Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

1 month ago

Farmers Branch council rescinds May withdrawal election from DART after months of negotiation Facing hours of public comment and fresh funding and governance concessions from DART, the Farmers Branch City Council voted unanimously to approve Ordinance No. 3994 and cancel the May withdrawal election, keeping the city in the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system while promising oversight and further negotiation.

Farmers Branch City Council unanimously rescinded a withdrawal election from DART, opting for crucial funding and governance concessions that promise $11.6 million over the next six years.

Learn more here!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #CommunityEngagement #CitizenPortal

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

1 month ago

Farmers Branch planners outline Gateway to the Globe and combined fall festival with 5K Officials described plans for Gateway to the Globe (March 28, 4–9 p.m., budget $55,000) and a proposed all-day fall festival including a 5K in October; organizers seek vendors, performers, sponsors and volunteer staffing from boards.

Get ready for a vibrant celebration at Gateway to the Globe on March 28, featuring live performances, cultural booths, and an exciting fall festival with a 5K to follow!

Learn more here

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #ActiveLiving #CulturalFestivals #FarmersBranchEvents

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

1 month ago

Farmers Branch council backs resolution seeking improved DART governance Council unanimously approved a nonbinding resolution supporting a weighted-governance restructure for the Dallas Area Rapid Transit board to give Farmers Branch a dedicated seat, while noting the change likely requires action by the Texas Legislature and may take time to implement.

Farmers Branch City Council just took a bold step towards empowering smaller cities by supporting a resolution for a dedicated seat on the DART board!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #CitizenPortal #LocalGovernance #PublicTransit #FarmersBranchGovernance

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

1 month ago

Farmers Branch to study microtransit alternatives; staff recommends Via City staff told council an RFI returned three feasible microtransit options and recommended Via. Council directed staff to pursue a deeper review of Via and further analysis of costs, ADA service, and coverage after hearing estimates of roughly $2.53.0 million annually versus the city's current DART contribution of about $25 million.

Farmers Branch is considering a major shift in public transit options, with staff recommending Via as a promising alternative to DART, potentially saving millions!

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #BudgetConsiderations #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchTransit #PublicTransit

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

1 month ago

Farmers Branch public commenter criticizes DART handling; council schedules closed executive session A resident criticized the council's handling of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) discussions and urged placing DART items on a full council agenda. The council later announced a closed executive session to seek legal advice on DART and other matters and recessed to the city manager's office.

A Farmers Branch resident is calling out the City Council for behind-the-scenes DART discussions, demanding transparency and a full vote from the community.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #TransportationReform #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchTransit

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Farmers Branch approves $748,600 professional-services agreement for water and wastewater CIP design Council approved Resolution 2026-018 authorizing a $748,600 professional services agreement with Berkhof, Hendricks & Carter LLP to design the 2026 water and wastewater capital improvement plan, a 20-year plan with a $13 million five-year snapshot divided into three construction phases.

Farmers Branch City Council just approved a $748,600 plan to revamp its aging water and wastewater system, paving the way for a $13 million investment over the next five years!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CommunityPlanning #InfrastructureImprovement #CitizenPortal

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Residents urge Farmers Branch Council to delay DART exit election if no agreement by Feb. 27 Three residents urged the council to pull the planned May ballot measure on leaving DART unless a new agreement is finalized by Feb. 27, arguing postponement until November would preserve leverage and allow the city to learn from peer cities.

Farmers Branch residents are pushing for a delay on a crucial May election regarding DART, urging the council to wait until February 27 to preserve their negotiating power.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchTransit

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Data analyst shows correlations between transit, encampments and concentrated incidents in Farmers Branch A spatial analysis presented to the Farmers Branch council mapped police incident data and found visual correlations between transit stops, homeless encampments and concentrations of assaults and robberies; the presenter proposed exploring microtransit routing and additional local analysis.

A recent analysis reveals alarming connections between transit stops, homeless encampments, and spikes in crime in Farmers Branch, sparking urgent discussions on public safety and service improvements.

