HomeMy WebLinkAbout6222-12-2025 - City Council - ResolutionA Resolution
No. 6222-12-2025
PROVIDING THAT THE CITY OF FORT WORTH ("CITY,,) ELECTS
TO BE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN TAX ABATEMENT
AUTHORIZED BY CHAPTER 312 OF THE TEXAS TAX CODE AND
ESTABLISHING A GENERAL TAX ABATEMENT POLICY
GOVERNING CERTAIN TAX ABATEMENT AGREEMENTS
WHEREAS, a municipality may enter into tax abatement agreements authorized by
Chapter 312 of the Texas Tax Code ("Code") only if the governing body of the municipality has
previously adopted a resolution stating that the municipality elects to be eligible to participate in
tax abatement and has established guidelines and criteria governing general tax abatement
agreements ("General Tax Abatement Policy");
WHEREAS, the City Council seeks to amend the General Tax Abatement Policy for all tax
abatements (other than those granted pursuant to the most current Neighborhood Empowerment
Zone Policy) as adopted by Resolution No. 6100-05-2025 and amended by Resolution 6126-08-
2025 and is effective through April 21, 2027;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT WORTH, TEXAS:
Section 1. That the City Council elects to amend the General Tax Abatement Policy in
accordance with Chapter 312 of the Code.
Section 2. That the City Council adopts the amended General Tax Abatement Policy attached
hereto as Exhibit "A", which constitutes the guidelines, criteria, and procedures governing tax
abatement agreements entered into by the City (other than those granted pursuant to the
Neighborhood Empowerment Zone Policy), effective December 9, 2025 through April 21, 2027,
unless earlier amended or repealed as required by the Code, as amended.
Section 3. That this General Tax Abatement Policy, as amended, will expressly govern all
tax abatement agreements entered into by the City (other than those granted pursuant to the
Neighborhood Empowerment Zone Policy) during the period in which the General Tax Abatement
Policy is in effect.
Adopted December 9, 2025.
ATTEST:
By:
Jannette S. Goodall, City Secretary
City of Fort Worth
General Tax Abatement Policy
Effective December 9, 2025 through April 22, 2027
1. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
I.I. Purpose
Chapter 312 of the Texas Tax Code allows, but does not obligate or require, the City of
Fort Worth ("City") to grant a Tax Abatement on the value added to a particular property on
account of a specific development project that meets the eligibility requirements set forth in this
Policy. In order for the City to participate in a Tax Abatement, the City is required to establish
guidelines and criteria governing Tax Abatement Agreements. This Policy is intended to set forth
those guidelines and criteria for persons or entities interested in receiving a Tax Abatement from
the City. This Policy, as revised by Resolution 6126-08-2025, will be effective on December 9,
2025 and expire at 11:59 p.m. on April 21, 2027.
1.2. General Eligibility Criteria
A Tax Abatement can only be granted to persons or entities eligible for a Tax Abatement
pursuant to Section 312.204(a) of the Texas Tax Code, which persons or entities as of the
effective date of this Policy must be (i) the owner of taxable real property located in a Tax
Abatement reinvestment zone; or (ii) the owner of a leasehold interest in real property located in
a Tax Abatement reinvestment zone. Although the City will consider all applications for a Tax
Abatement that meet the eligibility requirements set forth in the associated Policy, it is especially
interested in supporting projects that are expected to produce a meaningful impact on the City
and its economy and that result in one or more of the following:
• Growth of business activity, employment, or investment in one of the City's identified
Target Industries;
• Creation of high -wage jobs;
• Significant Investment;
• Growth of business activity, employment, or investment in the Central Business District;
• Revitalization with likelihood of ancillary development in a key employment node or
specifically designated area of the city;
• Retention or expansion of an existing, major employer; and
• Anchoring of a business expansion project with potential to generate additional supply
chain activity.
