City of Dallas staff members funded by the general fund are required to take unpaid leave days beginning July 1 to help address a financial deficit. The mandate applies to non-uniform employees, who must work three days without pay before September. These days will be recorded as leave without pay, and staff cannot use sick leave, vacation time, or compensatory time to cover the absence.
Executives at or above the assistant director level in general fund and internal service departments face an additional requirement. These officials must take two more floating furlough days before September 16. Dallas is about 31 miles east of Fort Worth.
Mayor Eric Johnson stated in a news release that city revenue this year has not met projections, leading to a tighter budget than expected. He noted that he has pushed for significant spending reductions since taking office but received little support from the City Council.
City officials implemented other budget reduction strategies in April, including a selective hiring freeze, elimination of overtime, and suspension of non-essential travel. Despite these measures, the city reports that general fund expenses continue to exceed revenue.
Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert described the furloughs as necessary to reduce expenses, protect jobs and health benefits, and maintain services. She added that the steps aim to position the city responsibly for the upcoming FY27 and FY28 biennial budget.
Councilmember Adam Bazaldua expressed disappointment in the announcement process. He stated he learned of the furloughs through media correspondence rather than direct conversations with council members, which prevented feedback from influencing the decision. Bazaldua also noted he does not view furloughs as a sustainable cost-saving method.
