Fort Worth Voters Decide on Bond, Salaries, and Council Race

0:00It's April 19th. This is Dallas News today, your AI-powered local news. Fort Worth voters gear up for the May 2nd election, with early voting from April 20th through 28th. On the ballot, an $845 million bond package for streets, parks, libraries, housing, and public safety facilities. Plus charter amendments, and a special vote for the Open District 10 City Council Seed of North. This marks the third push in 10 years to boost pay for the mayor and council. Proposition G would nearly double salaries. Mayors from 29,000 to $60,000 a year. Council members from 25,000 to 50,000. Kicking in this October, past tries flopped, like in 2022 when voters' next variable raises tied to staff pay. Folks argue low pay scares off working candidates, leaving council spots for retirees or the independently wealthy. Fort Worth lags behind peer cities and compensation, even with its strong city manager set up.

1:02Supporters say residents demand heavy involvement from leaders, making full-time commitment tough, without better cash. Another tweak, Proposition J, would let council approve the annual budget right after the public hearing, speeding things up under state law. Turnout can make or break these. Charter votes often tank with low crowds, but the big bond and council raise might pull more people. Spaniard May 2, if voters show up strong, these changes could finally stick and reshape how Fort Worth runs this leadership game.