Fort Worth · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fort Worth public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
First Responder Workers' Compensation
A resident, citing first responders and published comments by Council Member Lauersdorf, said the city's workers' comp system (run with Sedgwick) needs serious reform to properly care for injured first responders.
Flock surveillance camera contract
A resident warned that the city's Flock camera contract expires within months and urged the council not to renew it, citing mass surveillance, racial bias, and use by immigration enforcement.
Police accountability and use of force
A resident detailed numerous use-of-force allegations against one Fort Worth officer and blamed the police union contract and campaign contributions for a lack of accountability.
Fire lift assist fees
The council created a new fee for certain non-emergency lift assist calls at care facilities, with a late fee and exemptions. The aim is to recover costs when fire crews are called repeatedly for non-emergencies.
Police Department Command Staff and Patrol Realignment
The City Council will review recent command staff appointments and the addition of 30 patrol corporal positions aimed at boosting field training and career paths for officers.
Crossing Guard Program and School Safety
The council adjusted speed limits at school zones across seven districts as part of the consent agenda.
Substandard Property Enforcement on South Riverside Drive
The commission reviewed numerous residential properties facing severe structural, fire, or maintenance issues, including collapsed roofs, foundation failures, and unapproved living conditions. Owners and family members requested additional time to make repairs, sell properties, or navigate family estates, while the city pressed for strict compliance to protect neighborhood safety.
Nuisance Enforcement Task Force (NET Force) Operational Update
Code compliance updated the council on NET Force's success in tackling problem properties, motels, and convenience stores through multi-departmental inspections and aggressive legal enforcement.
Lancaster Corridor Public Safety Initiative
The city is proposing council-initiated zoning changes for properties along the East Lancaster Corridor near Texas Wesleyan University in District 11.
School Resource Officer Program Funding
The council renewed SRO interlocal agreements for FY27 at about $10.1 million. One resident questioned whether 57 officers for Fort Worth ISD is too many given declining enrollment, suggesting some be reassigned to patrol.
Incoming Flood Watch and Weather Preparedness
A flood watch is in effect Wednesday night into Thursday with 2-5 inches of rain expected, up to 8 inches locally. City crews are on emergency standby and flood-warning equipment is ready. Council Member Peoples asked about coordination with TxDOT on the Loop 820 construction area that tends to flood in District 5.
Code Officer Courtright Recognition
Code Officer Jeremiah Courtright got a special recognition after helping an elderly District 2 resident who was living without air conditioning, running water, or electricity. He connected her with city assistance programs, checked on her regularly, and even brought food for her cat. She's now back teaching math at a Fort Worth middle school.
Fire Department Collective Bargaining Agreement
The city approved a four-year labor contract with firefighters, setting pay and rules through 2030 after months of negotiations.
Animal Shelter Bond Project and Code Coordination
Council Member Hill asked for three follow-ups: an update on the voter-approved animal shelter bond project, a report on squatting and code compliance (including police coordination and a possible vacant property registry), and an overview of how city departments coordinate on construction projects after a well-attended town hall on Marine Creek area roads.
Police Staffing, Corporal Positions, and Bargaining Units
The police department's authorized civil service positions grow by 80 starting October 1, funded in the FY2027 budget.
New Animal Shelter Site Selection
Fort Worth is moving forward with a new $59.8 million animal shelter to replace the aging Silcox facility. Staff recommended a city-owned site on Willard Road to save money and avoid buying private land.
Atatiana Jefferson Estate Settlement
The city approved an $11.25 million payout to resolve the civil lawsuit stemming from the 2019 fatal shooting of Atatiana Jefferson by a former police officer.
Interim Fire Chief Appointment
James W. Horton was officially confirmed as the interim fire chief to lead the Fort Worth Fire Department.
Legal Fee Reconsideration for Former Officer Aaron Dean
The Council debated and approved increased legal fee funding for the defense of former police officer Aaron Dean, drawing varied public and council opinions.
Police Vehicle Pursuits and Officer-Involved Accidents
Council members dug into data on police pursuits and accidents, asking for a deeper look at crime triggers, asset damages, and the costs of pursuit technologies.
Independence Day Illegal Fireworks and Gunfire Enforcement
Police and fire departments are ramping up patrols, public awareness campaigns, and data-driven resource allocations to crack down on illegal fireworks and celebratory gunfire during the July 4th holiday.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Safety Planning
With the World Cup approaching, the city is coordinating with regional partners to ensure that public safety services can handle the influx of visitors while maintaining standard emergency response times for residents.
MHMR Youth Substance Abuse Grant and Gender Equity
The board reviewed the grant application and support process, subsequently approving $114,750 for MHMR of Tarrant County while pressing staff to ensure equitable counseling services for both boys and girls.