1.3. General Exclusions and Limitations
1.3.1. Lessees of Real Prouerty
A person or entity seeking a Tax Abatement on real property that is leased from a
third party should be advised that, pursuant to state law, unless the real property owner is
also a party to a Tax Abatement Agreement, the City can only abate taxes on the increased
value of the taxable leasehold interest in the real property, if any, and the increase in value
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 1 of 18
of taxable improvements and Business Personal Property located on the real property and
subject to the leasehold interest, if any. Before applying for a Tax Abatement from the
City, such persons or entities should seek professional and legal guidance, and may wish
to consult with the appraisal district having jurisdiction over the property in question as
to whether their development projects will result in a taxable leasehold interest in the
property and, if so, the anticipated value of that leasehold interest.
1.3.2. Property Located in Neighborhood Empowerment Zones ("NEZs")
The City Council has designated certain distressed areas of the City needing
economic development and expanded public services as NEZs. Notwithstanding anything
that may be interpreted to the contrary, this Policy does not apply to property located in
a NEZ. A person or entity seeking a Tax Abatement on property owned or leased in a
NEZ should refer to the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone Tax Abatement Policy
currently in effect.
1.3.3. Property Located in Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones ("TIFs")
The City Council has designated certain areas of the City as TIFs. This Policy
does apply to property located in a TIF. However, a person or entity seeking a Tax
Abatement on property owned or leased in a TIF should be advised that state law requires
a TIF's board of directors and the governing bodies of all taxing jurisdictions contributing
tax increment revenue to a TIF to approve a City Tax Abatement Agreement on property
located in that TIF before the Agreement can take effect.
1.3.4. Property Located in Enterprise Zones
The State of Texas has designated certain areas of the City with high
unemployment as enterprise zones. Various economic development incentives are
available to owners of property located in enterprise zones. In accordance with state law,
all property located within an enterprise zone is automatically designated as a Tax
Abatement reinvestment zone. However, the City typically designates individual Tax
Abatement reinvestment zone overlays when it wishes to grant Tax Abatements on
property located in an enterprise zone.
2. DEFINITIONS: See Exhibit "A".
3. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR GENERAL PROJECTS.
Unless a project meets one of the other minimum eligibility criteria set forth in Sections 4-9
below, in order to be considered for a Tax Abatement, a project must commit to a minimum Investment
of at least $25 million and the creation of new, full-time jobs that meet a minimum average annual Salary
of at least $60,000 (with the understanding that the City may require higher commitments as determined
on a project -by -project basis in full view and consideration of the specific project deliverables,
anticipated impact, and market environment).
The table below establishes the maximum percentage of a Tax Abatement that may be available
to general projects based on minimum Investment and employment levels:
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 2 of 18
Requirements for General Sector Industries
Maximum
Jobs
>$70 M
$55 M -$70 M
$40 M - $54 M
$25 M - $39M
Term
Required
Investment
Investment
Investment
Investment
3 - 5 years
50 — 100
20% Abatement
20% Abatement
20% Abatement
20% Abatement
6 - 7 years
100 — 250
30% Abatement
30% Abatement
30% Abatement
N/A
8 - 9 years
250 - 400
40% Abatement
40% Abatement
N/A
N/A
10 years
400 +
50% Abatement
N/A
N/A
N/A
All General Sector Industry Projects will be subject to a requirement to demonstrate hiring
practices that prioritize recruitment and employment of Fort Worth Residents and must demonstrate a
"Good Faith Effort" to have at least thirty percent (30%) of employees associated with the project as
Fort Worth Residents.
4. ELIGIBILITY REOUIREMENTS FOR TARGET INDUSTRY PROJECTS.
The City is particularly interested in attracting certain target industries (each defined herein as a
"Target Industry") that will help strengthen and diversify the City's economy:
• Mobility — Automotive & Transportation Manufacturing, Vehicle Technologies,
Micromobility, Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and Electric Flight, Transportation
Services, Logistics Technologies and Management
• Aerospace & Defense — Aerospace Manufacturing and Design, Federal Government,
Information Technology and Analytical Instruments
• Energy — Alternative Energy Generation, Alternative Energy Equipment, Energy Storage
and Distribution, Oil and Gas Management, Oil & Gas Technology, Smart Building
Systems
• Culture — Hospitality and Tourism, Performing Arts, Film, Local Hospitality and
Independent Venues
• Anchors & Innovators — Corporate Headquarters, Engineering, Financial Services,
Professional Services, Colleges and Universities, Research Organizations,
Biopharmaceutical Products and Medical Technologies, Hospitals, Computer and
Information Services
In order to be considered for a Tax Abatement, an applicant for a Target Industry project must
commit to a minimum Investment of at least $25 million and the creation of new, full-time jobs that meet
a minimum average annual Salary of $ at least $60,000 (with the understanding that the City may require
higher commitments as determined on a project -by -project basis in full view and consideration of the
specific project deliverables, anticipated impact, and market environment).
