HOPE homeless outreach program by moving four firefighters back to suppression and partnering with the mobile integrated health team, saving overtime. Additions include 76 patrol officers, 30 patrol corporals for a new promotional path, and funding for an Axon 911 call‑triaging pilot. Fire growth ($52.6M) includes $30M for the EMS subsidy (now $30M from $20M), a placeholder for a new fire bargaining agreement, and contractual pay increases. - Infrastructure: PAYGO (pay‑as‑you‑go) capital maintenance is kept at the same rate (7.25 cents), but due to falling values it yields $2.8 million less. A street maintenance fee is authorized but not yet implemented; it is renamed the Pavement Management Fee and will appear on water bills in the future. - Community Investment: The budget avoids widespread library or community center closures. Original recommendations included closing the Alliance PetSmart Adoption Center (council members have asked for alternatives), a small reduction to the Priority Repair Program, and a reduction in the Mobile Tool Shed program (from four to three staff). The Neighborhood Improvement Program is phased to match actual spending ($4M to $1M in year one). The budget continues the Net Force nuisance‑abatement pilot. - Economic Development: The general fund transfer to the Economic Development Initiatives Fund is reduced by 90% (from $5M to $500,000). The city continues chamber partnerships, small business programs, and adds a position for neighborhood revitalization coordination. - Responsible Growth: Vehicle/equipment replacements are moved to debt financing via tax notes, relieving the general fund. Group health fund employer contributions are increased to cover rising claims. Fee increases across departments are included. - Enterprise Funds & Special Revenue Funds: Water, solid waste, stormwater, airports, parking, EMS, CCPD, golf, and tree‑planting funds are described. Most are self‑supporting. EMS requires a $30M general fund subsidy. The public events fund temporarily declines due to convention center expansion. - Taxpayer Impact: For an average home with homestead exemption, taxable value falls from $246,541 to $232,925; even with the tax rate increase, the city property tax bill decreases by $16.69 annually. Combined with fee changes, the average monthly water bill increases by $7.09. Key Outcomes - The budget is presented as a proposal; council will hold a public hearing on September 1 and adopt the tax rate and budget on September 15. - Council members have already asked for changes, including alternatives to closing the PetSmart Adoption Center and exploring CCPD as a funding source for general fund costs. - Additional budget work sessions continue; Friday’s session was moved to 1:00 PM to accommodate a funeral. - Residents were encouraged to direct further questions to Councilman Nettles’ office and to watch past work sessions on Connect Fort Worth or the Fort Worth Lab website.

The Fort Worth City Council held a public hearing on the City Manager's proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 on August 25, 2026. The presentation highlighted a $94 million gap due to structural imbalance from reduced property tax valuations, leading to a recommended tax rate increase from 67 cents to 70.2 cents per $100 valuation. City staff detailed cuts across departments, with a focus on preserving public safety and minimizing service-level impacts. Several members of the public spoke in support of or against the proposed tax rate increase and specific cuts. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker (identified as a former council member) supported raising the tax rate to the voter-approved rate plus unused increment, citing concerns about future state mandates and the need to fund services. - Melissa Scott, Library Advisory Board member, thanked staff for not deeply cutting library budgets and highlighted the library's growth and partnerships. - Carol Peters, West Bedabrick Neighborhood Association, expressed concern about cuts to code compliance and the HOPE team, noting the strain on the 43% of the budget that is flexible. - A speaker (Kathy Nies Brown) thanked the presenters and reiterated support for the library. - A speaker (Dan) asked about Lake Worth lake marshal budget, noting no changes were proposed. - A speaker commented on the 8.5% salary increase for fire department, calling it unreasonable compared to private sector. - Another speaker supported increasing the tax rate to address the structural imbalance, while another individual said they were happy to see their taxes go down and suggested a voluntary contribution option. Discussion Items - City Manager Jay Choppa explained the $75 million shortfall and the need