Dallas council backs funding to keep pools, library programs open

Dallas City Council members signaled support for restoring funding to community pools, library adult education, and other neighborhood services in the proposed $5.6 billion budget, potentially saving them for another year. The council debated amendments during a lengthy Wednesday meeting ahead of the final budget adoption on Sept. 16. City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert framed 2027 as a "bridge year" while the city transitions services to private partners. Council members backed amendments to keep six community pools open for $700,000, restore $125,000 for adult learning programs, and add $175,000 for spay and neuter services using legal settlement funds. Other supported measures included $1 million for eviction defense, bolstering the inspector general's office, and restoring $300,000 for taxpayer-funded lobbying ahead of property tax reform debates. Proposals to eliminate Flock cameras and President's Day as a city holiday failed.