ARLINGTON, Texas — The City of Arlington has officially released its Fiscal Year 2025 Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR), offering residents a transparent look at the city’s $722 million operating budget and its long-term financial health. The report follows a “clean opinion” from independent auditors, confirming that Arlington continues to set the standard for municipal fiscal management in Texas.
The “ACTIV” New Era of Community Service
FY25 was defined by the successful launch of major voter-approved projects that directly enhance resident quality of life:
- The ACTIV Center: Opened in March 2025, this 73,000-square-foot facility at 2061 W. Green Oaks Blvd has become a vibrant hub for adults aged 50 and older. The center features a world-class natatorium and fitness wings, representing a bold reimagining of active aging in “The American Dream City.”
- The Clean Team: Launched in March 2025, this specialized four-person crew has already removed over 5.7 tons of litter and cleared hundreds of abandoned shopping carts and illegal signs from high-traffic corridors like Ryan Plaza and Sublett Road.
Fiscal Stewardship and Regional Success
Chief Financial Officer Spenser Slider noted that while the post-COVID “tailwinds” have leveled off, the city’s proactive management ensured that critical services—such as public safety and infrastructure—remained fully funded.
- Revenue Breakdown: Taxation remains the city’s primary fuel at 65%, followed by user fees (14%) and strategic grants (4%).
- Debt Management: The city continues to manage debt without raising tax rates, utilizing its Event Trust Fund and tourism-based revenues to fund massive regional draws like the World Cup preparations and the Grand Prix.
A Gold-Standard Reputation
Arlington remains one of the few cities in the state to hold all six Transparency Stars from the Texas Comptroller’s Office. The city also secured national recognition in FY25, including:
- Distinguished Budget Presentation Award (GFOA)
- Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (NPI)
- Gold Medal for Parks and Recreation (Texas Recreation and Park Society)