to balance the budget, noting the first property tax rate increase since 1995. - Chief Transformation Officer Christianne Simmons presented the budget breakdown: $3.32 billion operating budget, general fund growing 4.6%, overall operating funds growing 7.5%. The gap was closed through 1% departmental cuts ($7.8M), 3% additional reductions ($14.5M), deeper reductions, revenue increases (e.g., aviation covering fire costs, development services fee increases), and a 3.2-cent tax rate increase. - Key proposed reductions: elimination of the Fire Department's HOPE program (homeless outreach), reduction of the PetSmart Adoption Center at Alliance, 3% reduction in code compliance and neighborhood services priority repair program, phasing of the Neighborhood Improvement Program ($4M to $1M), and 90% reduction in the transfer to the Economic Development Incentives Fund ($5M to $500k). - Public safety additions: 76 patrol officers, creation of corporal positions, funding for fire overtime and fleet, and continuation of AI triage assistive technology for 911. - Infrastructure: street maintenance fee authorized for FY28, pay-go capital reduced by $2.8M due to static rate and falling values. - Enterprise funds: water budget growing 8.7%, stormwater 5% rate increase, solid waste, aviation, parking. - Special revenue: CCPD adding school resource officers, EMS growing 16% with $30M general fund subsidy, environmental protection flat, municipal golf self-supporting. - Average taxpayer: home value decreased, tax rate increase results in slight tax bill decrease ($16.69), but total resident charges (water, solid waste, etc.) increase by $5.70/month. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken at this public hearing; the meeting was informational and for public input. - City Council will hold additional budget work sessions and public hearings; adoption is scheduled for September 15, 2026. - The proposed tax rate of 70.2 cents per $100 is under consideration; a speaker advocated for raising it to the voter-approved rate of 78 cents. - Staff will provide additional information on reductions to code compliance, neighborhood services, and the HOPE program in future work sessions.

The Fort Worth City Council held a work session on August 25, 2026, to receive presentations and discuss several key items including the DFW Airport FY27 budget, a proposed economic development agreement with Carrier Corporation, updates on the 2026 bond program, and the contractor accountability process. Council members also raised future agenda items for staff follow-up. Discussion Items - DFW Airport FY27 Budget Presentation: Brian Butler, CFO, presented the $1.63 billion budget (operating $820.6M, debt service $801.8M, contingency $10M). Passenger forecast of 87.7 million (2.6% increase). Landing fee set at $4.40 per 1,000 lbs, terminal rental rate $460/sq ft. Tax sharing to Fort Worth was $13 million in FY25. Council asked several questions; a joke about renaming to "Fort Worth Dallas International Airport" was made. - Public Facilities Improvement Corporation (PFIC) Projects: Two projects requested designation as PFIC eligible: (1) Purchase of three international cargo buildings from Prologis for $100M (internal rate of return 15.7%) plus lease extensions; (2) Acquisition of Hyatt Regency DFW for $193.65M. Both were approved by PFIC and airport boards and require city council approval. Councilmember Flores noted no material impact on city funds. - DFW Airport Code Change: Request to reduce speed limit on International Parkway from 55 mph to 45 mph due to congestion from construction. Speeding tickets go to Grapevine Municipal Court. - Economic Development Agreement with Carrier Corporation: Presented by Brianna Brown. Carrier proposes a $433.8 million advanced manufacturing facility in Alliance (Council District 10), creating 495 jobs with average wages of $55,000. The city would offer a 7-year, 60% tax abatement valued at $10.9M (net present value $8.7M). City would be cash positive year one, with net new taxes of $7.3M over the term. Staff recommended bringing the agreement and Texas Enterprise Zone nomination to council on September 15. - 2026 Bond Project Schedule: April Rose Escamilla presented the $845M voter-authorized bond program. An extendable commercial paper (ECP) program of up to $845M will allow early funding. A baseline schedule shows 156 projects; a new dashboard provides interactive, district-level tracking by quarter. A public bond website is expected in early 2027. Council praised the dashboard. - Contractor Accountability Process Update: DJ Harrell presented the proposed process for repeat violators (three violations in 12-month period lead to suspension). Councilor Rebecca