Grand Prairie elections feature mayor race sales tax referendum and charter amendments

Grand Prairie residents are gearing up for a pivotal election on May 3, 2025, which will feature key races and important decisions that could shape the future of the city. Incumbent Mayor Ron Jensen is seeking re-election for another three-year term, facing challenger Ravi L. In District 2, Jacqueline Hedden is running unopposed for her next term, while District 4 sees a competitive three-way race among incumbent John Lopez, Marquetta Nemo, and Carlos Charley Garza.

A significant item on the ballot is a sales tax referendum that seeks to reauthorize a quarter-cent sales tax dedicated to street improvements. This tax, previously renewed in February 2017, has generated $81 million, funding the enhancement of over 121 streets, the repair of 64 miles of roadway, and the elimination of 1,355 standing water sites. If renewed for another eight years, the tax is projected to generate an estimated $96 million, allowing for continued street repairs without increasing the overall sales tax burden on residents. Failure to renew the tax would result in a reduction of the overall sales tax by a quarter cent, potentially limiting street repair capabilities to what the city's general fund can support.

Additionally, voters will consider two amendments to the city charter. Proposition B proposes the creation of a deputy mayor pro tem position, selected from among city council members, to step in when the mayor pro tem is unavailable. Proposition C aims to streamline the charter by removing redundancies and correcting typographical errors, ensuring alignment with state and federal laws.

Early voting will take place from April 22 to April 29, with election day voting scheduled from 7 AM to 7 PM. Residents can find more information about voting locations and procedures on the city’s website at gptx.org.

In a lighter community event, Lone Star Park is preparing for its annual national anthem auditions, inviting soloists and groups to showcase their talent ahead of the live horse racing season. With 85 candidates eager to perform, the auditions highlight the community's spirit and tradition, as track officials will select performers for the upcoming racing dates starting April 17.