The table below establishes the maximum percentage of Tax Abatement that will be available to
Target Industry projects based on minimum investment and employment:
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 3 of 18
Requirements for Target Sector Industries
Maximum
Jobs
> $70 M +
$55 M -$70 M
$40 M - $54 M
$25 M - $39 M
Term
Required
Investment
Investment
Investment
Investment
3 - 5 years
50 —100
40% Abatement
40% Abatement
40% Abatement
40% Abatement
6 — 7 years
100 — 250
50% Abatement
50% Abatement
50% Abatement
N/A
8 — 9 years
250 - 400
60% Abatement
60% Abatement
N/A
N/A
10 years
400 +
70% Abatement
N/A
N/A
N/A
The difference in the eligibility criteria between general projects under Section 3 and Target
Industry projects under this Section 4 is that the maximum percentage of a Tax Abatement available for
Target Industry projects is 70% instead of 50%.
All Target Sector Industry Projects will be subject to a requirement to demonstrate hiring practices
that prioritize recruitment and employment of Fort Worth Residents and must demonstrate a "Good Faith
Effort" to have at least thirty percent (30%) of employees associated with the project as Fort Worth
Residents.
5. ELIGIBILITY REOUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUSINESS EXPANSION
PROJECTS.
The City desires to support the growth and expansion of existing business in the City. In order to
be considered for a Tax Abatement, an applicant for an Existing Business expansion project must commit
to a minimum Investment of at least $10 million and the creation of at least 25 new, full-time jobs.
Requirements for General Sector Industries
Maximum
Jobs
>$55 M
$40 M -$54 M
$25 M - $39 M
$10 M - $24 M
Term
Required
Investment
Investment
Investment
Investment
3 - 5 years
50 —100
50% Abatement
50% Abatement
50% Abatement
50% Abatement
6 - 7 years
100 — 250
60% Abatement
60% Abatement
60% Abatement
N/A
8 - 9 years
250 - 400
70% Abatement
70% Abatement
N/A
N/A
10 years
400 +
80% Abatement
N/A
N/A
N/A
Any Existing Business expansion project will be considered for a Tax Abatement at a Tax
Abatement percentage not to exceed 80%.
All Target Sector Industry Projects will be subject to a requirement to demonstrate hiring practices
that prioritize recruitment and employment of Fort Worth Residents and must demonstrate a "Good Faith
Effort" to have at least thirty percent (30%) of employees associated with the project as Fort Worth
Residents.
5.1. ELIGIBILITY REOUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLIERS OF ESTABLISHED
TARGET INDUSTRY EMPLOYERS.
The City desires to strengthen and further the growth of target industry clusters in
Fort Worth and to promote a stronger business environment for major established employers that are
currently located in the City. As such, a project completed by or for the supplier of critical materials,
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 4 of 18
components, or services for an established Target Sector company ("Supplier") (i) has a corporate or
regional headquarters that is located in Fort Worth and (ii) employs at least 3,000 people at its Fort Worth
facilities will be eligible for a Tax Abatement. To be eligible, a Supplier project must commit to a
minimum Investment of at least $10 million and the creation of at least 25 new full-time jobs with a
minimum annual average employee Salary of at least $60,000 (with the understanding that the City may
require higher commitments as determined on a project -by -project basis in full view and consideration
of the specific project deliverables, anticipated impact, and market environment).
Requirements for Suppliers of Established Target Industry Employers
Maximum
Jobs
$55 M +
$40 M -$54 M
$25 M - $39 M
$10 M - $24 M
Term
Required
Investment
Investment
Investment
Investment
3 - 5 years
25 —100
45 % Incentive
40 % Incentive
35 % Incentive
30 % Incentive
6 - 10 years
100 +
50 % Incentive
45 % Incentive
40 % Incentive
N/A
6. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR MEGA PROJECTS.
