Fort Worth is set to allocate approximately $460.1 million to its police department in the upcoming fiscal year, making it the largest budget item for the city. This figure is significantly higher than the budget for the fire department, which is projected to be around half of the police allocation. The budget drafts reveal that cities often prioritize police and fire services among their largest expenditures.
A portion of the police funding, specifically $130.27 million, will be sourced from the Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD), which is supported by a 0.5 cent sales tax. The remainder will be drawn from the city’s general fund. The budget is pending final approval, with the Fort Worth City Council scheduled to vote on September 16, 2025.
Budget Breakdown and Strategic Plans
The proposed budget allocates around $290.4 million for salaries and benefits for approximately 1,896 officers and 574 staff members. Additionally, $39.4 million is earmarked for daily operations and maintenance of the police department. Notably, $16.5 million is designated for staff raises as stipulated by the city’s bargaining agreement with the police union.
The overall budget for the department reflects a modest increase of $2.6 million compared to the previous year. This increase is relatively small, attributed to the transfer of 168 emergency response employees and roughly $17.8 million in funding to the newly established Emergency Management & Communications Department.
In response to budgetary constraints, the draft includes provisions for $1.7 million to add eight neighborhood police officers, alongside an initiative to reduce overtime and operating costs by $1.8 million. Earlier this year, City Manager Jay Chapa requested all departments to implement a 1% budget cut, with exceptions made for police and fire services.
Future Challenges and Leadership Transition
The police department’s structure encompasses three main bureaus: the patrol bureau, predominantly staffed by officers; the support bureau, which includes specialized units like SWAT and narcotics; and the finance and personnel bureau, responsible for administrative oversight. The city’s budget plan highlights ongoing challenges, particularly in recruiting and retaining a sufficient police force to meet the demands of its growing population.
Concerns also extend to the maintenance of aging infrastructure and vehicles, which may pose additional financial challenges in the coming years.
On September 16, the City Council will not only vote on the budget but will also officially appoint Eddie García as Fort Worth’s 28th police chief. García will receive an annual salary of $306,000, succeeding former Chief Neil Noakes, who retired in May.
The allocation of funds and the appointment of new leadership signal Fort Worth’s commitment to public safety while navigating the complexities of urban governance. As the city prepares for the next fiscal year, the focus remains on balancing effective law enforcement with fiscal responsibility.