Budget & Business Plan Navigation

Piecing It Together Articles

The City of Arlington is facing a challenging Fiscal Year 2026. Throughout the next several months, our “Piecing it Together” budget series will provide a high-level overview of the unique situational and economic factors impacting Arlington’s budget this year. Have a question or topic you’d like to see included? Send us a message.

Watch the Videos

Read the Articles

Arlington’s Slowing Sales Tax Growth Expected to Continue Next Year

To date, City of Arlington sales tax revenue is about $4 million lower than the Fiscal Year 2025 budgeted amount that was approved by City Council last September. Based on current trends, that shortfall could be as much as $7 million by the time final sales tax data for the fiscal year is available to the City in November.

Senior Tax Freeze Impacts City’s General Fund Growth

The growing impact of the senior tax freeze, which removed $4.3 billion in taxable value from the City’s property tax base this year alone, is one of the challenges city leaders face as they work to balance a projected $25 million General Fund budget shortfall in Fiscal Year 2026.

How Entertainment District Growth Helps City Provide Core Services

While Arlington's Entertainment district is a key piece of helping fund programs and experiences that make Arlington a stronger community, it’s not the only piece of the larger budget puzzle.

More Than Property Taxes: How Arlington Funds City Services

Arlington’s operating budget is funded by eight distinct revenue sources, with the General Fund covering essential services like police and fire, while the remaining funds are legally restricted for specific uses such as water, debt service, tourism, and street maintenance.

From Parks to Pipes: The Scope of Arlington's City Assets

The City of Arlington is responsible for maintaining thousands of acres of public land, more than 190 public buildings, thousands of pieces of equipment and public infrastructure both above and below ground throughout the 99-square mile city.

Arlington's Advantage: Lower Taxes and Utility Costs Benefit Residents

A comparison of North Texas cities finds that Arlington residents benefit from comparatively lower city property taxes and utility bills than other municipalities.

Understanding the City’s Low Historical Property Tax Rate

Each August, the Arlington City Council sets the City’s property tax rate as part of the annual budget approval process. And when you compare this to neighboring cities, you’ll find that Arlington’s property tax rate is lower than those in Mansfield, Kennedale, Dalworthington Gardens, Fort Worth and Dallas.

Arlington's Property Tax Exemptions Help Save Residents Money

For decades, the City Council has authorized a variety of exemptions to provide property tax relief for Arlington residential property owners.

City Recognized for Outstanding Fiscal Stewardship and Transparency

The City of Arlington continues to be recognized for its strong financial performance and commitment to transparency, earning accolades from national and state organizations.

En Español