CITY COUNCIL

Summary

This item enacts budget adjustments to finalize Fiscal Year 2025, facilitate the rollover into Fiscal Year 2026, and amend operating and capital improvement budgets.

Key Adjustments and Allocations:

• FY2025 General Fund Reallocations: Approximately $4.75 million is reallocated to balance the General Fund budget. This includes increases for the City Auditor ($4,310), Code Compliance ($714,483), Police ($2,276,145), Fire ($1,622,251), Municipal Courts ($18,308), and Parks ($111,485), with a corresponding decrease in the Non-Departmental budget.
• Fund Balance Adjustments: Several funds are adjusted to balance their budgets, including increases in the Group Health Insurance Fund (+$2,164,855) and decreases in Culture and Tourism (-$4,785,650.66), Municipal Parking (-$18,628), and Municipal Airport (-$1,310,360).
• Committed and Assigned Fund Balance:
  • $524,555 is designated as committed FY2025 fund balance for rollover into FY2026 for the City Auditor and Property Management.
  • $10,032,192 is released from a previous commitment for sales tax repayment, with $2,999,916 re-committed for the same purpose.
  • $15,000,000 is committed for the Juneteenth museum.
  • $32,251,553 is assigned from FY24 and FY25 savings for capital shortfalls, including $2,000,000 for City Hall renovations, $3,100,000 for the Group Health Insurance Fund, $3,000,000 for NET Force/FIFA/Hazel Harvey Peace initiatives, and $1,000,000 for library/community art.
• FY2026 Budget Increases: The General Fund budget increases by $9,624,550 to accommodate rollovers, City Hall renovations ($2,000,000), Group Health Insurance Fund deficit reduction ($3,100,000), and NET Force/FIFA/Hazel Harvey Peace initiatives ($3,000,000), and library/community art ($1,000,000).
• Group Health Insurance Fund Deficit: Multiple funds are contributing a total of $3,561,848 to shore up the deficit in the Group Health Insurance Fund, with an additional $3,100,000 from the General Fund, bringing the total to $6,661,848.
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Amendment: The FY2026-2031 CIP is amended to include the $2,000,000 City Hall renovation project.

Citizen Impact

This item represents the final financial closing for Fiscal Year 2025 and sets up the budget for Fiscal Year 2026. While it involves significant fund reallocations and transfers, including addressing a deficit in the Group Health Insurance Fund, it primarily adjusts internal city finances to balance accounts and prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. No direct tax increases are proposed as part of these adjustments.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance amends Chapter 19 of the Fort Worth City Code, specifically Section 19-15 concerning "Definitions and Policies" for the Public Library. The amendments update the definitions of "Library Materials," "Library Services," and "Nonresident Student." "Library Materials" will now explicitly include digital items alongside physical ones. "Library Services" will be broadened to encompass a wider range of resources, computer access, and sponsored programs. Crucially, the definition of "Nonresident Student" is updated to include homeschooled students, alongside those enrolled in formally recognized or accredited educational organizations in Pre-K through 12th grade. The ordinance is intended to modernize definitions to reflect current library offerings and promote greater access to library services for all students.

Citizen Impact

This change will expand access to free library cards and resources for homeschooled students, treating them similarly to students in traditional educational settings. It also clarifies that digital resources are considered "library materials," reflecting current library services.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is considering a resolution to authorize an Advance Funding Agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for the Conductor Road Trail project. This agreement involves a total project cost of up to $1,897,065.00. Funding will be sourced from federal participation (up to $1,802,000.00), state participation (up to $4,965.00), and local participation (up to $90,100.00). An additional $360,400.00 local match will be satisfied using Transportation Development Credits. The project aims to construct a trail along Conductor Road from Trinity Boulevard to the Trinity Lakes Train Station. The resolution also includes adopting appropriation ordinances and amending the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program.

