Title
Discuss and provide direction to staff on the reactivation of the Sister City Program.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Councilmember Elizabeth Villafranca
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch maintains a longstanding international partnership through its Sister City Program, which serves as a platform for cultural exchange, educational enrichment, and civic diplomacy. The City currently holds formal Sister City relationships with Bassetlaw District, United Kingdom (established in 1980) and Garbsen, Germany (established in 1990), as well as a Friendship City relationship with Schönebeck (Elbe), Germany (established in 1995).
On October 21, 2025, Council directed staff to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of the potential for future Sister City expansion and to return with findings and recommendations.
On December 9, 2025, staff presented the requested cost-benefit analysis and a proposed strategic framework for the future of the Sister City Program. Following Council discussion, staff were directed to reach out and engage with the existing Sister City partners to explore the potential for reactivating relationships, with an emphasis on identifying meaningful cultural and economic benefits.
In response to this direction, staff initiated outreach to the City’s existing Sister City partners. Staff has received a response from Bassetlaw District, United Kingdom, expressing interest in reengaging in the program, particularly in areas related to business, commerce, and cultural exchange. Bassetlaw has indicated that additional communication will follow after further discussion with its local government officials. As of the date of this report, no response has been received from Garbsen, Germany.
DISCUSSION:
This agenda item provides the City Council with an update on staff’s implementation of prior Council direction related to the Sister City Program. Staff will discuss the estimated budgetary considerations for maintaining existing Sister City relationships, the outreach efforts undertaken to reengage current partners, and the preliminary feedback received to date.
Additionally, staff will outline potential approaches to advancing the program that balance cultural engagement with opportunities for economic and business development, consistent with the Council’s stated interests. The discussion will also include proposed next steps for the Sister City Program, including continued partner engagement, evaluation of program outcomes, and considerations for any further Council direction. Council will decide the best course of action to take for reactivating the existing sister cities for return on investment through cultural or business development activities.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
FISCAL IMPACT:
$20,000 every 5 years. (Based on the existing approved budget for the Sister City program).
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTIONS:
1. I move to approve the Sister City Program as presented.
2. I move to approve the Sister City Program with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Presentation