Title
Consider approving Ordinance No. 3977 ordering an election to be held in and throughout the City of Farmers Branch, Texas, on May 2, 2026, to dissolve the Dallas Area Rapid Transit System in the City of Farmers Branch, subject to the continued collection of sales taxes for the period required by law; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
City Council
BACKGROUND:
The City of Farmers Branch is committed to safe and reliable transportation options for its citizens. For years, the City has worked to hold the Dallas Area Rapid Transit System (DART) accountable for the hundreds of millions of dollars contributed to DART by the citizens of Farmers Branch. Farmers Branch has contributed in excess of $500 million to DART since 1984.
Over the years, the City has repeatedly requested updated transit services and has formally requested data demonstrating the return on its investment. An independent study by Ernst & Young (EY) Associates found that Farmers Branch contributed $24.3 million to DART in 2023, while DART spent only $20.8 million within the city. While the City of Farmers Branch has attempted to address these imbalances, DART has maintained that it requires every dollar received.
The amount of sales tax contributions, with a lack of return on investment, puts the city at a financial disadvantage, taking away from other needed public services, such as public safety and infrastructure.
DISCUSSION:
The Council will discuss whether to order an election for May 2, 2026, which would allow the residents of Farmers Branch to vote on whether DART should be dissolved within the city, subject to the continued collection of sales taxes as required by law.
Regardless of the outcome of the proposed election, the City of Farmers Branch will remain committed to providing accessible transportation for all residents who rely on the public transportation system.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Costs associated with the special election would be in conjunction with the budgeted costs associated with the May 2, 2026, general election, and would be determined by the number of participating entities.
DISTRICT:
Citywide
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
1. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3977 as presented.
2. I move to approve Ordinance No. 3977 with modifications.
3. I move to table the issue for further study or take no action.
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Ordinance No. 3977