Haltom City Faces Population Decline Amidst Neighboring Growth, Leaders Propose Solutions

Haltom City, nestled between Dallas and Fort Worth, is witnessing a notable population decrease, with a 2.03% drop since the 2020 census, now totaling 45,051 residents. This decline contrasts sharply with the rapid expansion of nearby cities such as Fort Worth, which is adding approximately 1,000 new residents daily. The situation has spurred local leaders and business advocates to identify causes and suggest measures to rejuvenate the city's older sectors.

Ron Sturgeon, founder of www.makehaltomcitytriveagain.com, points to the city's preferential development of the newer north side as a factor neglecting the older south and central regions. Sturgeon criticizes the lack of a comprehensive plan for these areas, emphasizing the need to attract small businesses to main corridors to halt the population decline.

Joe Palmer, Communications Director for the Haltom United Business Alliance (HUBA), shares concerns over the city's zoning regulations, which he believes stifle small business growth. Palmer advocates for revising the 'use matrix' to foster startups and revitalization efforts. Both Sturgeon and Palmer highlight the potential of easing parking regulations to encourage the redevelopment of older buildings, a move that could make Haltom City more attractive to entrepreneurs.

The proposed solutions aim not only to draw new businesses and residents but also to alleviate the tax burden on current inhabitants and bolster city infrastructure and services. By addressing these challenges, Haltom City could reverse its population trend and secure a more dynamic and thriving future.