Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2026-127 affirming the appointment of a shared Board Member with the City of Plano to serve on the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Authority (DART) Board of Directors; and take appropriate action.
Body
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch is a member city of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), the regional public transportation authority serving Farmers Branch and other communities throughout the Dallas area. As a member city, Farmers Branch contributes a one-cent local sales tax to support DART’s regional transit system and receives access to transit services and infrastructure, including light rail, bus service, and connections to the broader regional transportation network. The City’s relationship with DART plays an important role in mobility, economic development, and redevelopment efforts, particularly around transit-oriented areas such as the Station Area. Because DART policies regarding governance, funding, service levels, and member-city authority can directly affect Farmers Branch residents, businesses, and future development, the City maintains an active interest in decisions affecting DART and its member communities.
Chapter 452 of the Texas Transportation Code provides for appointing a board member to DART. The City of Farmers Branch shares an appointment with the City of Plano and, in 2024, reelected M. Nathan Barbera for a two-year term, expiring on June 30, 2026.
Mr. Barbera agreed to stay on temporarily until the search for a new President and CEO was completed. Now that the search is complete, Mr. Barbera is resigning from his position, and the City is considering appointing Richard Grady as the representative for the joint seat with the City of Plano on the Dart Board of Directors.
DISCUSSION:
The City Council will consider appointing Mr. Richard Grady to the joint seat with the City of Plano on the Dart Board of Directors, effective September 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-127 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-127, with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution No. 2026-127