Dallas Voters to Face Confusing Pair of Propositions
Residents will encounter two separate ballot measures both labeled Proposition A in the November 3, 2026 election.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in City Hall
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Dallas voters heading to the polls for the November 3, 2026 election will face two distinct ballot initiatives both titled Proposition A. One measure proposes a county property tax hike, while the other requests city bond authorization for public safety.
Why it matters
The overlapping naming convention may cause confusion for voters deciding between a homelessness funding initiative and a multi-project bond package. These measures represent significant choices regarding local taxation and infrastructure investment in Dallas.
Dallas County proposes a tax rate of $0.248650 per $100 of valuation to generate $102.9 million for homelessness services. Meanwhile, the city's $443 million bond includes funding for a police training center and evidence storage facilities.
The players
Clay Jenkins
He serves as the Dallas County Judge and recently held a news conference to discuss the proposed property tax increase for homelessness programs.
Housing Forward
This organization estimates the proposed county funding would help 4,500 households exit homelessness each year.
Dallas Police Department
The department faces facility challenges, with its current evidence warehouse projected to reach 120% capacity.
The details
The city bond initiative consolidates five public safety projects, including a $149 million public safety training complex and $150 million for crime lab and storage facilities, to be repaid over 20 years. The county proposal aims to support 4,500 households annually in exiting homelessness through mental health and support services.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins held a news conference.
October 30, 2026: The early voting period concludes.
November 3, 2026: Midterm Election Day.
Political Context
This measure marks a significant expansion of the City of Dallas general obligation bond program, drawing pushback from taxpayer advocacy groups concerned about the total $629.6 million debt burden. Opponents argue that consolidating multiple large projects into a single ballot item limits voter ability to weigh individual priorities.
If approved, the county tax measure would directly increase the property tax burden for residents at a rate of $0.248650 per $100 of value. Conversely, the city bond passage would authorize long-term debt to fund public safety facilities that are currently operating beyond their intended capacity.
The takeaway
Voters should carefully distinguish between the two distinct Proposition A measures by checking their specific ballot instructions. Understanding whether your vote applies to the county homelessness tax or the city safety bond is essential for local fiscal participation.
Further reading
For more information on local governance, visit the City Hall section.
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Should your local government increase taxes or issue bonds to fund new public service projects?
