Strategic Planning and Priorities for FY 2026-27 Workshop for June 30, 2026

The City of Duncanville held a Strategic Planning and Priorities Workshop on June 30, 2026, focusing extensively on the FY 2026-27 budget and capital improvement projects. Key procurement-related discussions included the strategic use of hotel occupancy tax (HOT) funds, with a presentation by a Texas Hotel and Lodging Association representative outlining legal requirements and permissible uses of HOT revenue. The city plans to allocate approximately $171,000 to advertising and promotion to meet statutory requirements and discussed potential uses of HOT funds for arts, historical restoration, and maintenance projects. The workshop also reviewed the economic development corporation's fund balance and budget strategies, highlighting a forecasted $8 million fund balance and plans for strategic drawdowns to support capital projects and incentives. Capital improvement projects (CIP) were prioritized using a data-driven scoring system, covering streets, alleys, utilities, facilities, and parks, with several grant-funded projects totaling about $3.9 million. The council discussed funding challenges, including the need for phased project implementation and the importance of long-term strategic planning. Operational budget considerations included police and fire department staffing and equipment needs, with proposals to freeze some positions to fund critical supervisory roles. Revenue enhancement ideas were presented, such as increasing alarm permit fees, implementing fire department billing for certain emergency responses, and exploring leasing park land for private sports facilities through an RFP process. The council emphasized the need for careful review and prioritization of projects before finalizing the budget, with a planned all-day budget workshop on August 6, 2026. Overall, the meeting addressed procurement, budgeting, and strategic planning to support city infrastructure, public safety, and economic development initiatives.