Citizen Impact

This item authorizes funding for the Conductor Road Trail project, which will create a new trail connecting Trinity Boulevard to the Trinity Lakes Train Station. Residents can expect improved recreational and transportation infrastructure in the area.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is considering an amendment to an Advance Funding Agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) for the CentrePort Trail Phase II Project. This amendment, No. 1, will increase the total contract amount from $5,644,923.00 to $15,885,596.00. The City's participation will increase to $1,502,925.00, with an additional $1,667,075.00 contributed through Transportation Development Credits. The increased funding is necessary due to unforeseen site conditions and construction inflation. An associated ordinance will appropriate these additional funds. The project is identified as City Project No. 102130.

Citizen Impact

This action increases the total funding for the CentrePort Trail Phase II Project, which will likely lead to construction delays or increased costs if not adequately funded. Residents may experience temporary disruptions related to trail construction.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize the application for and acceptance of grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the Whole Air Monitoring BioWatch Program. This grant, if awarded, would provide up to $253,000.00 for field operations and sample collection activities related to early detection of bioterrorism attacks. The funding period is for six months, from February 1, 2026, to July 31, 2026. The grant will cover expenses including salary and fringe benefits for five authorized positions in the Environmental Services Department, indirect costs at a 10% rate, and capital equipment like vehicle replacement. The city will be reimbursed for expenses incurred. This represents a shift from previous years where funding was administered through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ); Fort Worth will now apply directly to DHS. An appropriation ordinance is also to be adopted to reflect the potential increase in receipts and appropriations.

Citizen Impact

This grant will fund critical air monitoring for early detection of bioterrorism threats within Fort Worth and Tarrant County. While there is no direct cost to residents, the program relies on grant funding, and if it is not awarded, alternative funding sources would need to be identified to maintain these public safety operations.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item seeks to ratify the application for, and authorize the acceptance of, the Fiscal Year 2027 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Grant from the Office of the Texas Governor, Criminal Justice Division. If awarded, the grant will provide up to $180,000.00 to fund services and assistance for victims of crime. Specifically, it will continue to fund salary and fringe benefits for two positions within the Fort Worth Police Department's Victim Assistance Unit: one Victim Assistance Specialist and one High-Risk Family Violence Specialist. The grant period is from 10/01/2026 to 09/30/2027. The city is required to provide a 20% match, totaling $36,000.00, which will be funded through the Fiscal Year 2027 Crime Prevention Control District budget. The recommendation includes adopting a resolution to make required assurances, authorizing the execution of the grant agreement, and adopting appropriation ordinances to increase estimated receipts and appropriations.

Citizen Impact

This grant will continue funding critical support services for victims of crime, including family violence, through the Fort Worth Police Department's Victim Assistance Unit. These services aim to reduce trauma and repeat victimization.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes the city to apply for and accept an Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for up to $1,000,000.00. These funds are designated for the design phase of the Taxiway Papa Fence and Road Relocation Project at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport. The city will also authorize the use of land credits to cover its matching portion, estimated at $111,112.00, bringing the total project amount to $1,111,112.00. An appropriation ordinance will be adopted to allocate these funds.

Citizen Impact

This action supports infrastructure improvements at the Alliance Airport, which could indirectly affect local businesses and employment. No direct cost to residents is indicated, as the project is funded by a federal grant and land credits.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance authorizes the City of Fort Worth to apply for and accept up to $250,000.00 from the Office of the Texas Governor, Criminal Justice Division, for the Fiscal Year 2027 Peace Officers Mental Health Grant. If awarded, these funds will be appropriated to the Grants Operating State Fund to support this initiative. The ordinance includes standard clauses for severability, cumulative effect, and repealing conflicting ordinances, with an effective date upon adoption.

Citizen Impact

This grant aims to improve mental health resources for peace officers, potentially leading to better support for law enforcement personnel and indirectly benefiting community safety and well-being.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance authorizes the City of Fort Worth to apply for and accept an Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for up to $400,000.00. This grant will fund a Pavement Management Report at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport. The city will also authorize the use of land credits for its matching portion, up to $44,445.00, bringing the total project amount to $444,445.00. The ordinance also adopts an appropriation ordinance to reflect these funds and includes standard clauses for severability, cumulative effect, and an effective date upon adoption. This is for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget.

