Mid City Times

The Fort Worth City Council unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget on Tuesday. At the request of the Mayor and Council, the FY2025 tax rate remains below the no-new-revenue rate and is flat at 67.25 cents per $100 assessed valuation, providing tax relief to residents while still funding essential city services.

The total General Fund is $1.057 billion, a 4.3% increase from FY24. The new fiscal year begins on October 1. The General Fund budget will continue to support infrastructure improvements, public safety enhancements, and community development without an increase in property taxes.

The full $2.79 billion FY25 budget reflects the city's commitment to responsible growth as Fort Worth prepares for a population that could soon surpass one million people. The budget increases street maintenance while maintaining city service levels in other departments.

Key Budget Highlights:

Community Safety - The budget includes $3.5 million to support the startup of a new ambulance service in 2025, as well as funds to expand police services, including new bike patrols in areas like the heavily visited Stockyards and Magnolia Avenue.

Community Investment - There is a continued focus on revitalizing Fort Worth’s historic neighborhoods and increased investment in assisting small businesses in partnership with local chambers of commerce. A High Impact Pilot program to reduce homelessness is also funded for a full year of continued services.

Infrastructure - A major focus is addressing the city’s streets with an additional $10.4 million allocated for repairs. This is part of a broader effort to maintain streets, save on future reconstruction costs, and address community concerns about road conditions.

Debt Obligations: The city will meet its debt service obligations of $187.9 million while managing growth and inflationary pressures. The proposed tax rate also allows Fort Worth to continue making long-term investments without burdening taxpayers.

Fees: Water rates will increase by 3.3% and wastewater rates by 2.3%. The fee ordinance, including Stormwater rates and Development Services fees, will be considered on September 24.

The FY25 budget’s theme this year is “Focusing on Foundations,” aiming for the city to continue providing daily services and programs utilized by residents.

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