North Richland Hills · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in North Richland Hills public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
November 2026 Bond Election
The city is rolling out multi-channel outreach, including videos and postcards, to inform residents about the $145.97 million bond propositions on the November 3 ballot. The bond covers fire station rebuilds, street repairs, city services complex improvements, and library expansion.
Smithfield Terrace Preliminary Plat
Sandlin Homes wants to build 35 single-family homes on 7.4 acres at Smithfield Road and Hewitt Street. Neighbors turned out in droves to oppose it, warning that the smaller lot sizes, increased traffic, and stormwater runoff will destroy their quiet, semi-rural neighborhood feel.
Local Drainage and Stormwater Runoff
The city authorized eminent domain to acquire necessary drainage and construction easements to mitigate severe floodplain issues around Pebble Court.
FY 2027 Crime Control and Prevention District Budget
The Crime Control and Prevention District board reviewed and approved the proposed $10.7 million budget for fiscal year 2027, funded largely through sales tax. The budget adds three new campus police officers and a new supervisory sergeant in partnership with Birdville ISD.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
Council adopted the new city budget, focusing on core services like public safety and street maintenance while keeping tax increases moderate.
Meadery Special Development Plan
Get ready, North Richland Hills! A huge $59 million mixed-use development is coming, bringing tons of new shops and housing. This could really shake up the neighborhood.
Tax Year 2026 Property Tax Rate
City staff presented early property valuation estimates from Tarrant County, showing a small 1.5% increase and discussing how ongoing appraisal protests and exemptions will impact the upcoming city budget.
Data Center Zoning and Regulation
Residents voiced major concerns about noise, power grid strain, water usage, and infrasound from data centers. The commission responded by recommending that all data centers go through a strict special use permit process rather than being allowed by right.
Sandlin Homes Residential Infill Zoning Request (ZC26-0160)
Sandlin Homes proposed a 33-home subdivision on 7.494 acres at Smithfield Road and Hewitt Street. Residents overwhelmingly opposed the project due to high density, narrow lot sizes, and lack of neighborhood compatibility.
2025 General Obligation Bond Program Recommendations
The advisory committee is evaluating potential bond program sizes ranging from $116.88 million with no tax increase to $135.3 million with an estimated 2-cent property tax rate increase to fund critical infrastructure such as fire stations, streets, and library expansions.
2026 General Obligation Bond Package Recommendations
Board members were scheduled to receive an update on planning and developments for the upcoming 2026 Bond Election.
May 2, 2026 General Election
The city called the upcoming general election for May 2, 2026, to elect a mayor and council members for Places 2, 4, and 6 under newly established three-year terms.
Tennis Center Lighting Upgrades
Heads up, North Richland Hills! Your outdoor warning sirens are getting a serious upgrade. They're moving some to better spots and making sure they're louder, so you'll actually hear those severe weather alerts when it counts.