Citizen Impact

This action will fund a necessary pavement management report for the Alliance Airport, ensuring its continued safe and efficient operation. There is no direct cost to residents as the funding is primarily federal grant money and city land credits.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance authorizes the City of Fort Worth to apply for and accept an Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The grant, if awarded, will be up to $3,000,000.00 and will fund joint reseal and pavement improvements at Perot Field Fort Worth Alliance Airport. The city will also authorize the use of land credits for its matching portion, up to $333,334.00, bringing the total project cost to $3,333,334.00. The ordinance also adopts an appropriation ordinance to reflect these funds and includes standard clauses regarding severability, cumulative effect, and an effective date upon adoption.

Citizen Impact

This action will lead to improvements at the Fort Worth Alliance Airport, potentially enhancing its operational efficiency and safety. Residents may indirectly benefit from improved airport infrastructure, which supports economic activity and transportation.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is considering authorizing an application for, and acceptance of, the Paul Coverdell Forensic Sciences Improvement Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. If awarded, the grant would provide up to $220,000.00 to purchase forensic firearm equipment. The city would also authorize the execution of a grant agreement with the Office of the Texas Governor, Public Safety Office, adopt a related resolution, and adopt an appropriation ordinance to fund the purchase. The appropriation ordinance specifically increases estimated receipts and appropriations in the Grants Operating Federal Fund for this purpose, and it is effective upon adoption.

Citizen Impact

This grant will fund the purchase of forensic firearm equipment, which can aid in public safety investigations. Approval of the grant and appropriation ordinance allows the city to pursue this funding for essential equipment.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to ratify an application for and authorize the acceptance of the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) Commercial Motor Vehicle Grant for Fiscal Year 2027, potentially up to $122,000.00. This grant aims to reduce commercial vehicle crashes, injuries, and fatalities by funding police overtime for enforcement of traffic laws such as speed, seatbelts, and impaired driving. The city must provide a match of up to $25,000.00, which will be transferred from the Crime Control Prevention District Fund. An appropriation ordinance will be adopted to reflect these funds, and the city will authorize the execution of the grant agreement if awarded. The grant covers an estimated 900 enforcement hours and 45 administrative hours, with indirect costs of 3.51%.

Citizen Impact

This grant will fund increased police enforcement focused on commercial vehicle safety, potentially leading to safer roads for all drivers by targeting violations like speeding and impaired driving. The city's match requirement will be covered by existing funds from the Crime Control Prevention District.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize the acceptance of $50,000.00 in donations to the Special Donations LTD Fund. These funds are specifically designated to support the Animal Transportation Program within the Code Compliance Department. An appropriation ordinance will be adopted to increase estimated receipts and appropriations in the Special Donations LTD Fund by this amount, sourced from "Contributions from Others." This funding is crucial to sustain the Animal Transportation Program, which facilitates the transport of animals to transfer partners and communities with adoptable pet demand, thereby reducing overcrowding and stress on animals at the Fort Worth Animal Care and Control (FWACC) facilities. The current funding for this program is set to expire on January 31, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This action allows for the continued operation of the Animal Transportation Program, which helps reduce shelter overcrowding and improve animal welfare by transporting animals to adoption partners. This ensures more animals have a better chance at finding homes.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize non-exclusive purchase agreements with Buyers Barricades, Inc. and Westworth Holdings, LLC for the rental and purchase of traffic control equipment. This equipment, including barricades, signs, and cones, will be used by various city departments such as Water, Transportation & Public Works, Police, and Parks & Recreation to support safe work zones and roadway operations throughout Fort Worth.

The initial term of the agreements has a combined annual amount of up to $1,510,000.00. The agreements also include four, one-year renewal options with escalating annual amounts: $1,811,849.00 for the first renewal, $2,174,219.00 for the second, $2,609,063.00 for the third, and $3,130,876.00 for the fourth renewal. These increases are attributed to market volatility and supply chain disruptions, with a recommended 20% increase for each renewal term.

Two vendors responded to the Request for Proposals (RFP) 26-0021, and an evaluation panel recommended these two companies based on a best-value criteria, considering factors like delivery time, experience, compliance with standards, pricing, and small business participation. Westworth Holdings, LLC committed to the 30 percent small business goal.