questioned whether the 12-month lookback period is sufficient, suggesting 24 months. Interim Building Official Rachel Parrish noted 850 complaints/year for work without permits (70% from citizens). Staff agreed to examine the 24-month option. Councilor Hall requested a report on prevalence of violators. Councilor Flores asked for a similar process for zoning accountability. Staff will consider adding notification to council about properties with violations. - Panther Island Form-Based Code Update: Francisco Vega presented an update on the Vision 2.0 plan, reducing the number of subdistricts from 9 to 2 (Panther Island Core and Panther Island Edge). The new code removes the non-permitted use table and adds a permitted use table for clarity. A regulating plan identifies street types and waterfront design rules. Councilor Flores emphasized the importance of this update. - Budget Responses and Future Agenda Items: Christian Simmons took follow-up questions. Councilor Rebecca asked about funding for the door-to-door vendor registration program (staff said it is budgeted at $30,000 revenue neutral). Budget discussion included a possible $324,000 addition for alleyway mowing (Councilor Larson noted may consider sister cities funding). Councilor Hill requested an overview of sales tax collections over past 5 years. Future agenda items included: update on smoke shops operating under general commercial COs (Councilor Larson), reducing residential speed limits to 25 mph (Councilor Larson, with staff to revisit prior study), feasibility of a street maintenance fee similar to Dallas/DART (Councilor Larson), history of Trinity Metro sales tax sharing (Councilor Mjolrsdorf), exterior inspection process for COs (Councilor Craig), risk fund payouts and outside counsel costs (Councilor Craig), property acquisition under the good natured program (Councilor Craig), and summer programming metrics at community centers (Councilor McCall). Key Outcomes - Council will consider resolutions at a future meeting (likely September 15) to approve the DFW Airport FY27 budget, designate PFIC projects and approve lease extensions, and amend the airport speed limit code. - The economic development agreement with Carrier will be brought to council on September 15 for approval. - Staff will report back on extending the contractor violation lookback period to 24 months and on prevalence data. - The bond program dashboard will be updated quarterly; a public website is in development. - Staff will prepare responses to the future agenda items requested by council members. - No formal votes were taken during the work session; all discussions were preparatory.

The meeting convened at approximately 7:30 PM and included approval of prior meeting minutes, discussion and votes on three major agenda items: a new restaurant's signage at 901 Houston Street, two single-family homes on North Diamond Avenue, and phase 2 of the Fort Worth Convention Center exterior improvements. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes from April 2, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 024 (901 Houston Street): Bill Swift, sign company representative, presented the signage plan and defended the use of high-density urethane for decorative panels. Jason Cross, restaurant owner, spoke in favor, highlighting the need to draw attention to a basement concept and the desire to complement downtown architecture. Melissa Knur, representing Downtown Fort Worth Inc. (DFWI), testified that the DFWI committee found the proposed signage plan too busy and recommended simplification: removal of the decorative wall panels, relocation of the blade sign to the 8th & Park corner, removal of the menu sign, and adding a sconce. The committee also raised concerns about material durability. - Cases 029/030 (406 & 408 North Diamond): Casey, representing Newpad Building Company, presented the two identical single-family homes and noted that DFWI feedback had been incorporated except for increasing the size of the porch columns. Melissa Knur testified DFWI was supportive of the project but wanted more substantial porch columns to give the entry more presence, a change the applicant did not make. - Case 028 (Convention Center Phase 2): Michael Bennett, project lead, presented the North Plaza design, including native plant bioswales, shade structures, a monument sign, and a comprehensive signage plan. Melissa Knur testified DFWI was very supportive, emphasizing the partnership with BRIT for native plants, the need for ongoing maintenance, and suggesting that seating with integrated planters could help reduce the heat island effect near the building. She also noted that the 9th Street canopy wall sign felt duplicative of the monument