Fort Worth voters face $845 million bond package, charter amendments, and special election on May 2

Residents of Fort Worth will head to the polls on May 2 to vote on a substantial $845 million bond package, nine proposed charter amendments, and a special election to fill the District 10 seat being vacated by Alan Blaylock. The bond package, aimed at improving city infrastructure and public services, is divided into six distinct propositions, reflecting priorities highlighted through citizen feedback and city staff analysis.

The largest portion of the bond, Proposition A, allocates $511 million for streets and other transportation infrastructure projects, accounting for over 60 percent of the total package. Proposition B designates $185 million, or roughly 22 percent, for parks, recreation, and open space improvements, demonstrating a focus on quality of life and community amenities. Proposition C proposes $14.5 million for public library enhancements, while Proposition D, Fort Worth’s first affordable housing bond, commits $10 million to create new homeownership and rental opportunities for households earning up to 120 percent of the area median income. Funds under Proposition D could be used for land acquisition, site preparation, home repair programs, and supporting infrastructure.

Proposition E earmarks $64 million for police, fire, and emergency communications facilities, strengthening public safety infrastructure across the city. Proposition F allocates $60 million toward improvements at city animal shelters, ensuring better care and services for pets and residents alike. Although the bond package extends the city’s financial obligations, state law requires the ballot to note “THIS IS A TAX INCREASE.” The city, however, anticipates that it can manage repayments without raising the current tax rate.

Fort Worth is facing financial challenges, including a projected budget shortfall and constrained revenues in Fiscal Year 2027, which has led to a temporary hiring freeze. Against this backdrop, voters will also consider nine proposed charter amendments addressing various aspects of city governance.

Proposition G would more than double the mayor’s salary from $29,000 to $60,000 and increase city council members’ pay from $25,000 to $50,000, reflecting a renewed push to align compensation with responsibilities. Propositions H and I deal with employee charges and hearing requirements, while Proposition J would allow the city council to adopt the budget at the same meeting as its public hearing, in accordance with state law.

Other amendments streamline administrative processes. Proposition K removes a redundant requirement for public service corporations to submit annual reports to the city. Proposition L allows city staff to grant privileges for using city streets without a separate ordinance. Proposition M permits reorganization of city departments without formal ordinances. Proposition N resolves a conflict with state law on the timing of special elections, and Proposition O allows expenses to be paid based on sufficient documentation rather than relying solely on purchase orders.

Fort Worth residents can participate in public meetings from March 25 to April 18 to learn more about the bond and charter proposals. Early voting runs from April 20 to 28, ahead of the May 2 election, when voters will have the opportunity to shape the city’s financial priorities and governance for years to come.