At the Fort Worth Chamber’s annual State of the County event, Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare reaffirmed his commitment to keeping the county the safest and most affordable large county in the nation. Speaking to business executives, nonprofit leaders and elected officials at the River Ranch Stockyards, O’Hare highlighted four core values that drive the county’s success: low taxes, “common‑sense” spending, helping those in need, and a strong public‑safety environment.
Low‑Tax Strategy for Economic Growth
O’Hare emphasized that government does not create jobs, but it can create an environment where job creators thrive. He said the county has taken a “business approach” to tax policy, lowering the property‑tax rate for the fourth year in a row. The latest reduction is projected to save homeowners roughly $1 per year on their tax bills. The 2027 budget reflects this philosophy, allocating modest merit‑based raises for county employees while preserving the low‑tax structure that attracts businesses and families.
Public‑Safety Investment
The adopted budget also includes a 4% pay increase for law‑enforcement officers, signaling the administration’s dedication to public safety. O’Hare noted that a safe community is essential for families to prosper and for businesses to invest confidently in the region.
Balancing Growth and Services
With Tarrant County’s population continuing to surge, O’Hare said the commissioners court is focused on meeting the needs of a fast‑growing economy without raising taxes. He praised the county’s “common‑sense” spending plan, which aims to help residents who need a hand while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Election Context
The address came just days before early voting begins (Oct. 19‑30). O’Hare is seeking a second term as county judge and will face Democratic County Commissioner Alisa Simmons on the Nov. 3 ballot. Simmons has campaigned on a balanced‑budget platform, accusing O’Hare of increasing spending by $150 million from 2022 to 2025 while “irresponsibly” limiting revenue.
Personal Touch
O’Hare, who moved from Farmers Branch to Southlake with his wife and four daughters, described Tarrant County as “an incredible place to live, work, worship, and raise a family.” He urged residents to count their blessings and support the county’s continued focus on safety, affordability and opportunity.
County officials say the budget’s modest raises for non‑law‑enforcement staff (3% merit‑based) and the elected commissioners (3%) are designed to retain talent while keeping overall spending in check. The approach reflects O’Hare’s belief that prudent fiscal policy and strong public‑safety funding go hand‑in hand in fostering a thriving community for working families.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
