New Year’s Message: Open letter to City of Fate residents from Mayor David Billings

New Year’s Message: Open letter to City of Fate residents from Mayor David Billings

FATE, TX (Jan. 2, 2024) Happy New Year!

We live in an extraordinary city, and I am grateful to serve as the Mayor of this great community. Our growth and the implementation of our unique economic development strategy continue to define us.

Our city boasts a robust team that consistently demonstrates an esprit de corps comparable to the best cities in our state. I hold deep affection for all my neighbors, friends, and Fate family.

I would like to highlight a few accomplishments of our incredible city team, guided and supported by your excellent City Council.

City Budget:

We have maintained one of the lowest city tax rates in North Texas, reaching the lowest rate our city has had in eight years. Additionally, an over-65 tax limitation was approved. The state legislature has granted over 20% in total property tax reductions for homeowners claiming a homestead exemption. We are truly blessed!

Economic Development:

In 2024, we anticipate unparalleled commercial development, welcoming new restaurants and stores. Both conventional development along the I-30 corridor and unique projects in our award-winning downtown will continue. Economic development focus work in our downtown has enabled two new downtown mixed-use buildings, “The Park” and “Fate Place.” These will bring new quality small commercial amenities. The expansion of Fate Village will further diversify our tax base. Indeed, we are blessed to make the dreams of our fellow neighbors a reality.

Public Safety:

Our Fate DPS team is extraordinary. Ensuring resident safety remains our top priority. We are increasing the pay of our DPS officers, enlarging the force, providing them with new equipment, and maintaining one of the lowest crime rates in the region. We are blessed!

I extend my gratitude to your City Council and appointed boards for their public service, making Fate a great place to live and work.

As I have emphasized before, we are a family. While we may have our disputes, we work together to find the right solutions for our city. Are we perfect? No. However, we strive every day to make Fate an excellent place to work, live, learn, and play.

As we conclude another Christmas season, take time to enjoy your families. Though challenges await us in 2024, let’s take a moment to rejoice in our successes and embrace our loved ones.

As our Lord reminds us: ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.’ – Proverbs 3:5-6″

May God bless our great city and each of your families. May the New Year bring you and your loved ones joy, love, and happiness.

In Service –

By David Billings, Mayor, City of Fate