FY 2027 Budget Work Session Meeting | June 16, 2026

The City of Fort Worth held a FY 2027 Budget Work Session on June 16, 2026, focusing extensively on budget challenges and proposed rate and fee adjustments across multiple city departments. Key procurement-related discussions included proposed increases in environmental protection fees (11% increase), solid waste service rates (ranging from 15% to 20% increases depending on cart size), and water and sewer rates (approximately 3.6% and 2.85% increases respectively) to address operational costs, capital improvements, and long-term infrastructure needs. The session also covered stormwater utility fee adjustments and the need for additional staffing to improve inspection capacity. Presenters emphasized the importance of balancing the budget gap, which remained around $50 million, through a combination of rate increases and service level adjustments. The council discussed the impact of these increases on residents and businesses, including large ratepayers like Fort Worth ISD, and highlighted ongoing efforts to engage the public through a budget priorities survey. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were detailed, but capital improvement projects, such as water infrastructure upgrades and landfill renewable natural gas initiatives, were noted. The meeting concluded with recognition of the complexity of the budget and the need for continued public input and council deliberation before final decisions.