Benbrook citizens will soon decide if the City of Benbrook should issue $22 million in bonds for a new Municipal Complex.  

The proposed bond is for design and construction of a new two-story, approximately 35,000 square-foot Benbrook Municipal Complex to house the Police Station, Senior Citizen's Center, Municipal Court, City Hall Offices, and a Visitor's Center. Planned outdoor amenities include a large greenspace for picnics/relaxation, a water fountain/splash feature for public enjoyment, and a band shell for festivals and events on the grounds. Of importance to city leaders, the project will NOT result in a property tax rate increase.

In 2019, as part of the City's updated 2020 Comprehensive Plan, a Citizen's Committee recommended a new Municipal Complex to replace several existing municipal buildings, and to act as an anchor for a proposed downtown development (link below):

2020 Comprehensive Plan Land Use Goal #6: Establish an active and vibrant downtown Benbrook

DISCLAIMER: 
This webpage is for informational purposes only. Nothing contained here should be construed to advocate for the passage or defeat of the proposition.

Will this project increase my property taxes? Why issue debt?

No, the project will not result in a property tax rate increase. Whenever possible, the City of Benbrook pays cash for capital improvements. A core value of the City is to operate in a fiscally sound manner, keeping taxes and debt obligations low. For a large, significant project such as a new Municipal Complex, financing helps keep property taxes low and allows the City to complete the project sooner than relying on cash reserves. By financing the project now, the City can take advantage of it's exceptional credit rating, pay lower interest rates for bonds, and lock in construction costs, avoiding future increased costs of deferred improvements. The City can utilize funds from existing debt that is being paid off toward a new bond, along with other funds in the current budget, to finance the project.

Why do we need a new Municipal Complex?

The City has identified significant issues with existing municipal buildings (click here); the buildings are aging and have mechanical issues, electrical problems, ADA non-compliance and/or other challenges. The City also reviewed several other options to remedy the issues related to these structures. Ultimately, the Citizen's Committee recommended proposing a new Municipal Complex to resolve building failure issues, consolidate several city services for a one-stop shop experience for citizens, save future repair/maintenance costs, and provide a redevelopment anchor opportunity for a Benbrook downtown.

What about public input?

The Citizen's Committee hosted public meetings and open houses to solicit public input prior to making a recommendation. Public hearings were also held by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.

Where will the proposed new Municipal Complex be located? 

On the site of the existing Senior Citizen's Center building, 1010 Mercedes Street, located between City Hall and the Police Station (see 'Conceptual Only' graphic above). The final location of outdoor elements are to be determined. During construction, Senior Citizen's Center activities will temporarily move to the Benbrook Community Center/Lion's Club building at 228 San Angelo Avenue. The existing Police Station and City Hall will remain open during construction, saving temporary relocation costs and avoiding disruption of city services.

City of Benbrook Proposed 2021 Bond Program FACT SHEET (can be printed from this link)


Overhead View of Municipal Complex (pdf)

Side View of Municipal Complex (pdf)

Front View of Municipal Complex (pdf)

Collage View of Municipal Complex (pdf)

Conceptual Site Plan (pdf)

Who do I call if I have additional questions? 

Jim Hinderaker, Assistant City Manager, at 817-249-6005

Election Information

Election Day & Time:
Saturday, May 1, 2021                 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Early Voting Days & Times:
April 19-23 Monday-Friday          8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
April 24 Saturday                         7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
April 25 Sunday                          11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
April 26-27 Monday-Tuesday       7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Local Polling Place:
Benbrook Community Center/Lions Club
228 San Angelo, Benbrook, TX 76126
 

For additional polling places, go to: https://www.tarrantcounty.com/en/elections.html