A "Mega Project" can be within any industry. However, the City is especially interested in
Fortune 1,000, Fortune Global 500, and Inc. 5000 designated companies, pursuing development or
redevelopment opportunities within the City. Applicants for Mega Projects granted must commit to at least
one of the following (with the exception of data centers or other unique low employment/high capital
investment projects that must have a minimum investment of $50 million):
Commit to a minimum Investment of at least $250 million;
Commit to hire at least 1,500 full-time employees; or
Commit to a minimum annual payroll of at least $150 million.
A Mega Project will be considered for a Tax Abatement at an Abatement percentage not to exceed
85%.
To be eligible, a Mega Project must commit to a minimum annual average employee Salary level
of at least $60,000 (with the understanding that the City may require higher commitments as determined
on a project -by -project basis in full view and consideration of the specific project deliverables,
anticipated impact, and market environment).
7. ELIGIBILITY REOUIREMENTS FOR TECHNOLOGY COMPANY PROJECTS.
The City wishes to encourage and promote the development of technology businesses. In order to
be considered for a Tax Abatement, a Technology Company project must employ at least 5 individuals.
A Technology Company may receive one of the following Tax Abatements:
• Up to 80% of incremental real property taxes on owned or leased facilities for up to 5 years;
or
• Up to 80% of Business Personal Property taxes for up to 5 years.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 5 of 18
8. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR CATALYTIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS.
To be designated as a "Catalytic Development Project", an applicant must show that the Project
meets the following criteria:
• Located within either a Designated Investment Zone, an Urban Village, an identified
Revitalization Target Area, Innovation District, or Strategic Development Area (as
depicted in Exhibits "B", "C" "D", and "E" respectively);
• Minimum $5 million in Investment; and
• Complies with at least one of the following requirements:
o A Mixed -Use Development;
o Fills a gap, such as a grocery store in a food desert or a childcare facility, as
determined by City staff based on goals set forth in the City's then -current
Comprehensive Plan or other statistical data or relevant documentation;
o Located along a commercial corridor or within an urban village, as identified in the
City's then -current Comprehensive Plan;
o Generates significant j ob opportunities in the area, as determined by City staff based
on then -current employment data; or
o Helps create a hub of entrepreneurial activity, positioning the City to attract
entrepreneurs and high -growth companies, as determined by City staff based on
goals and recommendations set forth in the City's Economic Development Strategic
Plan, the City's then -current Comprehensive Plan, or on other statistical data or
relevant documentation.
All Catalytic Development Projects will be eligible for consideration for a Tax Abatement. The
maximum percentage of Tax Abatement available for a Catalytic Development Project will be 80% of
incremental real property and Business Personal Property tax.
9. ELIGIBILITY REOUIREMENTS FOR TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENTS.
The City encourages and supports the construction of Transit Oriented Developments. In order
to be considered for Tax Abatement, an applicant for a Transit Oriented Development project must
commit to at least $5 million in Investment. The maximum percentage of Tax Abatement available for
a Transit Oriented Development project will be 50% of incremental real property and Business Personal
Property taxes for a maximum term of 7 years.
10. TAX ABATEMENTS IN COOPERATION WITH COUNTIES
The City may, at its sole discretion and for purposes of facilitating a Tax Abatement by a County
as required under Chapter 312 of the Texas Tax Code, elect to enter into a Tax Abatement Agreement
for a term of one (1) year if a County government separately proposes to enter into a Tax Abatement
Agreement in support of the project.
11. ADDITIONAL TAX ABATEMENT REQUIREMENTS.
11.1 Commitment for Utilization of Small Business Firms.
a. All projects subject to a Tax Abatement are subject to the City' s Small Business
Program in Procurement of Goods, Services and Construction Ordinance (Chapter 21
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 6 of 18
of the City Code and herein referred to as " Small Business Ordinance") and must
make a commitment to utilize Small Business Firms ("SBF") (as Small Business is
defined in the Small Business Ordinance) as determined by the Economic
Development Director.
b. If upon completion of the funded portion of the improvements it is determined that
the required SBF commitment was not achieved for a particular category of
improvement as outlined in the agreement, the agreed to penalty or loss of incentive
will be enforced as outlined in the agreement.
