Farmers Branch staff recommends review, cost-benefit analysis before expanding sister-city ties

Darren Harris, deputy director of economic development, briefed the council on the status and potential expansion of the City of Farmers Branch—s sister-city program and recommended a formal review and cost-benefit analysis before establishing new relationships.

Harris said the program has been stalled since 2020 and that the city has $20,000 allocated in the FY25—26 budget for sister-city activities. He reviewed historical costs staff identified during the research: hosting delegations, travel abroad and annual dues. Harris explained staff also reviewed program criteria used by other cities and suggested staff would seek mutual agreements signed by the highest elected officials before forming any new sister-city relationships.

During the presentation Harris described commonalities with existing partners (cultural and educational exchanges, local schools and business ties) and said staff has examined Mexico and South Korea as possible expansion candidates. He said additional research would be provided on cultural, trade and community ties and on estimated costs for visits and events.

Councilmembers asked for a written cost analysis before any expansion. Several members said ties with Mexico or South Korea could provide cultural connections given local demographics and business activity, while others urged a more strategic approach that prioritized measurable economic or business benefits. Councilmember Neal recommended involving additional elected officials whose districts overlap the city when pursuing federal-level support for expansion.

Harris said next steps are to prepare a formal cost-benefit analysis and to propose reactivation steps, including selection of liaisons and a defined budget for travel and exchanges. No formal action or vote was taken at the study session.