Citizen Impact

This agreement ensures city departments have necessary traffic control equipment for roadway and work zone safety. While the total potential cost escalates over the renewal terms, the actual spending will be based on departmental needs and available budget, with no direct tax increase proposed.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize an agreement with Winston Electric, Inc., dba Acme Electric Company for industrial electrical services for the Water Department. The agreement has an initial term of one year with a maximum annual amount of $2,000,000.00. It also includes four one-year renewal options for the same amount. The Water Department requires these services at various facilities. A Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued, and three responses were received. An evaluation panel reviewed the proposals based on criteria including small business participation, qualifications, approach, availability, staffing, and cost. Winston Electric, Inc. was determined to offer the best value. The company has committed to utilizing certified small business subcontractors for at least 30% of the contract value.

Citizen Impact

This agreement ensures the continued operation and maintenance of the city's water and wastewater facilities. Residents will not see a direct increase in costs as the funding is budgeted within the Water & Sewer Fund.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is considering an agreement with Street Soccer USA (SSUSA), a non-profit organization, to design, construct, and maintain a street soccer field in Hillside Park. This project will transform the existing tennis courts into a synthetic turf field with LED lights and a scoreboard. SSUSA will fund and manage the entire construction at no cost to the city, with the city responsible for site preparation. The agreement includes a 10-year initial term with two 5-year renewal options. SSUSA will receive waived field reservation fees for its programming, which aims to provide soccer opportunities for underserved youth. Upon completion, the city will own the field and assets. SSUSA will also be responsible for up to $10,000 annually in maintenance, with the Park & Recreation Department covering additional costs.

Citizen Impact

Residents will benefit from a new street soccer field in Hillside Park, offering recreational opportunities for youth through Street Soccer USA's programs. Fee waivers for the developer mean no direct cost to taxpayers for the field's construction and initial maintenance.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is considering the acquisition of approximately 2.4199 acres of land located at 590 East Rendon Crowley Road from the Ronald J Price Revocable Trust. The purchase price is $1,600,000.00, with an additional estimated $30,000.00 for closing costs. This acquisition is part of the Fort Worth Spinks Land Acquisition Project (City Project No. 105791) and is intended to support the planned future runway extension at Spinks Airport, aligning with the FY2024 Master Plan. The city will adopt an appropriation ordinance to increase estimated receipts and appropriations in the Aviation Gas Lease Capital Projects Fund by $1,463,894.00, funded by available Interest Earnings. The Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program will also be amended to reflect this acquisition. The property is located in Council District 8.

Citizen Impact

This land acquisition is for the expansion of Spinks Airport, which is part of a larger plan to accommodate future aviation demand and support regional economic growth. Residents will not directly pay for this acquisition as it is funded through existing airport capital project funds and interest earnings.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes an amendment to the existing contract with CentralSquare Technologies, LLC, to increase the annual contract amount by $889,222.64, bringing the total revised annual contract amount to $2,252,740.00. This increase is for the purchase of additional products and services related to the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), Mobile, and Records Management Systems for the Information Technology Solutions Department. Additionally, the amendment includes four one-year renewal options, each with a 5% annual increase. The contract has a history of amendments and renewals dating back to 2007, with CentralSquare Technologies becoming the contractor in 2021 due to a merger. The new services include CAD Advisor remote managed services for proactive system administration and health monitoring, and SQL Server AlwaysON for high availability and disaster recovery of public safety databases. Funding is available in the Info Technology Systems Fund.

Citizen Impact

This contract amendment will enhance the reliability and performance of critical public safety systems like 911 dispatch and police records management, potentially leading to faster response times and more efficient emergency services.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is set to authorize a contract with 2R Construction Services Inc. for $8,179,908.65 to perform combined street paving, stormwater improvements, and water/sanitary sewer main replacements. This project, designated as the 2022 Bond Year 3 – Contract 13, will affect approximately 4.19 lane miles across various streets in Council Districts 5 and 11. The contract was awarded based on Alternate A (asphalt paving) due to a significant cost difference compared to concrete paving. The action also includes adopting appropriation ordinances to transfer funds between various capital project funds to cover the project's costs and amends the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program. Key streets included are North Hampshire Boulevard, Hightower Street, Halbert Street, Kipling Street, Milam Street, Proctor Street, and Ruth Street, along with associated easements. The project aims to replace deteriorated water mains, sanitary sewer mains, and storm drains, followed by asphalt paving rehabilitation.

