Dallas begins the new fiscal year on October 1 with a police force that remains below the 4,000‑officer level approved by voters in Proposition U. The department currently employs 3,410 sworn officers, leaving a shortfall of 590 officers compared with the charter requirement.

Budget reflects incremental staffing increase

The city council approved a $5.7 billion budget for FY 2026‑27 on September 16. Within that budget, the Dallas Police Department (DPD) is projected to reach approximately 3,651 sworn officers by the end of the next fiscal year, an increase of 241 officers over the current count. The plan further anticipates 3,800 officers by the end of FY 2028, still leaving the department roughly 200 officers below the 4,000‑officer target two years from now.

Proposition U’s staffing mandate

Proposition U, approved by a narrow 50.43% to 49.57% margin on November 5, 2024, amended the Dallas City Charter to require the city to increase the number of full‑time sworn police officers to at least 4,000 and to maintain or improve the officer‑to‑population ratio. The amendment also directs at least 50% of year‑over‑year increases in unrestricted revenue toward the Dallas Police and Fire Pension System, with any excess funds earmarked for specific public‑safety objectives.

Legal challenge from the state

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the city, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, and CFO Jack Ireland in February, alleging that the city miscalculated the revenue subject to Proposition U and failed to meet other charter requirements. Paxton’s office claims the city understated projected excess revenue for FY 2026, estimating it at roughly $220 million, while the city used a smaller figure in its calculations. Dallas has responded by filing a motion to dismiss, arguing that state law preempts portions of the charter provision and that governmental immunity applies.

City officials emphasize recruitment efforts

City Council Member Cara Mendelsohn warned that failing to meet the staffing requirement could invite further legal scrutiny, stating, “We have to put our money where our mouth is. We can’t have the mayor on a national stage saying public safety is number one and then not fund it.” Dallas officials point to aggressive recruiting and retention initiatives as evidence of progress, acknowledging the challenges of hiring while accounting for retirements and attrition.

Financial commitment to public safety

The newly approved budget allocates more than $823 million from the General Fund to police operations in FY 2027, up from approximately $758 million in FY 2026. This increase reflects the city’s commitment to public‑safety objectives outlined in Proposition U, even as it restructures spending in other areas.

Looking ahead

While the staffing trajectory shows a clear upward trend, Dallas remains short of the voter‑mandated 4,000‑officer goal. The city’s next steps will likely focus on sustaining recruitment momentum, addressing the legal dispute with the Attorney General’s office, and ensuring that additional revenue is directed in accordance with Proposition U’s requirements.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.