Gus Garcia and Marty (Office of Economic Development) briefed the council on Jan. 7 about a proposed formal foreign direct investment strategy to attract overseas companies that might locate or expand in Arlington.

Gus Garcia described foreign direct investment as foreign companies investing in the U.S. through new facilities (greenfield) or redevelopment (brownfield). The presentation tied the proposal to the city's TIP Strategies plan and said the strategy would prioritize technology, manufacturing and aerospace sectors. Staff said Texas has led the U.S. in FDI and that the DFW market is a primary attractor; they argued Arlington could better position itself by formalizing an administrative blueprint with key performance indicators and coordination among the city, EDC, Chamber, CVB and UT Arlington.

Staff said proposed elements include asset mapping, a 'soft landing' program (real estate and data support), workforce partnerships with UT Arlington and Tarrant County College, and a staff position to coordinate with the governor's office and regional partners. Council members asked questions and were advised staff already conducts many elements of this work; the proposal would formalize and focus effort with measurable targets. Staff noted near-term opportunities to leverage major events (FIFA 2026, Grand Prix) and to align incentives that the state and region are promoting.

Council took no formal vote but supported further development of a formal strategy and asked staff to return with a more detailed plan and performance measures.