Citizen Impact

Residents in Districts 5 and 11 can expect improved street conditions, water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure as this contract addresses aging utilities and road surfaces. Construction activities will occur on specific streets, potentially causing temporary disruptions.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) between the City of Fort Worth and the City of Kennedale concerning the use and improvement of Dick Price Road. Fort Worth needs to re-route truck traffic from the Southeast Landfill to Dick Price Road while Salt Road is under repair. Kennedale has agreed to waive its permit, fee, and bonding requirements for this truck traffic during the repair period. Fort Worth will be responsible for maintaining Dick Price Road between Shady Lane and the asphalt/concrete transition, collecting trash and debris along the route, and will also fund the reconstruction of Dick Price Road from the railroad tracks to Averett Road, estimated at $900,000.00, as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 Paygo program. Most of these improvements fall within Fort Worth's city limits.

Citizen Impact

Residents may experience increased truck traffic on Dick Price Road during the Salt Road repairs. Fort Worth will be responsible for $900,000.00 in improvements to Dick Price Road, which will enhance its condition for all users.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is set to authorize a contract with William J. Schultz, Inc. dba Circle C Construction Company for $9,476,730.00 to undertake the Water and Sanitary Sewer Replacement Contract 2020 WSM-I Project. This project involves replacing approximately 15,910 linear feet of cast iron water mains and 3,126 linear feet of deteriorated sanitary sewer mains across several streets, including Mohawk Avenue, Penrose Avenue, and others listed in the documentation. Additionally, asphalt pavement rehabilitation will be performed on these roadways. The council will also adopt an appropriation ordinance to increase estimated receipts and appropriations in the Water and Sewer Capital Projects Fund by $10,305,740.00, funded by available PayGo residuals, to cover the project costs and contribute to the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program. The project is located in Council District 3 and Circle C Construction Company met the city's small business goals.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the affected areas, primarily within Council District 3, will experience water and sewer infrastructure upgrades which may involve temporary disruptions during construction. The project aims to improve the reliability and capacity of essential utility services.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes the City of Fort Worth to execute an aircraft parking license agreement with Omni Air International, LLC for the use of two additional aircraft parking spaces at the Alliance Fort Worth Maintenance Facility, located at 2008 Eagle Parkway, Fort Worth, Texas, 76177. The license will be on a month-to-month basis, terminable by either party with 30 days' written notice. The monthly rent for these two spaces will be $4,500.00 ($2,250.00 per aircraft). Omni Air International may also seek approval for intermittent parking of an additional aircraft at a daily rate of $150.00. No services or utilities are included in this license. The parking rate is consistent with other city-owned airport properties. This property is located within Council District 10.

Citizen Impact

This agreement involves a business operating at the Alliance Fort Worth Maintenance Facility and does not directly impact residents' daily lives or services. The revenue generated from this license will be deposited into the Alliance Maintenance Facility Fund.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is authorizing the execution of a contract with Western Municipal Construction of Texas, LLC for the Northside IV Elevated Storage Tank – 30 inch Water Transmission Main Extension project. The contract amount is $3,378,260.00. This project involves constructing a 30-inch water main to supply the new Northside IV Elevated Storage Tank, which will improve water capacity and reliability in the Northside IV service area. The project is located in Council District 10 and Wise County. Additionally, the council will adopt a resolution expressing intent to reimburse expenditures with future debt proceeds and an appropriation ordinance to adjust funds for the project's contribution to the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program. The total project funding, including management, testing, inspection, and contingencies, is $4,068,018.00.

Citizen Impact

This contract award will fund the construction of a new 30-inch water transmission main, improving water delivery and reliability for residents in the Northside IV service area. The project is funded through existing water and sewer funds and future debt, with no immediate tax increase for residents.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize contracts with 4DaBrothers, Inc. and Fort Worth Connect for the Fiscal Year 2026 Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) Emerging Partners Program. The combined total amount for these contracts is up to $314,179.00. These funds will support crime prevention programming aimed at benefiting Fort Worth residents.