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #DataAnalysis #CitizenPortal

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

MetroTex: Farmers Branch inventory low, median prices in $300K–$399K range; state bills could reshape options MetroTex Realtors told Farmers Branch council that December snapshots show months of inventory at about 2.4 and a median price in the $300,000–$399,000 range, that active listings and closed sales are down, and that state bills on adaptive use and disclosure could affect local housing options over time.

Farmers Branch is facing a tight housing market with median prices in the $300K–$399K range, but state policies could change the game for local buyers.

Learn more here!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #AffordableHousing #FarmersBranchHousing #MarketTrends #StatePolicy

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Farmers Branch Local Government Corporation approves sale agreement negotiations with Stonewood Investments On Feb. 3 the Farmers Branch Local Government Corporation authorized negotiation and execution of a purchase-and-sale agreement with Stonewood Investments for multiple properties, including two parcels east of Valley View Plumbing. Staff said the buyer would have six months after agreement execution to remove the existing plumbing store; proposed drive‑throughs would require separate special‑use permits and potential council zoning action.

Farmers Branch is set for transformation as the Local Government Corporation greenlights negotiations for key properties, but the future of proposed drive-throughs hangs in the balance!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #UrbanDevelopment #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchLocalGov

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Farmers Branch touts corporate relocation, sports tourism and capital projects Mayor Terry Lynn highlighted FormFactor's planned headquarters relocation (an announced $340 million investment and about 600 jobs), the economic impact of hosting the Pickleball World Championships, and 2025 capital spending including $20.6 million in improvement projects and a $7 million water reliability allocation.

Farmers Branch is set to thrive with a new corporate headquarters bringing $340 million and 600 jobs, alongside exciting sports tourism that draws thousands to the city!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #EconomicDevelopment #FarmersBranchEconomy

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Farmers Branch frames DART membership for voters, outlines alternative transit plans Mayor Terry Lynn said Farmers Branch voters will decide whether to stay in Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and that staff have issued a Request for Information (RFI) for alternative service models designed to preserve paratransit and on‑demand connectivity if the city exits the DART system.

Farmers Branch residents will soon decide their transit future as Mayor Terry Lynn reveals plans for a public vote on DART membership and alternative transportation options.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchTransit

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

2 months ago

Farmers Branch staff explain recent water‑and‑wastewater rate changes, expand outreach and rebates Public Works told the Sustainability Committee that the city raised water and wastewater rates (first increase in about 10 years), removed a 10,000‑gallon sewer cap and is expanding rebates, smart‑meter tools and leak‑detection outreach to encourage conservation and help affected residents.

Farmers Branch is shaking up its water and wastewater rates for the first time in a decade, aiming to boost conservation while tackling rising costs and aging infrastructure.

Learn more here

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #FarmersBranchSustainability #CitizenPortal #UtilityRates

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

3 months ago

Farmers Branch committee weighs curbside food‑waste pickup and drop‑off options Committee members discussed options for food‑waste diversion, including reintroducing a drop‑off site and an opt‑in curbside pickup service (described as a weekly 5‑gallon bucket swap). Staff asked whether residents would pay roughly $35 per month for curbside service; no decision was made.

Farmers Branch is exploring new ways to tackle food waste, debating between a convenient curbside pickup and a free but limited drop-off site—would you pay $35 for the convenience?

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CommunityParticipation #SustainabilityInitiatives

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

3 months ago

Farmers Branch sustainability panel: NCTCOG recommends four DC fast chargers for funding Staff told the Farmers Branch Sustainability Committee that the city’s application to an NCTCOG EV‑charger grant is recommended for funding; if approved by the Regional Transportation Council and executive board, four DC fast chargers would be installed near The Grove DART station.

Farmers Branch is one step closer to easing electric vehicle range anxiety with a grant recommendation for four fast chargers near The Grove DART station!

