IN THIS ISSUE:

Greetings from Judge O'Hare
Tarrant County Maximizes Homestead Exemptions
Judge O'Hare Hosts Inaugural Tarrant County National Day of Prayer Luncheon
Combating Human Trafficking: Spotlight on Tarrant County Sheriff's Office

Greetings from Judge O'Hare

Hello, Tarrant County

It is truly an honor and privilege to serve as your County Judge.

As summer unfolds, I hope this letter finds you and your families well. With school out and vacations underway, I wanted to take a moment to wish each of you a joyous and hopefully cool summer.

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Brian Byrd as our new Public Health Director. Dr. Byrd brings a wealth of experience and dedication to this role, and we are confident in his abilities as we navigate current and future public health challenges.

The annual Senior Synergy Expo, traditionally hosted by the County Judge's Office is combining with Commissioner Gary Fickes’ Senior Expo to host the Empowering Seniors Expo. Scheduled for August 29th, this combined effort aims to provide our seniors with a wealth of resources and support aimed at enhancing their well-being and health. This free to attend event is made possible through generous donations from organizations that serve our community and senior population. Registration is now open. I encourage all seniors and their caregivers to participate and benefit from the various resources provided at this event.

Tarrant County has entered into our budget cycle, where we continue to find innovative ways to save taxpayers money and deliver essential services. We are working diligently to do more with less and prioritize spending cuts. I remain committed to supporting tax rates that are below the No-New-Revenue-Rate and will commit to finding solutions that work to achieve that as we work to prepare for the next fiscal year.

This Fourth of July, let freedom ring in our hearts as we commemorate the birthday of our nation, and rejoice in the company of family and friends. May your Independence Day be filled with memorable festivities and gatherings as we embrace the blessings of living in the greatest county, in the greatest state, in the greatest county on earth. Happy Independence Day!

Warm regards,

Tarrant County Maximizes Homestead Exemptions

On June 18, 2024, Tarrant County approved a monumental step in providing much-needed property tax relief. The Commissioners Court approved Homestead Exemptions that will reduce property taxes for homeowners across the county.

Last year, the court took a crucial first step by passing 10% Homestead Exemptions for both Tarrant County and the Hospital District. Building on this progress, the Commissioners Court has voted to increase these exemptions to the maximum allowable under state law—20% for both taxing entities. This decision marks a historic first for Tarrant County and underscores a commitment to alleviating the burden of rising property taxes and increases in the cost of living.

In addition to maximizing Homestead Exemptions, last year the Commissioners Court set tax rates below the No New Revenue Rate. As we approach the upcoming budget cycle, I remain dedicated to scrutinizing how tax dollars are spent and maintaining fiscal restraint. Careful spending allows us to pass tax relief measures while continuing to invest in the future of Tarrant County.

In challenging times, including the significant inflation we are experiencing, every dollar counts for the households of Tarrant County. Passing Homestead Exemptions demonstrates my commitment to putting more money back in your pockets.

Judge O'Hare Hosts Inaugural

Tarrant County National Day of Prayer Luncheon

On May 2, 2024, our Office had the honor of hosting the first annual Tarrant County National Day of Prayer Luncheon, an event that we plan to make an annual tradition. The gathering, held at the Bowden in Keller, was a testament to our county’s commitment to prayer.

This luncheon served as an exciting moment for Tarrant County, bringing together faith and fellowship in a meaningful way. The theme for this inaugural event, "Lift up the Word, Light up the World," was drawn from 2 Samuel 22:29-31, and resonated with attendees who gathered to offer prayers for our nation, community, churches, businesses, families, and more.

The Luncheon featured Keynote Speaker Cliff Harris, a true icon of the Dallas Cowboys and a Pro Football Hall of Famer. Known for his exceptional career that included five Super Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl wins with the Cowboys, Harris captivated the audience with insights from his journey on the field and as well as his inspirational faith. Brian Estridge, renowned voice of the TCU Horned Frogs and former WBAP morning show host served as the Emcee.

The Tarrant County National Day of Prayer Luncheon was made possible by the attendees' support through the purchase of plated lunch tickets, while costs were kept low thanks to generous sponsorships from numerous churches, businesses, and organizations across Tarrant County. The proceeds from the Luncheon benefited Embrace Grace and Mission Arlington, two faith-based charities dedicated to supporting individuals and families in our community.

Beyond this Luncheon, several churches and cities throughout Tarrant County hosted their own events, offering multiple opportunities for residents to engage in the National Day of Prayer. These gatherings spanned the county, providing platforms to pray and unite with others.

Combating Human Trafficking:

Spotlight on Tarrant County Sheriff's Office

Initiated by Sheriff Bill Waybourn in 2017, the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office Human Trafficking Unit has quickly become a national leader in fighting exploitation and online crimes targeting children. The Unit includes dedicated professionals who are part of the Tarrant County Human Trafficking Task Force, the North Texas Trafficking Task Force, and the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, applying a collaborative and victim-centered approach to address these critical issues. Commander Kevin Turner serves as the Coordinator for the Unit.

Throughout the past year, the Human Trafficking Unit has collaborated in investigating over 200 cases involving online child exploitation and human trafficking. These efforts have resulted in the apprehension of more than 140 individuals involved in these crimes, while also setting forth crucial support to over 40 victims identified as at-risk or already exploited.

The Unit’s participation in the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force is critical, as the ICAC focuses on combating online crimes against minors, including the distribution and production of child sexual abuse material and online solicitation.

Underpinning these efforts is a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals in our community and holding perpetrators accountable. The Human Trafficking Unit's dedication and effectiveness highlight the importance of collaboration and proactive law enforcement strategies in addressing the complex challenges posed by human trafficking and online exploitation.

The Tarrant County Sheriff's Office Human Trafficking Unit continues to set a standard for excellence in law enforcement, demonstrating the profound impact of unified efforts in protecting our community and pursuing justice. We appreciate Sheriff Bill Waybourn’s leadership to protect women and children from human trafficking.