sign. Discussion Items - Case 024 – 901 Houston Street Signage: Staff recommended approval of the certificate of appropriateness (COA) for one canopy sign, one blade sign, and one wall sign (menu board), along with two waivers: (A) from sign area standards (allowing 20.63 sq ft vs. maximum 6.53 sq ft) and (B) from canopy sign standards (allowing the emblem to extend beyond the canopy width). Staff recommended denial of the two decorative wall panels, which they considered non-architectural and visually cluttering. The board discussed the blade sign location; options included the corner of 8th & Houston (preferred by the applicant) and two locations near the entrance (preferred by the board to mark the door). The board decided to approve the blade sign contingent on coordination with staff to determine the final location. - Cases 029/030 – Single-Family Homes: Staff recommended approval of the COA and a waiver to reduce sidewalk width from 7 feet to 5 feet, noting that 5 feet is the standard citywide for residential areas. The board briefly discussed DFWI’s recommendation for larger porch columns but did not require it, approving both homes as presented. - Case 028 – Convention Center Phase 2: Staff recommended approval of the COA and three waivers: (A) from street tree standards to allow bioswales and other plantings instead of trees every 25 feet; (B) from sign area standards for a 186.53 sq ft ground floor wall sign (max 35 sq ft); (C) from monument sign standards for a 200 sq ft monument sign (max 60 sq ft per face). The board discussed the duplicative nature of the 9th Street canopy wall sign (reading “Fort Worth Convention Center”) given the monument sign at the main entrance. The board voted to exclude that wall sign from approval, but allowed the canopy sign at the northeast entry and other signage to proceed. Key Outcomes - Case 024: Approved the COA and both waivers for the canopy sign, blade sign (location to be coordinated with staff), and wall sign. Decorative wall panels denied. Vote: 6–0. - Cases 029 & 030: Approved the COA and sidewalk width waiver for both properties on a single vote. Vote: 6–0. - Case 028: Approved the COA and all three waivers, but the 9th Street canopy wall sign was excluded from the approval. Vote: 5–0. The meeting adjourned after the convention center vote. The next regular meeting was announced for September 2026 (the chair initially said October but corrected to September).

The Fort Worth Building Standards Commission convened on August 24, 2026, at 9:31 a.m. to hear several cases involving substandard and hazardous structures, nuisance abatement, and civil penalty assessments. All votes were unanimous (7-0). The meeting recessed for lunch at approximately noon, with one amendment case tabled until after recess. Consent Calendar - Motion to accept previous meeting minutes carried 7-0. - Motion to accept the evidentiary packet carried 7-0. - Motion to withdraw five cases (ACP 2696, ACP 2697, ACP 2686, HS 2557) carried 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - 2309 Primrose Avenue: Property manager (representing New Nest Properties, LLC) stated work had begun and requested 60 days to complete a full rehab. City staff recommended 30 days. - 4101 Eastland Street: Marilyn A.G., surviving child of deceased owners, stated she was not willing to incur repair costs, was negotiating sale to a company, and requested 60 days to finalize sale or demolish. She agreed the structure was substandard. - 3101 Northwest 25th Street: Owner Josie Monroe and daughter Stephanie Munro testified. Josie acknowledged neglect, had engaged a contractor, and requested 90 days due to health issues and pending Social Security income. Stephanie asked for 90 days, citing additional damage from a vehicle hitting the house. - 700 Griggs Avenue: Jose Frias, son of owner Guadalupe Frias, requested 90 days to demolish the structure, citing lack of funds but stating police had been responding to graffiti. - 712 West Wagaman Street: Raymond Garcia, son of deceased owner Zita Garcia, asked for 30 days to allow out-of-state siblings to retrieve belongings before demolition. He confirmed the family was unopposed to demolition. - 2770 Belze Terrace: Contractor Sigali McKinney (representing new owners) stated the roof had been replaced, permits were obtained, and requested 60 days for completion. - 2704 Hannah Avenue: Stephen Wilson, a tenant, claimed he had a lease and wanted to repair the property, requesting time until end of year. He stated the damage was caused by a former occupant and that he had water but no electricity. - 1704 Saxony Road: Neighbor Luke Armstrong testified in support of demolition, citing rodent and stray animal problems from the vacant property. Two