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 Sch?nebeck (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 ...
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