F
ort Worth's development services process has seen improvements, but more work needs to be done, according to recent survey results. In 2023, the Real Estate Council of Greater Fort Worth proposed 10 key recommendations to improve the city's development processes, resulting in an action plan with the Development Services Department. The council estimated that communication and development issues delayed $1.4 million in taxable income and $600,000 in fees paid to the city during a standard 10-week development process.

    The survey results show significant progress since the first survey in early 2023, with 60% more participants stating that the recommendations are improving or have been resolved. Private developers and consultants report that the city is moving in the right direction on the 10 recommendations.

    Key highlights from the third survey include:

    * City manager-led development forums have fostered meaningful dialogue between city staff and developers.

    * Centralizing outside development staff under the Development Services Department has streamlined communication and decision-making.

    * Ongoing customer service training has improved interactions with developers, but deeper change is needed to adopt a problem-solving culture.

    Despite progress, survey participants identified areas where further action is needed:

    * Platting and infrastructure study costs are slow and costly for smaller projects.

    * The infrastructure plan review process requires more direct engagement via phone calls and web meetings.

    * Interdepartmental coordination issues persist due to lack of close coordination in certain areas between departments.

    * Employee overwork, burnout, and retention concerns need improved staff recognition and support.

    The city has made significant strides since the initiative began, with numerous private developers and consultants acknowledging these improvements.