Dallas budget for fiscal year 2023-24 voted

Dallas - Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson faced a blow when his strong push for a significant property tax rate cut was turned down by the city council on Wednesday, Dallas Metro News reported. Instead, the council favored City Manager T.C. Broadnax's budget, which offers a less drastic tax rate cut, passing it with a 10 to 5 vote.

Council members' decision largely reflected the opinions of Dallas residents. Many believe that residents prefer maintaining the services laid out in the new budget over service reductions from a larger tax cut. Although the approved tax rate is set at $0.7393 per $100 valuation, a decrease from before, rising property values mean that many homeowners will still see their tax bills increase.

A focal point of Wednesday's discussion was the legacy of the Majestic Theater, a treasured landmark in Dallas, and its affiliation with the Office of Arts and Culture. This historic theater, a remnant from a once vibrant theater district on Elm Street, continues to serve as a community hub, especially its bustling lobby and stage. However, it's evident that parts of the building, like the 43-year-old elevator from its 1980 renovation, require attention. Additionally, the spaces assigned to the Dallas Office of Arts and Culture, situated on the 4th and 5th floors, are insufficient. Although the area hosts 30 employees, it was initially intended for just 19.

The Majestic Theater's accessibility is a significant concern. The restrooms, featuring stairs and narrow entrances, don't align with the guidelines of the Americans With Disabilities Act, a longstanding US mandate. Beyond building issues, city staff face practical dilemmas, like costly downtown parking or the inconvenience of walking long distances from free parking areas.

Councilman Zarin Gracey expressed deep reservations about how such budgetary decisions might impact employee morale and welfare. Notably, Gracey opposed a proposal to hold back $190,000 intended to boost the Office of Arts and Culture from the city's vast $4.6 billion budget.

Similarly, Councilman Adam Bazaldua criticized what he saw as excessive council involvement in department budget proposals. He pointed out that spending extended council hours discussing a relatively small $190,000 item was an oversight in governance.

The debated amendment stems from concerns raised by various arts groups. They've shared worries with the council that shifting money towards the Office of Arts and Culture might unintentionally cut funds they rely on.

“Coming back from Covid, I know arts have struggled with that, and every dollar we can find for artists and for grants, I want to push out there versus an office move,” Councilman Chad West said.

The original budget book said the money would pay for an office relocation.

“I don’t have a district office. I go to coffee shops, gas stations, that’s where I hang out,” Council Member Gay Donnell Willis said. “This set off alarm bells, and I think that’s why what was in the book has shifted.”

Martine Elyse Philippe, Director of the Office of Arts and Culture, outlined the revised spending plan for her department. Key points highlighted included essential elevator repairs, space adjustments to house a growing staff, parking incentives for downtown employees, and an initial study on potentially relocating the department in upcoming years.

“It would be great if they could work out in the community, but we say in the same sentence, there is no space out in the community for the arts organizations actually to work in,” City Manager T.C. Broadnax said.

Even with debates over a suggested amendment to hold back $190,000, the proposal was ultimately rejected. Following several thorough weeks of city council examination, the City Manager's budget was approved with only minor changes. This updated budget will take effect starting October 1.

Credit: Dallas Metro News, NBC DFW, Dallas City Hall