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CommunityInitiatives #SustainableTransportation #FarmersBranchSustainability

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

3 months ago

Farmers Branch council approves $341,912 contract for real‑time crime center, regional drone program The city approved Resolution 2025‑243 to contract with AVI Systems (DBA Forte) for a $341,912 technology build‑out of a real‑time crime center tied to a regional drone‑as‑first‑responder program; council was told ongoing costs could approach $1 million annually and additional grant funding will be sought.

Farmers Branch is set to revolutionize public safety with a $341,912 investment in a cutting-edge real-time crime center and drone response program!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #EmergencyResponse #TechnologyInnovation #CrimePrevention #FarmersBranchPublicSafety

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

3 months ago

Mayor sends council into executive session to consult attorneys on pending Gadbury Construction lawsuit and DART matters The council recessed into closed session under Texas Government Code §551.071 to consult with city attorneys about pending litigation (City of Farmers Branch v. Gadbury Construction et al.) and legal matters related to Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART).

The Mayor of Farmers Branch has called for a closed executive session to tackle crucial legal matters, including a lawsuit against Gadbury Construction and issues surrounding Dallas Area Rapid Transit.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicAccountability #FarmersBranchCouncil

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

4 months ago

Farmers Branch updates council on encampments, MetroCrest partnership and reporting options Emergency management coordinator Luke Parton described hotspots near the Dallas border, partnerships with MetroCrest, TxDOT and DART, a biweekly cleaning contract, and resident reporting pathways (city hall main line, MetroCrest form, FB TX Connect and Dallas 311). Council thanked partners and asked staff to seek grant opportunities.

Farmers Branch is tackling homelessness head-on with a strategic partnership and new reporting options to keep our community safe and clean.

Learn more here!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #FarmersBranchHomelessness #CommunityOutreach #HousingAccess

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

4 months ago

Council briefed on Public Facility and Housing Finance corporations after out-of-city HFC bought local apartments Deputy Director Darren Harris explained differences between a Public Facility Corporation (PFC) and a Housing Finance Corporation (HFC), noted a Valley View property purchased by a traveling HFC and warned of potential 10-year tax-exemption consequences and impending appraisal-board review while litigation continues in other counties.

Farmers Branch is facing crucial decisions on public financing as a traveling Housing Finance Corporation prepares to shake up local housing markets—what does this mean for residents?

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchHousing #EconomicDevelopment

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

4 months ago

Farmers Branch sustainability committee narrows 2026 priorities to recycling access, waste reduction and built-natural harmony Committee members ranked and selected top priorities for next year: access to recycling, waste-reduction/composting, and harmony between built and natural environments (tree canopy, native planting, water conservation). Members also discussed forming waste-reduction and clean‑tech subcommittees and piloting a zero‑waste festival.

The Farmers Branch Sustainability Committee has set its sights on bold 2026 priorities, focusing on recycling access, waste reduction, and creating harmony between our built and natural environments.

Learn more here!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchSustainability

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

4 months ago

Farmers Branch sustainability committee highlights Texan by Nature, SolSmart and DOE recognitions The Farmers Branch Sustainability Committee reported winning multiple recognitions: a project certification and selection as a Texan by Nature “Texan 20” awardee, and a Department of Energy SolSmart bronze designation acknowledging the city’s solar-friendly work. Staff said plaques will be displayed and pursuit of higher SolSmart certification will

Farmers Branch is shining bright with multiple national sustainability accolades, including a coveted Texan 20 award and a SolSmart bronze designation for solar-friendly initiatives!

Learn more here

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #SolarEnergy #CommunityEngagement

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

4 months ago

Farmers Branch committee seeks regional grant for EV fast chargers as local EV registrations climb Staff told the committee it submitted a regional grant application for four fast chargers (city-owned sites) that would be reimbursed after installation; chargers are costly (roughly $75,000 each) but vendors typically guarantee uptime and handle maintenance. Committee members discussed siting, vendor compatibility and rising local EV registrations

Farmers Branch is gearing up to supercharge its commitment to sustainability with plans for new electric vehicle fast chargers, aiming to attract more drivers and businesses to the area.

