FARMERS BRANCH, Texas - The Farmers Branch City Council voted during a special-called meeting to remain in the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system and rescinded a previously scheduled election that would have allowed voters to consider withdrawing from the regional transit agency.
City leaders approved participation in the General Mobility Program Interlocal Agreement with DART following what officials described as an extensive review of financial, legal, operational, and regional impacts tied to both remaining in and leaving the transit system.
Council members said the decision was guided by protecting residents, businesses, and long-term financial stability. Officials cited concerns that withdrawing could still leave the city responsible for certain statutory sales tax obligations, bond commitments, and potential funding losses while creating operational uncertainty.
As one of DART’s 13 member cities, Farmers Branch evaluated the agency’s long-term debt obligations tied to rail infrastructure and federally funded assets before determining that continued participation represented the most fiscally responsible option.
Under the approved General Mobility Program agreement, Farmers Branch will receive a defined share of DART sales tax revenue over a six-year period. City officials said the funding will support locally directed transportation and infrastructure projects, including street improvements, traffic operations, pedestrian connectivity, and mobility enhancements.
City leaders emphasized that remaining in DART does not end calls for reform. Officials said Farmers Branch intends to continue advocating for stronger governance, increased transparency, improved service reliability, and equitable investment across member cities.
The council described the action as a strategic decision rooted in fiscal responsibility and long-term community benefit rather than political pressure. Officials said maintaining membership allows the city to retain influence over regional transportation planning while ensuring continued access to transit services.
The city said it will continue engaging residents and communicating updates as mobility and infrastructure initiatives move forward.
