The Town of Highland Park has been a member of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Authority ("DART") since its creation in 1983. Currently, there are thirteen member cities, each contributing one cent of sales and use tax to the authority. For Fiscal Year 2024-25, the Town’s projected contribution amounts to $6.8 M.
In the Study Session Meeting held on July 16, 2024, Tobin Maples, Town Administrator, and Mayor Will C. Beecherl explained the cost allocation methodology and initiatives being advanced by other member cities. After discussion among the Town Council Members, it was agreed upon that there are concerns that the services provided to taxpayers may not be commensurate with the current contribution provided to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Authority. Mr. Maples explained that a resolution would be brought to the Town Council at a future meeting to adopt a position of support to reduce the sales and use tax collections of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Authority not to exceed three-quarters of a cent.