Arlington pushes May election back for coronavirus, passes ‘stay home, work safe’ order
Arlington has rescheduled its local election from May 2 to Nov. 3 to comply with coronavirus recommendations from the state.
The election will decide who sits on the city council and determine whether the city can raise the sales tax within its limits.
The city added the sales tax increase to the ballot in February.
Arlington’s sales tax includes a half cent for the debt on Globe Life Field and AT&T Stadium. One cent goes to the general fund, a quarter cent goes toward street maintenance, and the other 6.25% goes to the state.
The city expects to raise $68.4 million in 2020 through its sales tax, accounting for 25.4% of its general fund revenues. Property taxes will bring in $118.8 million.
The city is hoping that the increase can provide some property tax relief, City Manager Trey Yelverton said at a Feb. 4 meeting. Texas passed a law last year designed to limit the growth of property tax bills.
The city already had scheduled “tele town halls,” held online and over the phone, to discuss the proposed increase with residents. More may be scheduled soon.
Candidate filings will remain valid and deadlines for voter registration and mail-in ballots will be the same as those for the presidential election.
Many residents originally asked the council to place the items on the general election ballot Nov. 3 when it was originally approved.
Mayor Jeff Williams and several council members said they wanted the city council races and sales tax vote on May 2 to allow deeper discussions. They worried the presidential race debate would overshadow discussion of local issues.
Arlington also approved a “stay home, work safe” order that reflects the requirements of Tarrant County’s order meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Fort Worth also issued a stay-at-home order.
Yelverton said the city will consider working with other local governments to send emergency text notifications or reverse 911 calls to keep residents up to date on the requirements in response to a resident suggestion during the meeting.
Arlington does not have that capability on its own.