11.2. Affordable Housing Support.
All Projects subject to a Tax Abatement Agreement that contain residential units will, for
each year of the Tax Abatement Compliance Term, earn a Tax Abatement that is equal to five
percent (5%) of the incremental City taxes on Real and/or Business Personal Property associated
with the Project ("Affordable Housing Abatement"). Subject to terms more specifically provided
for under the Tax Abatement Agreement, the Project owner will upon receipt of the Affordable
Housing Abatement make equal payment annually to the Fort Worth Housing Finance
Corporation for the purpose of promoting the development or provision of affordable housing, at
all times striving to deliver such affordable housing in close proximity to the Project ("Affordable
Housing Payment"). At no time may the combined value of the Affordable Housing Abatement
and any other Tax Abatement payable under the Tax Abatement Agreement that is based on the
incremental value of City Real and Business Personal Property taxes exceed one hundred percent
(100%) of such taxes.
11.3. Commitment for Emplovment of Fort Worth Residents.
All projects that are subject to a commitment for the employment of at least ten (10)
individuals must also demonstrate hiring practices that prioritize recruitment and employment of
Fort Worth Residents.
12. TAX ABATEMENT CALCULATION.
12.1. Improvements Reauired.
All Tax Abatement Agreements must require the applicant to construct or cause
construction of specific improvements on the real property that is subject to the Tax Abatement.
12.2. Percentage and Amount.
Although this Policy establishes the maximum percentage of Tax Abatement that may be
available for a particular type of project, the specific amount of a particular Tax Abatement will
be determined on a case -by -case basis and may be less than the maximum available percentage
specified in this Policy, based, without limitation, on the review criteria set forth in Section 14.3.
13. TAX ABATEMENT IMPLEMENTATION
13.1. Term.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 7 of 18
Although this Policy establishes the maximum term of a Tax Abatement that may be
available to certain types of projects, the actual term of a Tax Abatement will be determined on
a case -by -case basis and may be less than the maximum available term specified in this Policy,
based on the review criteria set forth in Section 14.3.
13.2. Compliance.
The City will review and determine the recipient's compliance with the terms and
conditions of the Tax Abatement Agreement in each year of the Tax Abatement Compliance
Term. The first year of the Tax Abatement Compliance Term will be either the calendar year in
which the recipient achieved all Investment required by the Tax Abatement Agreement or the
following calendar year, as set forth in the Tax Abatement Agreement. The City will provide Tax
Abatement for the tax years comprising the Tax Abatement Benefit Term, with the first such tax
year occurring in the year following the first year of the Tax Abatement Compliance Term. In
other words, the degree to which the recipient meets the commitments set forth in the Tax
Abatement Agreement will determine the percentage of taxes abated for the following tax year.
The City will continue to review the recipient's compliance with the terms and conditions of the
Tax Abatement Agreement for each subsequent calendar year, which findings will inform the
percentage of taxes abated for the following tax year, until expiration of the Tax Abatement
Agreement.
13.3. Delegated Authoritv for Certain Amendments.
Except as otherwise reserved to the City Council in a Tax Abatement Agreement, a Mayor
and Council Communication (M&C) authorizing a Tax Abatement Agreement, or any other
action required to be taken by the City Council by law, City rule or regulation, or this Policy, the
City Manager may amend a Tax Abatement Agreement for the following purposes without
further action by the City Council:
• Extension of any deadline for a period of up to one year;
• Amendment of a minimum Investment commitment; provided that the difference
does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the minimum Investment commitment
authorized by the City Council and specified in the Tax Abatement Agreement;
• Amendment of a minimum employment commitment; provided that the
difference does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the minimum employment
commitment authorized by the City Council and specified in the Tax Abatement
Agreement; or
• Amendment of a minimum average annual salary commitment; provided that the
difference does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the minimum average annual
salary commitment authorized by the City Council and specified in the Tax
Abatement Agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing and except as otherwise expressly authorized by the City Council,
any amendment to a Tax Abatement Agreement authorized by the City Manager pursuant to this
Section 13.3. must comply with the applicable minimum eligibility requirements of this Policy.
