From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 1m
Dallas Police Short 590 Officers
Dallas starts fiscal year with 3,410 sworn officers, 590 short of 4,000 required by voter-approved charter.
In brief
Dallas starts fiscal year with 3,410 sworn officers, 590 short of 4,000 required by voter-approved charter. Dallas remains 590 officers below the 4,000 target set by Proposition U despite increased spending. Originally reported by Dallas Express.
Prop U Approved
Dallas voters approved Proposition U in November 2024, requiring 4,000 sworn police officers by city charter.
“Dallas voters narrowly approved Proposition U on November 5, 2024, with 50.43% voting in favor and 49.57% opposed.”
Current Staffing
Dallas Police Department reports 3,410 sworn officers, 590 short of the 4,000 target.
“The Dallas Police Department told The Dallas Express this month that it employed 3,410 sworn officers.”
Budget Goal
New budget targets 3,651 officers by end of fiscal year 2027, still 349 short of 4,000.
“Dallas City Council approved an approximately $5.7 billion fiscal year 2026-27 budget on September 16.”
Fiscal Year Start
New fiscal year begins October 1 with ongoing staffing shortfall.
“The new fiscal year begins October 1.”
Legal Challenge
Texas Attorney General sued Dallas over alleged underestimation of revenue for Proposition U.
“Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the City of Dallas, City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert and Chief Financial Officer Jack Ireland in February.”
Staffing Progress
Dallas added 100 officers since last fiscal year but remains 200 short of 4,000 by 2028.
“The city projects 3,800 sworn officers by the end of FY2028.”
Budget Focus
Police spending increases by $65 million from FY2026 to FY2027.
“Dallas plans to spend more than $823 million from the General Fund on police in FY2027.”
Council Warning
City Council member warns of legal risks if staffing targets remain unmet.
“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.”
What to remember
Dallas remains 590 officers below the 4,000 target set by Proposition U despite increased spending.
