FY2027 Budget Public Meeting - August 24, 2026

The City of Fort Worth held a public meeting on August 24, 2026, to discuss the proposed FY2027 budget. The meeting focused heavily on the challenges posed by changes in property tax appraisals by the Tarrant Appraisal District, which have resulted in a significant revenue shortfall impacting the general fund. The city manager and budget staff presented a balanced budget proposal that includes a recommended 3.2 cent increase in the property tax rate to address a $37 million budget gap, with potential adjustments to 3.56 cents to restore some service-level cuts in parks, libraries, and code enforcement. The general fund budget totals approximately $1.15 billion, with public safety (police, fire, EMS) comprising the largest share and contractual pay raises driving much of the expenditure growth. The city also discussed maintaining capital improvement funding through pay-as-you-go (PAYGO) methods and managing enterprise and special revenue funds, including water and solid waste. Public input was encouraged, and the council is scheduled to vote on the budget and tax rate on September 15, 2026. Several questions from residents addressed concerns about tax incentives for businesses, infrastructure spending, and service levels, with city officials providing detailed explanations of budget priorities and constraints.