other interested parties did not speak. A continuance request was denied. - 9600 Santa Paula Drive (ACP 2691): Owner Carl Cole appeared, stated he had been hauling away debris for two years, requested 90 days for cleanup, and asked for reduction of the proposed $4,400 civil penalty. City noted some progress. - 3214 Prospect Avenue (ACP 2692): Curtis Washington (son of deceased owner) testified he was cleaning both his father’s properties, had been injured, and requested 60 days. City recommended no civil penalty due to owner’s death. - 3218 Prospect Avenue (ACP 2693): Same owner as above. Curtis Washington requested 90 days, noting debris from neighbor’s fallen trees. City recommended no penalty. - 4321 H Avenue and 4301 H Avenue (ACP 2694 and 2695): Multiple parties appeared: Philip Burgess (attorney for estate administrator), and lienholder Rashad Berry Hill. Both requested 90 days for cleanup; Burgess noted an unauthorized occupant required legal action. City recommended no penalty due to deceased owners. Discussion Items New Case Residential Hearings - 2309 Primrose Avenue: City staff presented evidence of substandard conditions (deteriorated framing, water damage, holes). Property manager requested 60 days; commission granted 60 days. - 4101 Eastland Street: City staff reported holes in roof, rotted joists, insect infestation. Owner’s child requested 60 days; commission granted 60 days. - 3101 Northwest 25th Street: City staff cited severe exterior damage, foundation shift, exposed wiring. Owners requested 90 days; commission granted 60 days. - 700 Griggs Avenue: City staff noted dismantled roof, missing walls. Owner’s son requested 90 days; commission granted 30 days due to safety concerns. - 712 West Wagaman Street: City staff documented fire damage, collapsed ceiling, debris. Owner’s son requested 30 days; commission granted 30 days. - 2770 Belze Terrace: City staff reported fire damage, collapsed roof, foundation cracks. Contractor requested 60 days; commission granted 60 days. - 2704 Hannah Avenue: City staff reported foundation shift, severe deterioration, unauthorized persons. Tenant requested time until end of year; commission granted 30 days. - 1704 Saxony Road: City staff documented breaches, rotted roof, biological growth, rodent infestation. No owners present; neighbor urged demolition. Commission granted 30 days. Administrative Civil Penalty Cases - 9600 Santa Paula Drive (ACP 2691): Nuisance abatement case (debris accumulation). City recommended $4,400 penalty (100/day for 44 days) and 30-day cleanup. Owner requested 90 days and penalty reduction. Commission granted 90 days with $4,400 penalty. - 3214 Prospect Avenue (ACP 2692): Nuisance abatement case. City recommended no penalty and 30-day cleanup due to owner’s death. Owner’s son requested 60 days. Commission granted 60 days with no penalty. - 3218 Prospect Avenue (ACP 2693): Similar to above. Owner’s son requested 90 days; commission granted 90 days with no penalty. - 4321 H Avenue (ACP 2694): Nuisance abatement. City recommended no penalty, 30 days. Estate attorney and lienholder both requested 90 days. Commission granted 90 days with no penalty. - 4301 H Avenue (ACP 2695): Same situation, same recommendation. Commission granted 90 days with no penalty. Amendment Case (tabled) - 4701 South Riverside Drive (HS 2638): Toby Evans (son of owner) requested additional time to sell property. He had filed an amendment without proper power of attorney. City objected. Commission voted to table the case until after the lunch recess pending proof of authority. Key Outcomes - All structures in new case hearings were declared substandard and hazardous (7-0 each). - Orders for repair or demolition were issued with compliance periods as follows: - 2309 Primrose Avenue: 60 days - 4101 Eastland Street: 60 days - 3101 Northwest 25th Street: 60 days - 700 Griggs Avenue: 30 days - 712 West Wagaman Street: 30 days - 2770 Belze Terrace: 60 days - 2704 Hannah Avenue: 30 days - 1704 Saxony Road: 30 days - In all cases, if owners failed to comply, city staff were authorized to enter and demolish with costs leined against the property. - For nuisance abatement cases: - 9600 Santa Paula Drive: 90 days to abate, civil penalty of $4,400 (100/day for 44 days). - 3214 Prospect Avenue: 60 days to abate, no civil penalty. - 3218 Prospect Avenue: 90 days to abate, no civil penalty. - 4321 H Avenue: 90 days to abate, no civil penalty. - 4301 H Avenue: 90 days to abate, no civil penalty. - Amendment case (4701 South Riverside Drive) tabled until after the lunch recess. - Owners and lienholders were advised of their rights to request amendments or appeal to Tarrant County District Court within 30 days of mailing of the order.