4DaBrothers, Inc. will receive $19,179.00 for a Development Grant to enhance their capacity to serve young men aged 17-24, focusing on sustainable programs, outreach, and resource expansion. This program will serve participants in Council Districts 5, 8, and 11, with a contract term from January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2028.

Fort Worth Connect will receive $295,000.00 for a Program Grant to implement their "LCYC Rodeo Team" program. This initiative aims to foster connections among youth aged 10-17 across the city, with a specific focus on uniting youths from the Southside and Southeast neighborhoods, areas known for gang violence. The program will introduce youth to rodeo opportunities and cultivate positive relationships with law enforcement. It will serve participants in all Council Districts, with a contract term from January 1, 2026, to February 28, 2029.

Citizen Impact

This initiative will fund programs designed to reduce crime and foster positive youth development in specific neighborhoods and across the city. Residents, particularly young people in targeted areas, will benefit from expanded crime prevention services and opportunities.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes an amendment to an engineering agreement with Freese and Nichols, Inc. for the 3rd Main to West Fork Trunk Mains project, specifically focusing on bank stabilization at the Village Creek Water Reclamation Facility. Amendment No. 7 adds $357,780.00 to the contract, bringing the total revised contract amount to $2,901,116.00. This amendment covers design for bank stabilization and aerial crossing replacements for two sewer mains (M-33BA and M-280A) that cross a tributary of the West Fork Trinity River, crucial to prevent collapse. It also includes compensation for emergency design at two break locations on another sewer main (M-244). Additionally, the council will adopt an appropriation ordinance to shift $417,780.00 within the Water & Sewer Revenue Bonds Series 2025 Fund to support this project as part of the Fiscal Years 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program.

Citizen Impact

This action ensures the continued integrity and functionality of critical water infrastructure, specifically sewer mains crossing a river tributary. Preventing collapse of these mains is essential for maintaining wastewater treatment services and protecting the environment.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize the application for and acceptance of the Sexual Assault Evidence Testing Grant Program from the Office of the Texas Governor, Public Safety Office, for Fiscal Year 2027. If awarded, the grant would provide up to $400,000.00 for contractual services to screen and process sexual assault evidence collection kits (SAKs). This funding is crucial for meeting Texas House Bill 8 requirements, which mandate the processing of SAKs within 90 days of a detective's request to the Crime Lab. The grant funds can be used for overtime or temporary/contract workers, contractual services for processing, supplies, equipment, and salaries for workers involved in SAK screening and processing. No matching funds are required, and the funding is reimbursable. The grant will serve all council districts.

Citizen Impact

This grant will help ensure that sexual assault evidence collection kits are processed more quickly, potentially aiding in the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases. Faster processing of evidence can lead to more timely justice for victims.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City Council is asked to authorize the application for, and acceptance of, the Fiscal Year 2027 Criminal Justice Assistance Grant Program from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, passed through the Office of the Texas Governor, Public Safety Office. If awarded, the grant will provide up to $125,000.00 to replace workstations and cubicles for the Narcotics Unit. This initiative aims to improve administrative efficiency and update outdated equipment. The grant period is from October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027. The city is required to adopt a resolution authorizing the application and acceptance, and an appropriation ordinance to accept the funds. No matching funds are required, and the grant is reimbursable.

Citizen Impact

This grant will fund the replacement of workstations and cubicles for the Fort Worth Police Department's Narcotics Unit, aiming to improve their administrative efficiency. This is a reimbursement grant and does not require matching funds or a tax increase.

Confidence

high

Summary

This report lists new claims filed against the city between January 6, 2026, and January 21, 2026. These claims allege damages or injuries resulting from incidents involving city departments, including Police, Transportation and Public Works (TPW), Water, Fire Department, and Parks and Recreation. The claims are categorized as either Auto or General Liability and are currently under investigation by the Risk Management Division to determine liability based on the Texas Tort Claims Act. No specific financial estimates or liability decisions are presented in this report.

Citizen Impact

This report informs residents about potential claims filed against the city, which could eventually lead to financial settlements or judgments impacting city budgets. Residents are advised to direct any inquiries about these claims to the Risk Management Division.

