Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2026-045, reaffirming the City’s approval of an agreement with the Dallas County Election Department for joint election services for the May 2, 2026, election for an amount of $70,579; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Administrative Services Department
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch partners with the Dallas County Elections Department to administer general and special elections. Through this partnership, the County provides essential election services and resources, including voting equipment, election workers, ballot preparation and tabulation equipment, and required signage. By utilizing the County’s established election infrastructure, the City promotes transparency, achieves cost efficiencies, and ensures compliance with Texas Election Law and other applicable state regulations governing election administration.
On November 4, 2025, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3977 calling a special election to consider withdrawal from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), to be held on May 2, 2026.
On January 20, 2026, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3986 calling a general election for the offices of Mayor and District 2 Councilmember, also to be held on May 2, 2026.
The combined estimated cost to conduct both elections is $70,579. On February 24, 2026, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3994, cancelling the special election to consider withdrawal from DART. The City’s portion of the joint election agreement associated with the cancelled election will be refunded at the conclusion of the election cycle.
DISCUSSION:
Although the amount of the agreement for election services falls within the approval authority of the City Manager, the agreement requires reaffirmation by the City Council. Approval of Resolution No. 2026-045 will reaffirm the City’s approval of the agreement. Funds for the cancelled special election will be refunded to the City at the conclusion of the election cycle, for an amount to be determined by Dallas County.
The cost of the May 2026 joint election has increased compared to 2025. The primary cause of the increase is that the City of Dallas will not be participating in the May 2026 election. In late 2025, the City of Dallas approved a resolution moving its municipal elections from May to November. As a result, election administration costs are being distributed among fewer participating entities, increasing each entity’s proportionate share. Additional contributing factors include salary increases for election workers and an increase in polling locations.
Staff will be available for any questions the Council may have.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Budgeted amount of $70,579 approved in the Fiscal Year 2025-26 operating budget.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-045 as presented.
2. I move to approve Resolution No. 2026-045, with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Resolution No. 2026-045
2. Exhibit A - Election Services Contract
3. Cost Estimate
4. Ordinance No. 3977
5. Ordinance No. 3986
6. Ordinance No. 3994