The Fort Worth Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) Board of Directors met on Friday, August 21, 2026, immediately following the City Council Budget Work Session. The primary action was consideration and approval of the FY2027 Recommended CCPD Budget totaling $146,725,173.00. The meeting included a staff presentation, a public hearing (with no speakers present but written comments submitted), and a detailed discussion on the use of Flock ALPR technology and constitutional policing. Public Comments & Testimony - Two individuals registered to speak (Antoine Joseph Hadari and Ryan Al Moussawi) were not present. Written comments were submitted, distributed to the board, and placed on file. Discussion Items - FY2027 Budget Presentation: Keith Morris, Assistant Director of Police, presented a simplified overview of the budget changes between FY2026 and FY2027. Total expenses increased by $8.1 million, revenue increased by $6 million, and a planned use of fund balance of $2.1 million was included. Staffing changes were outlined, including the movement of a sergeant from the CIT team to the Stockyards bike patrol team. Reductions across programs (e.g., crime prevention specialists) were made through cuts to operating supplies rather than eliminating entire programs. - Program Evaluation and Partner Review: Chief Garcia and Councilmember Charlie Lauersdorf discussed evaluating CCPD partners through a criminological lens to ensure programs are evidence-based and effective in reducing crime. The Chief emphasized being good stewards of CCPD dollars and using data to measure program impact. - Flock ALPR and Constitutional Policing: In response to a question from Councilmember Michael Crain about submitted comments on license plate readers, Chief Garcia provided an extensive overview of the department's approach to Flock technology. He highlighted its value in solving crimes and reducing violent crime, while acknowledging the need for robust guardrails. He outlined a work plan including: developing a structured process for use, misuse detection audits, annual recertification for officers, updating the ALPR general order, and advocating for state-level penalties for misuse similar to CJIS violations. Councilmember Chris Nettles requested that a future presentation include both successes and any missteps or abuses locally and nationally. Mayor Mattie Parker suggested that all council members visit the Real-Time Crime Center to inform future discussions. Key Outcomes - Approval of FY2027 CCPD Budget: The board voted unanimously to approve the FY2027 Recommended CCPD Budget in the amount of $146,725,173.00. Mayor Flores complimented staff for their hard work and responsiveness to questions. - Future Agenda Items: A request for a future agenda item regarding the Flock ALPR presentation was noted by staff.

