Kevin Barrett

The meeting focused on the potential withdrawal of Addison from Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and the consideration of an ordinance to call a special election for this purpose in May 2026. Discussions included ongoing conversations regarding DART's General Mobility Program, the Addison GoLink Zone, and a potential circulator service. Governance changes proposed following discussions with regional partners were reviewed, including Dallas's conditional acceptance of a proposal. The Council reviewed feedback and proposed changes from Farmers Branch and Irving concerning interlocal agreements (ILAs), funding structures, service levels, and governance reform. DART's commitment to pause new long-term debt issuance until after the November 2026 elections was noted. The implications of calling or not calling an election, including service continuation or cessation, were outlined. Furthermore, potential transit solutions providers (RideCo, Circuit, Via, Transdev) were presented, along with next steps for council conversations on service continuity and scope. Preliminary estimates of Addison's withdrawal obligation were presented, indicating a repayment period of 2.88 years based on preliminary financial data. Finally, potential goals for communication to DART regarding funding models and service selection were discussed.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Budget for Addison is presented as a roadmap for a stronger, safer, and more connected community. Key strategic investments include bolstering public safety through enhanced compensation and facilities for police and fire personnel, fostering economic growth via increased funding and a dedicated coordinator, and improving infrastructure with significant investments in road reconstruction, traffic management, and wayfinding. The plan also focuses on enhancing community destinations and events, such as park upgrades, performing arts center improvements, and initiatives related to the 2026 World Cup, ensuring Addison's future readiness.

The City Council meeting included a discussion about Addison's membership in Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) since 1983 and its financial contributions. The town's contribution to DART was discussed, noting it exceeds the service value received. The potential withdrawal of four cities from DART and the implications for remaining cities were also addressed. DART services in Addison, including transit modes, independent analysis, and service value, were reviewed, along with ongoing discussions with DART. The meeting also covered sales tax, local option sales tax, and the withdrawal election process, including calling an election and withdrawal obligations. Goals for DART and next steps were outlined, including the possibility of a withdrawal election in 2026 and potential alternate transit solutions.

The Midway South Special Area Study provides a recommended vision and development policy for the area, guiding future development proposals and infrastructure investments. Key objectives include strengthening the area as a distinctive Addison destination, ensuring new development respects surrounding neighborhoods, incorporating usable public green space, providing complementary uses and pedestrian connections, and building flexibility for phased reinvestment. This framework aims to promote high-quality reinvestment, balancing near-, mid-, and long-term needs over a 30-year horizon, while adapting to evolving market conditions.

The Town of Addison's budget for fiscal year 2026 includes key focus areas and strategic objectives, emphasizing responsible stewardship through strategic staffing and development of current employees, particularly in public safety. It prioritizes capital projects for maintaining and enhancing existing assets, and resource-maximization efforts. The budget focuses on public safety with performance-based step plan for sworn Police and Fire personnel, economic development through increased funding and a new coordinator position, and infrastructure planning and maintenance using the Asset Management Plan. It also highlights resource maximization through cost savings and efficiencies.