Fort Worth residents can weigh in on the city’s proposed $3.09 billion operating budget during a series of public meetings beginning this week, as officials grapple with population growth and evolving property tax challenges.
The recommended FY2026 budget represents a 10.93% increase over the FY2025 adopted budget, adding roughly $304 million in spending while attempting to balance service demands with fiscal restraint.
City Manager Jay Chapa outlined several cost-saving measures, including 1% departmental budget cuts and strategic fee increases. Despite the reductions, the budget preserves funding for police, fire, and emergency medical services while adding resources for housing repairs and animal shelters.
The spending plan maintains the city’s pay-as-you-go approach for infrastructure projects, avoiding additional debt while directing more funds toward street and park maintenance.
Ten district-specific budget meetings are scheduled through September 15, with the first set for August 21 at Truett Wilson Middle School in Haslet. Residents unable to attend can submit questions online or watch meetings via Fort Worth TV.
Aug. 21, 6 p.m. District 10 Budget Meeting, Truett Wilson Middle School, 14250 Sendera Ranch Blvd., Haslet, 76052
Aug. 25, 6 p.m. District 7 Budget Meeting, Boswell High School, 5805 W. Bailey Boswell Road, 76179
Aug. 27, 6 p.m. District 6 Budget Meeting, Southwest High School, 4100 Altamesa Blvd., 76133
Sept. 3, 6 p.m. District 3 Budget Meeting, LVT Rise Community Center, 8201 Calmont Ave., 76116
Sept. 6, 10 a.m. District 4 Budget Meeting, Basswood Elementary School, 3100 Clay Mountain Trail, 76137
Sept. 6, 2 p.m. District 11 Budget Meeting, Eugene McCray Community Center, 4932 Wilbarger St., 76119
Sept. 8, 6 p.m. District 9 Budget Meeting, University Christian Church, 2720 S. University Drive, 76109
Sept. 10, 6 p.m. District 5 Budget Meeting, East Regional Library, 6301 Bridge St., 76112
Sept. 11, 6 p.m. District 2 Budget Meeting, Northside Community Center, 1100 N.W. 18th St., 76164
Sept. 15, 6 p.m. District 8 Budget Meeting, McDonald YMCA, 2701 Moresby St., 76105
The budget aligns with City Council priorities, including economic development, community investment, public safety, infrastructure, and managed growth. Public hearings on the tax rate and budget are scheduled for September 16.
Following the hearings, the City Council will vote on adopting the tax rate, operating budget, five-year capital improvement plan, and fee ordinance. The new fiscal year begins on October 1.