Nothing in this Section 13.3. obligates the City Manager to authorize any amendment of a Tax
Abatement Agreement and any requests for amendments pursuant to this Section 13.3. will be
considered on a case -by -case basis. The City Manager will report timely to the City Council
when this authority is exercised.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 8 of 18
14. TAX ABATEMENT APPLICATION PROCEDURES
The City will process each Tax Abatement application in accordance with the following
standards and procedures:
14.1. Submission of Application
If a given project qualifies for a Tax Abatement pursuant to this Policy, an applicant for
a Tax Abatement must complete and submit a City Tax Abatement Application ("Application").
An Application can be obtained from, and must be submitted to, the City's Economic
Development Department ("Department"). In order to be complete, the Application must
include documentation evidencing no delinquent property taxes due for the subject property. In
addition, projects that include, in whole or in part, the renovation of one or more existing
structures must provide, as part of the Application, a detailed description and the estimated costs
of the proposed renovations.
14.2. Application Fee
An applicant must pay a non-refundable Application fee of $2,500 ("Application Fee")
prior to final approval of the Tax Abatement Agreement by City Council.
14.3. Application Review and Evaluation
The Department will review an Application for accuracy and completeness. Once
complete, the Department will evaluate an Application based on the proposed merit and value of
the project, including the guidelines and criteria established by this Policy, which include,
without limitation, the following:
• Types and number of new jobs created, including: respective Salaries and employee
benefits packages, such as health insurance, day care provisions, retirement packages,
transportation assistance, employer -sponsored training and education, any other benefits
and whether all benefits are offered on an equal and non-discriminatory basis to all
employees;
• Percentage of Capital Investment committed to local companies, including BEFs;
• Financial viability of the project;
• The reasonably projected increase in the value of the tax base;
• Costs to the City (such as infrastructure participation, etc.);
• Remediation of an existing environmental problem on the real property;
• Type of industry and activities associated at the project site;
• If the company is foreign owned and/or includes Capital Investment sources from outside
the United States; and
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 9 of 18
• Any other items that the City may determine to be relevant with respect to the project.
14.4. Consideration by the Citv Council
The City Council retains sole authority to approve or deny any Tax Abatement Agreement and
is under no obligation to approve any Application or Tax Abatement Agreement.
15. GENERAL POLICIES AND REOUIREMENTS
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the following general terms and conditions
govern this Policy:
15.1. The City will not grant a Tax Abatement for any project in which a building permit
application has been filed with the City's Planning and Development Department. In addition,
the City will not abate taxes on the value of real or Tangible Personal Property for any period of
time prior to the year of execution of a Tax Abatement Agreement with the City.
15.2. The applicant for a Tax Abatement must provide evidence to the City that demonstrates
that a Tax Abatement is necessary for the financial viability of the proposed project.
15.3. The City will not abate taxes levied on inventory, supplies, or the existing tax base.
15.4. An applicant for a Tax Abatement must provide Salary and employee benefit information
for all positions of employment to be located in any facility covered by the Application as well
as a copy of the applicant's written non-discrimination policy applicable to the applicant's
employees.
15.5. Unless otherwise specified in the Tax Abatement Agreement, the amount of real property
taxes to be abated in a given year shall not exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the amount
of the minimum Capital Investment expenditure required by the Tax Abatement Agreement for
improvements to the real property subject to Tax Abatement multiplied by the City's tax rate in
effect for that same year, and the amount of Business Personal Property taxes to be abated in a
given year shall not exceed one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the minimum value of Business
Personal Property required by the Tax Abatement Agreement to be located on the real property,
if any, subject to Tax Abatement multiplied by the City's tax rate in effect for that same year.
15.6. The owner of real property and/or Business Personal Property for which a Tax Abatement
has been granted must properly maintain the property to assure the long-term economic viability
of the project.
