Balancing Fiscal Responsibility and Community Needs
As a seasoned expert in water and sanitation services, community engagement, and advocacy, I am deeply concerned about the implications of Fort Worth’s proposed 2025 budget, which could potentially halve the funds allocated to the Neighborhood Improvement Program. This program has been a vital lifeline for the city’s underserved and historically neglected communities, and any reduction in its funding could have devastating consequences.
The Fort Worth Report recently revealed that City Manager David Cooke is considering reverting to a one-neighborhood-a-year strategy for the Neighborhood Improvement Program, a significant step back from the previous expansion to two neighborhoods per year. This proposed cut is part of a broader effort to keep the city’s tax rate flat and meet the City Council’s expectations, which include prioritizing public safety and street maintenance efforts.
The Importance of the Neighborhood Improvement Program
Launched in 2017, the Neighborhood Improvement Program has been a shining example of Fort Worth’s commitment to addressing the needs of its most vulnerable communities. By targeting areas like Las Vegas Trail and Ash Crescent, the program has made critical investments in infrastructure, including new or repaired sidewalks, streetlights, roads, local park updates, and police cameras. These improvements have the potential to transform the vitality and livability of these neighborhoods, improving access to essential services and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
District 6 Council Member Jared Williams expressed his apprehension about cutting the funding, stating, “I would be very apprehensive on cutting the funding knowing that plan has just gotten started.” This sentiment is echoed by many of the city’s leaders, who have enthusiastically praised the program and the efforts of City Manager Cooke to reinvest in long-neglected parts of the city.
Challenges in Spending Program Funds
One of the key issues raised by City Manager Cooke is the challenge in spending the allocated funds for the Neighborhood Improvement Program in a timely manner. He noted that of the nine neighborhoods involved in the program so far, four have missed the two-year spending deadline, and only two have fully spent their allotted funds. This has resulted in only 57% of the program’s funds being spent, leading Cooke to suggest that the city may need to scale back the program’s expansion to address these spending challenges.
While the city’s desire to be fiscally responsible is understandable, the proposed cut to the Neighborhood Improvement Program could have detrimental effects on the very communities that the program was designed to serve. District 5 Council Member Gyna Bivens expressed her shock at the low spending numbers, suggesting that the city management may need to do more to engage with neighborhood residents and ensure the timely completion of the improvement projects.
Balancing Priorities and Finding Solutions
As the city grapples with the difficult task of balancing its budget and addressing the diverse needs of its communities, it is crucial that the Neighborhood Improvement Program remains a top priority. The program’s impact on the lives of residents in historically neglected neighborhoods cannot be overstated, and any reduction in its funding could undo the progress that has been made.
One potential solution proposed by Council Member Charlie Lauersdorf is to approve cutting the program to one neighborhood per year, with the intention of spending any unused revenue at the end of the fiscal year on a second neighborhood. This compromise could help address the spending challenges while still maintaining a level of investment in the city’s underserved areas.
Additionally, the city should consider engaging a consultant to help execute the improvements more efficiently and effectively, as suggested by Kacey Bess, the newly appointed director of the Neighborhood Services Department. By addressing the internal challenges within the department, the city can ensure that the allocated funds are being utilized to their full potential, and the impact of the Neighborhood Improvement Program is maximized.
Investing in Water and Sanitation Infrastructure
Alongside the Neighborhood Improvement Program, Fort Worth must also prioritize investments in water and sanitation infrastructure to support the resilience and well-being of its communities. As the city grapples with the proposed budget changes, it is crucial that the water and sanitation sector remains a key focus area.
Ensuring Equitable Access to Clean Water and Sanitation
The Joint Action for Water organization believes that every community deserves access to clean, safe, and reliable water and sanitation services. By investing in infrastructure improvements and community engagement initiatives, Fort Worth can ensure that all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location, have access to these essential services.
One key aspect of this effort should be the integration of water and sanitation considerations into the Neighborhood Improvement Program. By aligning these initiatives, the city can address the interconnected needs of its communities, providing not only physical infrastructure upgrades but also essential water and sanitation services that are crucial for public health and environmental sustainability.
Leveraging Partnerships and Funding Opportunities
To support these critical investments, Fort Worth should explore partnerships with local and regional organizations, as well as seek out state and federal funding opportunities. By collaborating with stakeholders and tapping into various funding sources, the city can amplify the impact of its water and sanitation initiatives and ensure that the resources are directed where they are needed most.
The White House’s FY2024 budget proposal includes several provisions that could benefit Fort Worth’s water and sanitation efforts, such as increased funding for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. By aligning its priorities with these national initiatives, the city can leverage additional resources to support its community-focused programs.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Resilient and Equitable Communities
As Fort Worth navigates the complexities of its 2025 budget, it is crucial that the city maintains its commitment to the Neighborhood Improvement Program and expands its focus on water and sanitation infrastructure. These investments are not only vital for the well-being of the city’s most vulnerable communities but also essential for building resilient and equitable neighborhoods that can thrive in the face of ongoing challenges.
By striking a balance between fiscal responsibility and community needs, Fort Worth can set a precedent for other cities to follow. Through innovative solutions, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to serving all its residents, Fort Worth can emerge as a shining example of how local governments can prioritize equity, sustainability, and community empowerment in their budget decision-making processes.
The Joint Action for Water community stands ready to support Fort Worth’s efforts and to share best practices and lessons learned from similar initiatives across the country. Together, we can ensure that every neighborhood in Fort Worth has access to the resources and infrastructure needed to lead healthy, prosperous lives.
