Flower Mound is considering a May 2027 bond election for a proposed $75 million Arts Center and a new police headquarters estimated to cost around $100 million.
Council members discussed financing options Oct. 19. Staff are expected to return Nov. 19 with more detailed costs and funding scenarios before the council determines how to proceed.
The projects carry different potential tax consequences. Town Manager James Childers said River Walk Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone revenue could support Arts Center construction without increasing the town’s tax rate. The zone also receives contributions from Denton County, according to the Cross Timbers Gazette.
Operating the center presents a separate challenge. Hiring employees and paying ongoing expenses would put pressure on the town’s budget, Childers said. Under a debt-financing scenario, he warned that the town could face substantial spending cuts or a tax-rate election in November 2027.
Such an election would seek permission to exceed the town’s calculated voter-approval tax rate. Texas generally limits growth in operating-tax revenue without voter approval, with debt service and other adjustments included in the calculation.
Mayor Pro Tem Adam Schiestel said he supports the Arts Center but wants residents to understand its operating costs before the town commits to construction.
Childers also cautioned that postponement could increase the project’s price or reduce what the town could build for $75 million.
Police headquarters would replace converted grocery store
Childers estimated that a new police headquarters could require a tax-rate increase of about four cents per $100 of taxable assessed value. The building’s final scope, cost and financing have not been settled.
The town has purchased nearly 20 acres at 2311 Aberdeen Drive, near FM 2499, for future police, municipal court and fire facilities, according to its public safety facilities page.
Police currently work from a former Food Lion at 4150 Kirkpatrick Lane. The town agreed to purchase the vacant grocery store in November 1997, and the converted station received its certificate of occupancy in July 2000.
Despite several renovations, the department has outgrown the building. The town identifies limited parking, training space, employee storage and evidence-processing capacity among its challenges.
The Aberdeen property is also intended to accommodate a relocated Fire Station No. 3.
Election remains under consideration
No bond election has been called. The Gazette reported that officials discussed a January decision timeline for a potential May vote.
The general statutory deadline to order an election for May 1, 2027, is Feb. 12, under Texas election law.
Residents can provide feedback during public comment at council meetings or contact council members through the town’s website.