Confidence

high

Summary

This resolution renames the Fort Worth Code Compliance’s “North Animal Campus” to “Henry’s Animal Campus”. Henry was the City of Fort Worth’s official K-9 Ambassador for over twelve years, passing away on November 26, 2025. He began his journey as a stray and was adopted by the City, serving as an ambassador at public events and community gatherings to advance animal welfare. Henry's service contributed to public trust, inspired donations, and aided in the construction of the North Animal Campus and a Medical Treatment Ward. The renaming honors his significant contributions and lasting impact on animal care in Fort Worth.

Citizen Impact

This change is primarily ceremonial, renaming a city facility to honor a beloved K-9 ambassador. It does not directly impact city services or resident costs.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance amends the Fort Worth City Code to add Section 23-23, establishing residency restrictions for "specified sex offenders." A specified sex offender is defined as someone required to register for an offense involving a victim who was a minor. The ordinance prohibits these individuals from establishing a permanent or temporary residence within 1,500 feet of "premises where children commonly gather." These premises include schools, day-care facilities, parks, playgrounds, public swimming pools, youth centers, community centers, or public libraries. The ordinance also makes it unlawful to knowingly rent property to such offenders if it falls within the restricted zone. It includes affirmative defenses for those who established residence before the ordinance's adoption, if the child-gathering premises opened after their residence was established, or if the offender is a minor. Violations are a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00 per day.

Citizen Impact

This ordinance restricts where certain registered sex offenders can live, aiming to increase child safety by creating 1,500-foot buffer zones around places children frequent. Residents may see changes in neighborhood demographics, and enforcement will be managed by the Fort Worth Police Department.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance proposes significant amendments to the City of Fort Worth's Zoning Ordinance to address the proliferation and over-concentration of certain commercial uses. Key changes include:

• Liquor or Package Stores: These will be removed as permitted uses in the "E" Neighborhood Commercial district and the "MU-1" Mixed Use form-based code district. They will remain permitted in more intensive commercial and industrial districts. A 1,000-foot separation requirement between new liquor stores will be established.
• Credit Access Businesses (Payday Lenders): These will be added as a new land use, permitted in more intensive commercial and industrial districts, and most form-based code districts. A 1,000-foot separation requirement between new credit access businesses will be established.
• Retail Smoke Shops: The definition will be amended to lower the sales threshold from 90% to 51% for tobacco and related products. A 1,000-foot separation requirement between new smoke shops will be implemented. The distance requirement from "sensitive uses" (schools, universities, hospitals) will increase from 300 to 500 feet, and the list of sensitive uses will expand to include public parks, places of worship, and daycare centers.
• Definitions: New definitions for "Bar," "Liquor or Package Stores," and "Credit Access Business" will be added, and definitions for "Retail Smoke Shop" and "Restaurant" will be amended.

The Zoning Commission recommended denial of this ordinance by a vote of 11-0.

Citizen Impact

This ordinance aims to reduce the concentration of liquor stores, payday lenders, and smoke shops in certain commercial areas and near sensitive locations like parks and daycares. Residents may see fewer of these businesses in neighborhood commercial districts, potentially improving neighborhood character, while also facing new distance restrictions for these uses citywide.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Fort Worth City Council is considering authorizing the City Attorney to join the City of Aledo in a lawsuit against the City of Willow Park. The lawsuit concerns illegal annexations by Willow Park that allegedly violate Texas annexation law (Chapter 43 of the Texas Local Government Code). Specifically, Willow Park is accused of attempting to expand its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) and annex land, including portions of Bankhead Highway and the Beall Property, which are already within the ETJs or city limits of Fort Worth and Aledo. The suit seeks a judicial declaration that these annexations are unlawful and void. Fort Worth's participation is recommended to protect its own territorial interests. The estimated filing fees are less than $2,500, to be funded from the Lawsuit Expenses account within the Risk Financing Fund.

Citizen Impact

This action aims to protect Fort Worth's existing extraterritorial jurisdiction from being unlawfully encroached upon by Willow Park. Residents and businesses within Fort Worth's current ETJ will not be subject to Willow Park's jurisdiction or potential future annexation without proper legal process.

Confidence

high