The Fort Worth City Council held a budget work session on August 21, 2026, to review proposed fee increases for FY27 and discuss options for restoring previously recommended cuts to services and positions. The council heard presentations from the Fort Worth Lab and several department directors, and provided direction to staff to prepare a revised budget that includes service restorations and a mid-year pay-for-performance plan for general employees, while still keeping the average property tax bill below the current year. Discussion Items - Property Tax Rate: The recommended budget includes a 3.2% increase to the tax rate (to $0.702 per $100 valuation), but because taxable values have fallen, an average homeowner would pay about $16.69 less per year (a 1% decrease). - Water, Wastewater, and Stormwater Fees: Water fixed charge increases 5% ($0.70/month), wastewater fixed charge 6% ($0.63/month), and stormwater fee increases 5% ($0.36/month). Volumetric rates for water are unchanged; wastewater volumetric increases <1%. - Solid Waste Rates: Recommended 20% increase for a typical 96-gallon cart ($5.15/month; $62/year) to ensure long-term capital planning. - Environmental Fee: 11% increase ($0.25/month; $3/year). - Combined Impact: Total increase for a typical household is $5.70/month ($68/year), which equates to less than a 2% annual increase when property tax savings are included. - Development Fees: A 5% across-the-board increase, supported by the Development Advisory Committee and Real Estate Council. Impact on a newly built home is estimated at less than $100. - Parks and Recreation Fees: Junior golf pass fee increase (special rates for First Tee and ISDs unaffected); community center and nature center fees adjusted for benchmarking; no increase in non-resident fees for the nature center. - Credit Card Processing Fee: Staff recommended raising the pass-through cap from 2.5% to 5% to cover actual vendor costs (some vendors charge up to 5%). Councilmember Larsdorf requested a review of current rates and vendor pricing. - EMS and Municipal Court Fees: EMS fee increase to be discussed at Public Safety Committee in September; new civil parking fees and increased boot fee proposed. - Budget Responses and Restoration Options: Staff provided a menu of service restorations from five departments (Code, Development Services, Library, Parks & Recreation, Transportation & Public Works) along with the cost to add back positions and programs. The total restoration cost (including mid-year pay-for-performance at 4.5% for non-executive staff) is equivalent to a tax rate increase of 0.364391, which would still result in an average tax bill approximately $8 lower than FY26 (vs. $16 lower in the original proposal). - Public Art Funding: Councilmember Larsdorf raised the possibility of temporarily pausing public art projects funded by bonds. City Attorney indicated council could choose not to allocate bond funds for art, but noted that bond proceeds are restricted to capital purposes. The mayor suggested deferring that discussion to a future work session. - Employee Pay: Several council members expressed support for including pay-for-performance to retain and support city employees. Key Outcomes - Council gave staff direction to prepare a revised budget incorporating the restoration of services and positions from Budget Response 21, plus mid-year pay-for-performance for general employees, with the corresponding tax rate increase. - The revised budget will be presented to council and the public, and a summary will be provided to council members for their upcoming community budget meetings. - Next steps: Budget follow-up at the regular work session on August 25; final community budget meeting on September 3; public hearing on September 1 at 2 p.m.; adoption of the tax rate and budget scheduled for September 15.

This document summarizes the City of Fort Worth's public bid opening held on Thursday, August 20, 2026. The meeting consisted of the reading of bids submitted for several city contracts. No questions were accepted during the session. The following bids were presented: RFP 26-0244: Small Diameter Sewer Cleaning - Pro Pipe Services LLC - BCAC Underground - Acme Utility Inspection Services Inc. - Ace Pipe Cleaning Inc. - Duke's Root Control Inc. (No bid amounts were stated for this RFP in the transcription.) RFP 26-0245: Wastewater Siphon Cleaning - Greenville Enterprises LLC - Pro Pipe Services LLC - Duke's Root Control Inc. - BCAC Underground - Ace Pipe Cleaning Inc. (No bid amounts were stated for this RFP.) RFP 260258: Kennelled Doors and Repair - Auto Auto Environment - David Tahung LTD - Court LLC - Cajero LLC (No bid amounts were stated.) RFP 260256: Public Works Construction Project No. 103498 – Water and Sanitary Sewer Replacement Contract 2021 WSM Part One - Jackson Construction – $1,237,059.27 - Western Municipal Construction of Texas LLC – $235,929.07 - William J. Schultz Inc., DBA Circle C Construction Company – $115,851.17 - Woody Contractors Inc. – $89,216.50 Key Outcomes - The bids were publicly opened and read. No decisions or awards were made during this session; subsequent evaluation by the city will determine contract awards. - The meeting concluded with a thank-you to participants.