Latest news with #KimberlyBizorTolbert
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dallas Terminates Fair Park Management Deal Before State Fair
The City of Dallas announced Wednesday it has issued a notice of termination to Fair Park First, the nonprofit managing Fair Park under a long-term agreement, effective in 90 days. The decision also ends the subcontracting relationship with OVG360, which has handled venue and facilities management and daily operations at Fair Park since January 2019. The termination will become effective just days ahead of the start of the State Fair of Texas, which opens at Fair Park this year on September 26 and runs for three weeks. The fair attracts more than 2 million visitors each year. City leaders cited a flawed organizational structure in the existing contract, which lacks a direct relationship between OVG360 and the city, as the reason for the termination. 'Fair Park is a vital part of our city's cultural and historic identity,' said Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. 'This decision reflects our commitment to ensuring sound stewardship and transparent management of this beloved public asset. 'The city is prepared to move forward decisively to protect Fair Park's future. We will work with all our stakeholders to maintain this Crown Jewel of Dallas.' The move follows scrutiny of Fair Park First and OVG360 after an October 2024 audit revealed that $5.7 million in private donations, restricted for specific Fair Park projects, were misused by OVG360 for operating expenses and unqualified projects. This accounted for roughly a third of the total funds raised since the city awarded the management deal to the partnership between Fair Park First and Oak View Group, OVG360's parent company. Oak View Group later disputed the audit findings. Reports also surfaced about OVG360's issues paying third-party vendors. 'This step enables us to reset our approach to Fair Park management and is in the best interest of Fair Park, patrons, and the taxpayers of Dallas,' said John D. Jenkins, Director of the Dallas Park and Recreation Department. 'Dallas is firmly committed to developing a new plan that is financially sustainable, vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive in order to propel Fair Park forward so that Dallas residents will be able to enjoy the park year-round.' 'The new plan will involve Dallas Park and Recreation managing the daily operations and maintenance, partnering with a non-profit to deliver third party funding opportunities, continuing the relationship with existing campus partners, and bringing in new companies with expertise in producing large and small events and programs,' Jenkins added. During the transition, Dallas Park and Recreation staff will be on-site to ensure continuity for park tenants, campus partners, and upcoming events. The city will honor all existing contracts for park events.
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dallas Seniors Get Property Tax Break
Dallas seniors and disabled homeowners will see significant property tax relief next year as the City Council approved raising exemptions from $153,400 to $175,000. The increase, announced in a press release, takes effect for the 2025 tax year. The expanded exemption means eligible homeowners with properties valued at $218,750 or less will pay zero city property taxes. That's because the exemption combines with the existing 20% homestead reduction. 'We are proud to support our older and disabled residents with this increase,' said Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert. 'This exemption helps Dallas homeowners stay in their homes as they age.' The relief applies only to primary residences whose owners are 65 or older or certified disabled under Social Security guidelines. Current recipients don't need to reapply. Still, many eligible homeowners haven't claimed this benefit. Texas law allows only one exemption per residence, either over-65 or disabled. Surviving spouses can continue receiving the exemption if they were at least 55 when their partner died. But they must have already qualified for the over-65 exemption. However, the application process varies by location. The city of Dallas spans multiple counties, each with its own appraisal district. Dallas County residents apply through while Collin County homeowners use Those in Denton County visit The exemption reduces the taxable value specifically for city property taxes. Other taxing entities maintain separate exemption policies. City officials encourage all eligible homeowners to apply immediately. The increased exemption represents a substantial savings opportunity for fixed-income residents facing rising property values.
