Title
Discuss and consider the DART withdrawal election and consider approving Ordinance No. 3994 to repeal Ordinance No. 3977, canceling and rescinding the order of special election for withdrawal from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit System; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
City Council
BACKGROUND:
Public transportation has historically been regarded as a shared regional investment intended to advance mobility, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life. The City of Farmers Branch continues to recognize the importance of reliable transit access for residents, employees, businesses, and visitors, as well as the broader regional value of coordinated mobility systems. At the same time, municipalities participating in regional transit systems must ensure that public resources are deployed transparently, accountably, and cost-effectively, while remaining responsive to evolving community needs.
On November 4, 2025, the Farmers Branch City Council adopted Ordinance No. 3977 ordering a special election to be held within the City on May 2, 2026, to consider dissolution of the City's participation in the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, subject to the continued collection of sales taxes for the period required by applicable law.
At the request of DART, the City transmitted a formal letter dated December 17, 2025, identifying conditions the City considered necessary to support continued participation in the regional transit system. As of the date of this agenda item, DART representatives met with the City officials and are working to move the discussions forward, including the discussion on governance structure. However, discussions regarding service delivery and related matters remain ongoing. The City continues to collaborate with DART and partner member cities to address shared concerns and explore potential system improvements.
On May 2, 2026, voters in Farmers Branch, along with voters in Addison, Highlan...
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