15.7. As part of the consideration for any Tax Abatement, the City will have the right to (i)
review and verify the applicant's financial statements and records related to the project and the
Tax Abatement in each year during the term of the Tax Abatement Agreement prior to the
granting of a Tax Abatement in any given year and (ii) conduct an on -site inspection of the project
in each year during the term of the Tax Abatement to verify compliance with the terms and
conditions of the Tax Abatement Agreement. Any incidents of non-compliance will be reported
to all taxing units with jurisdiction over the real property subject to a Tax Abatement. Similarly,
the City will have the right to require and review documentation providing evidence of project
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 10 of
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funding commitments, including but not limited to direct equity participation by the proposed
recipient, in advance of a determination relating to the offer or approval of a Tax Abatement.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 11 of
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EXHIBIT "A"
DEFINITIONS
Capitalized terms used in this Policy but not defined elsewhere shall have the following
meanings:
Abatement or Tax Abatement — An abatement of a specified percentage of the City's incremental ad
valorem real property taxes on any improvements located on the subject property (calculated as of
January 1 of the year in which the Tax Abatement Agreement is executed) and of the City's incremental
ad valorem tax on Business Personal Property.
Abatement Benefit Term — The period of time specified in a Tax Abatement Agreement, but not to
exceed ten (10) years, that the recipient of a Tax Abatement may receive the Abatement.
Abatement Compliance Term — The period of time specified in a Tax Abatement Agreement during
which the recipient of a Tax Abatement must comply with the provisions and conditions of the Tax
Abatement Agreement and file an annual report with the City that outlines and documents the recipient's
compliance with such provisions and conditions.
Business Personal Property — Any taxable tangible personal property other than inventory and supplies
that (i) is subject to ad valorem taxation by the City; (ii) is located on the property subject to a Tax
Abatement Agreement; (iii) is owned or leased by the party to the Tax Abatement Agreement; and (iv)
was not located in the City prior to the year in which the Tax Abatement Agreement was executed.
Capital Investment — Expenditures for real property improvements such as, without limitation, new
facilities and structures, site improvements, infrastructure improvements, facility expansion, facility
modernization, and utility installation. Capital Investment does NOT include land acquisition costs or
the cost or value of any improvements existing on the property prior to the City Council's authorization
of execution of a Tax Abatement Agreement.
Catalytic Development — A development that meets the prerequisites set forth in Section 8.
Central Business District — A geographic area within the City, also referenced as Downtown, as defined
in the City's Comprehensive Plan.
Comprehensive Plan — The City's official guide for making decisions about growth and development,
which includes a summary of the goals, objectives, policies, strategies, programs, and projects that will
enable the City to achieve its mission of focusing on the future, working together to build strong
neighborhoods, develop a sound economy, and provide a safe community.
Designated Investment Zone — The geographic area within the City containing those census tracts (i)
that are eligible for community development block grants (CDBG), as defined and determined by the
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), meaning that fifty-one percent
(51 %) or more of residents have low to moderate incomes and (ii) those census tracts that have a poverty
rate of 20% of higher, as shown in the map of Exhibit `B" of this Policy.
Existing Business — A business that was legally operating within the corporate boundaries of the City
prior to the effective date of this Policy.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 12 of
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Fort Worth Resident — An individual whose primary residence is located in the corporate boundaries
of the City.
Fort Worth Target Area — A geographic area as more specifically illustrated in Exhibit "B" that is
located either within the corporate boundaries of the City of Fort Worth or its extraterritorial jurisdiction
and that is identified for the specific purpose of prioritizing or otherwise guiding the proposed location
of certain economic development projects or programs, for communicating industry or economic trends,
growth patterns, and site or market characteristics, and for purposes of reference in relation to economic
development policy or strategy. Fort Worth Target Areas are at all times inclusive of duly designated
Revitalization Target Areas, Innovation Districts, Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones, and Public
Improvement Districts. Also designated as Fort Worth Target Areas are Target Industry Growth Centers,
which are areas that are generally suited for supporting near or long-term growth in one or more Target
Sector across multiple sites with similar characteristics, and Strategic Development Areas, which are
areas suited for high -value mixed -use development of the kind that can be expected to promote citywide
or regional economic growth or activity. Although not depicted in Exhibit "E," Strategic Development
Areas also generally include developable properties that are located within a one -quarter mile distance
of the Trinity River, Benbrook Lake, Lake Arlington, or Lake Worth.
Innovation District — Geographic areas where leading -edge anchor institutions and companies cluster
and connect with start-ups, business incubators, and accelerators that are physically compact, transit -
accessible, and technically -wired, and offer mixed -use housing, office, and retail.