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #FarmersBranchEVInfrastructure #CitizenPortal

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

5 months ago

Farmers Branch council orders May 2, 2026 ballot question on DART membership after weeks of debate The Farmers Branch City Council voted Nov. 4 to place an ordinance on the May 2, 2026 ballot asking residents whether the city should withdraw from the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system. The decision follows months of negotiations with DART and a lengthy public‑comment period in which riders, employers, disability advocates and transit‑policy

Farmers Branch City Council just voted to put a major decision about leaving the DART transit system into the hands of voters, sparking a heated debate about public transportation's future in the city.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CivicEngagement #CitizenPortal

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

5 months ago

Farmers Branch reports more than a dozen active grants; DART reimbursement approved City staff told council the city is in closeout or active phases on multiple federal, state and local grants, reported an approved DART reimbursement of about $1.6 million and said FEMA reimbursements routed through TDEM are pending. Staff asked council to consider quarterly grant reporting and said several projects funded by ARPA and other sources

Farmers Branch is navigating over $338 million in active grants, with exciting updates on federal reimbursements and upcoming projects that could transform the community!

Learn more here

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #PublicFunding #CitizenPortal #FarmersBranchGrantManagement

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

5 months ago

Public works: Farmers Branchaverage pavement condition above national benchmark; B Street prioritized, county partnership could cut costs Staff presented the citywide pavement-condition index (PCI), showing Farmers Branch at an average PCI of 79 versus a national average of about 70; B Street and other low-scoring corridors were identified for attention and a Dallas County labor partnership could save roughly 40% on reconstruction labor costs.

Farmers Branch is raising the bar with an impressive average pavement condition score of 79, beating the national average—find out which streets are set for urgent upgrades!

Learn more here

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #DataDrivenDecisions #FarmersBranchPublicWorks

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

5 months ago

Design contracts eyed for Squire and Mercer parks as council considers leftover funds Staff said design work for Squire Park is expected to move forward in November and Mercer Park design is underway after surveying; council is reviewing about $22.3 million in fund balance leftover from the prior fiscal year and may allocate some of it to these projects.

Exciting developments are underway as Farmers Branch explores how to allocate $22.3 million in leftover funds for park improvements, including new designs for Squire and Mercer Parks!

Learn more here!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #CommunityDevelopment #FarmersBranchParks

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

6 months ago

Residents Advocate for Increased Parking to Alleviate Local Issues Residents express support for additional parking to address local parking challenges.

Farmers Branch residents are rallying for more parking solutions as the City Council takes their concerns seriously to tackle chronic parking shortages.

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #QualityOfLife #UrbanPlanning #FarmersBranchParking #CommunityNeed

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

6 months ago

Dallas Council Members Address Local Concerns Over Carpenter Park Management Council members discuss issues relating to Carpenter Park's public amenities and community impact.

Farmers Branch City Council is at a crossroads as concerns over a splash pad's impact on the community clash with budget discussions—what will they decide?

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #FarmersBranchCommunity #BudgetTransparency #CitizenPortal #CommunityEngagement

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

6 months ago

Dallas Park Officials Discuss Splash Pad Limitations and Funding Constraints Officials confirm splash pad's seasonal unavailability due to freezing water mechanism issues.

Farmers Branch City Council is grappling with the costly challenges of a splash pad that might freeze in winter and leave the community high and dry!

Click to read more!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #CommunityAmenities #FiscalResponsibility #FarmersBranchParks

Citizen Portal News Texas

@citizenptnewstx.bsky.social

6 months ago

City Council Discusses Funding and Design Improvements for Neglected Local Park Council members emphasize the need for enhanced funding and critical park features.

The Farmers Branch City Council is taking bold steps to transform a neglected local park into a vibrant community hub, but funding challenges loom large.

Get the details!

#FarmersBranchDallasCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #UrbanEnhancement #FarmersBranchParks #CommunityRecreational #BudgetAllocation