Nat Ford Begins as DART CEO Amid Subpoenas as Voters Weigh Local Ballot Measures

Following his incoming DART CEO arrival, Nathaniel "Nat" Ford has officially begun his tenure as president and CEO of DART, according to reports from CBS News, FOX 4 News Dallas-Fort Worth and Action News Jax. Dallas Weekly reported that Ford is starting as DART chief with a focus on riders, while CultureMap Dallas noted that the transit agency will offer free rides to voters around Dallas on Election Day.

Ford's first days on the job come amid ongoing DART leadership scrutiny tied to his previous role at JTA, his former transit agency. NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth and CBS News reported that Ford is taking over during an active investigation into Florida spending at the agency. According to KERA News Breakthroughs, a former colleague alleged that Ford covered up money issues at the prior transportation agency. Coral Springs News reported that a council is keeping a subpoena in place for Ford as a rating agency dings JTA's grade, and the Dallas Observer noted that suburban board representatives and the mayor of Addison have weighed in as the new DART CEO faces subpoenas. According to Dallas News, Ford responded to the Florida investigation during his first Dallas address, and NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth reported that the DART board chair is standing by the hiring of Ford.

Across North Texas, residents are weighing the $443 million bond and county tax measure during the current election cycle. CBS News reported that Dallas voters may see two different Proposition A measures on their ballots. According to Texas Metro News and Texas Scorecard, Dallas voters are deciding on a $443 million public-safety bond package that bundles five projects into one vote, sparking debate over whether the measure represents a public safety investment or a "blank check." Dallas Express reported that the city's consideration of police training center funding comes as a staffing gap tied to Proposition U persists. Elsewhere in the region, KERA reported that Dallas County candidates are sounding off on a homelessness tax, People Newspapers highlighted November ballot items in the Park Cities and Preston Hollow, and NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth reported that Plano voters are questioning a tax election for Dallas Stars arena funding during early voting.

Meanwhile, municipal governance and finances remain under discussion at Dallas City Hall. KERA reported that Dallas still has not received reimbursement for the Republican midterm convention, a delay described in the report as "absolutely ridiculous." According to Texas Metro News, council members also recently discussed jail costs and hospital delays. At the same time, Dallas News reported that Dallas City Hall is facing a growing revolt over who gets to shape the city, alongside a column by Cothrum urging the Dallas City Council to stop making residents wait for public hearings.