Investment — The aggregate of Capital Investment and Business Personal Property.
Mega Project — A project meeting the prerequisites set forth in Section 6.
Mixed -Use Development Project — A development project in which a facility or facilities will be
constructed or renovated such that (i) at least twenty percent (20%) of the total gross floor area will be
used as residential space and (ii) at least ten percent (10%) of the total gross floor area will be used for
office, restaurant, entertainment and/or retail sales and service space. In the event that all or any portion
of the residential space is rental (i.e., apartments), there must be at least fifty (50) units.
Reinvestment Zone — An area designated by the City as a Tax Abatement reinvestment zone in
accordance with Chapter 312 of the Texas Tax Code.
Salary — A cash payment or remuneration made to a full-time employee, including paid time off,
commissions, and non -discretionary bonuses. A Salary does not include any benefits, such as health
insurance or retirement contributions by the employer, reimbursements for employee expenses, or any
discretionary bonuses.
Target Industry — A business providing services in the sectors specifically identified in Section 4.
Tax Abatement Agreement — A written agreement that the recipient of a Tax Abatement must enter
into with the City that outlines the specific terms and conditions pertaining to and governing the Tax
Abatement.
Technology Company — A company working in an industry with a high concentrations of workers in
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) occupations, including, but not limited to,
design, prototype development and testing, preliminary manufacturing and product marketing.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 13 of
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Transit Oriented Development — A Mixed -Use Development located within one-half mile of a
commuter rail line station and in which all buildings will be at least 3 stories in height.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 14 of
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EXHIBIT "B"
DESIGNATED INVESTMENT ZONES
Copyright 2020 City of Fort Worth. Unauthorized reproduction is a violation of applicable laws. This products of
for informational purposes and may not have been prepared for or be suitable for legal, engineering, or
surveying purposes. It does not represent an on -the -ground survey and represents on the approximate relative
location of prdperry aounaanes. The City of Fort Worth assumes no resporlslouriy for ine accuracy of said data.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 15 of
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EXHIBIT "C"
URBAN VILLAGES
Copyright 2020 City of Fort Worth. Unauthorized reproduction is a violation of applicable laws. This products of
for informational purposes and may not have been prepared for or be suitable for legal, engaltering, or
surveying purposes. It does not represent an on -the -ground survey and represents on the approximate relative
location of property boundaries. The City of Fort Worth assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of said data.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 16 of
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Exhibit "D"
REVITALIZATION TARGET AREAS
aso
Revitalization Target Areas
R-vvas T.,y t n —
Revitalization Neighborhoods
C. A t-- rW �kGR
Cm+o
C E.s[ Reny
— E.A lancws[x
�. Hirtwic Nmdley
Hirtwic Wth.&
Hirtrnic Sw &-ie
P.NLLd Heim
C Rivetsde E.rt
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Wert Camp Bowie
W..ff n
COPYRIGHT 2025 CRY OF FORT WORTH UNAUTHORIZED REPRODUCTION IS A VIOLATION OF APPLICABLE LAWS. THIS DATA IS TO BE USE FOR GRAPHICAL
, . ONLY. THE ACCURACY 15 NOT TO BE TAKEN / USEDAS DATA PRODUCED FOR ENGINEERING PURP05ES OR BY A REGISTERED
PROFFS.STONAI I AND 511RVFYOR. THE CITY OF FORT WORTH A49IMF5 � „ . i 1, - RY R)R THE A( ('I IRACY OF SAID DATA.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 17 of
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Exhibit "E"
FORT WORTH TARGET AREAS
I
■
Revitalization Target Areas (RTAs)
■
Strategic Development Areas (SDAs) Target Industry Growth Centers (TIGCs)
■
Innovation Districts
■
TIFs and PIDs
Copyright 2025 City of Fort Worth. Unauthorized reproduction is a violation of applicable laws. This product is for informational purposes and may not have been prepared for, or be
suitable for legal purposes. It does not represent an on -the -ground survey and represents the approximate relative location of boundaries. The City of Fort Worth assumes no
responsibility for the accuracy of said data.
City of Fort Worth General Tax Abatement Policy Page 18 of
18