Fort Worth Chamber convenes business and government leaders for a timely discussion on economic growth, public policy, and the priorities shaping our region.

As one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, Tarrant County continues to experience remarkable momentum. But with growth comes important decisions about infrastructure, workforce development, public safety, and the policies that will shape our economic future.

The Fort Worth Chamber's 2026 State of the County luncheon brought together business leaders, elected officials, and community partners to explore these priorities and hear directly from Tarrant County Judge Tim O'Hare about the opportunities and challenges facing the region.

As the leading voice for business in Fort Worth, the Chamber recognizes that a thriving business environment depends on strong relationships between the public and private sectors. Events like State of the County provide an important forum for fostering those connections, keeping the business community informed, and encouraging meaningful dialogue about the decisions that impact our region's competitiveness.

"The future of Tarrant County isn't something that happens to us. It's something we build together," said Fort Worth Chamber President and CEO Steve Montgomery in his opening remarks.

A Look at Tarrant County's Priorities

During his State of the County address, Judge O'Hare outlined four priorities guiding county leadership: lowering taxes and promoting responsible spending, supporting residents in need, creating a strong environment for job growth, and prioritizing public safety. 

On fiscal policy, Judge O'Hare highlighted the county's efforts to reduce property tax rates and improve government efficiency. According to his presentation, the combined tax rate for Tarrant County and JPS Health Network has decreased by 23.1%, while the county's operating budget has been reduced by $70 million over four years. 

Judge O'Hare also discussed improvements to the county's human services programs, including increased direct assistance for families, expanded mental health resources, and efforts to divert individuals experiencing mental health crises from the criminal justice system.

Turning to economic development, Judge O'Hare highlighted major investments across Tarrant County, including the expansion of DFW International Airport, new and growing corporate operations, healthcare infrastructure, and higher education facilities.

Among the developments discussed were Wistron's new U.S. smart factory in Fort Worth, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services' decision to establish its U.S. headquarters at Alliance, Coca-Cola's expansion, and continued investment in the Texas A&M-Fort Worth campus.

These projects reflect the economic opportunity throughout Tarrant County while reinforcing the importance of policies and infrastructure that allow businesses to invest, expand, and create jobs.

For the Chamber, understanding these developments is essential to effectively advocating for the needs of Fort Worth's business community. By connecting business leaders directly with local government, the Chamber helps ensure its members are informed about the policies, investments, and emerging issues that influence their operations and long-term planning.

Aligning Business Priorities with Regional Growth

In addition to the county update, Fort Worth Chamber Chairman of the Board Mike Micallef shared a look at the Chamber's evolving strategic priorities.

With the Board having approved the framework for the Chamber's next strategic plan, Micallef identified three areas of focus: talent and workforce development, advocacy, and small business support.

Each priority reflects a critical component of Fort Worth's long-term economic success.

As new employers enter the market and existing businesses expand, developing a strong talent pipeline will be essential. The Chamber is committed to strengthening partnerships among businesses, educational institutions, and workforce organizations to help meet the region's evolving workforce needs.

Advocacy will also remain central to the Chamber's work. With the 90th Texas Legislative Session approaching, the Chamber's Government Affairs Committee is developing a legislative agenda informed by member perspectives and focused on issues such as property taxes, energy reliability, water supply, transportation infrastructure, and workforce development.

Micallef also introduced Christie Goodman, the Chamber's new Vice President of Government Affairs, who will help lead these advocacy efforts.

Equally important is ensuring Fort Worth's small businesses have the resources, relationships, and support needed to succeed. These businesses are essential to the local economy, creating jobs, serving neighborhoods, and contributing to the character of the community.

Together, these priorities underscore the Chamber's role not only as an advocate for business but also as a convener that brings together the people and organizations needed to address shared challenges.

Recognizing Transformational Leadership: The Vandergriff Award

The luncheon also celebrated an organization making a lasting impact on Fort Worth's future.

Presented by BNSF Railway, the 2026 Vandergriff Award was awarded to Texas A&M-Fort Worth, recognizing its transformational investment in education, research, innovation, and workforce development.

Named in honor of the late Tom Vandergriff, whose visionary leadership helped shape Tarrant County, the award honors individuals and organizations that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to community progress.

Texas A&M-Fort Worth exemplifies that legacy by creating new opportunities for students, strengthening connections between higher education and industry, and helping prepare the skilled workforce needed to support the region's growing economy.

The recognition also highlighted a central theme of the luncheon: meaningful economic progress happens when business, education, and community leaders align around a shared vision.

As Fort Worth continues to attract investment and expand its economic footprint, partnerships like these will play an increasingly important role in ensuring the region has the talent and innovation necessary to remain competitive.

Bringing Business and Government Together

Beyond the updates and accomplishments shared throughout the program, the State of the County luncheon reinforced the value of informed, engaged business leadership.

Decisions made at the county level have direct implications for employers and employees alike. From transportation and public safety to taxes and essential services, local government plays a significant role in shaping the conditions in which businesses operate.

For that reason, the Chamber is committed to creating opportunities for its members to hear directly from public officials, better understand the issues facing the region, and engage in conversations that inform the future of Fort Worth.

The program concluded with a fireside conversation between Judge O'Hare and Brian Newby, providing an additional opportunity for dialogue about Tarrant County's direction.

As Montgomery emphasized in his remarks, growth alone does not guarantee success. Sustaining the region's momentum will require thoughtful collaboration, sound policy decisions, and continued investment in the businesses and people who call Tarrant County home.

By convening leaders across sectors, the Fort Worth Chamber helps strengthen the relationships and shared understanding necessary to move these priorities forward.

Building Tarrant County's Future Together

Tarrant County's economic momentum presents tremendous opportunity, but realizing its full potential will require ongoing partnership between business, government, education, and community stakeholders.

The 2026 State of the County luncheon served as a reminder that staying informed is an essential part of effective business leadership. When business leaders understand the policies and priorities shaping their community, they are better equipped to plan for the future, advocate for their interests, and contribute to the region's continued success.

The Fort Worth Chamber is proud to serve as a trusted convener and leading voice for business, connecting members with the information, relationships, and opportunities that help strengthen our local economy.

Thank you to Judge Tim O'Hare, our speakers, elected officials, community partners, and attendees for participating in this important conversation.

We also extend our appreciation to our presenting sponsor, Baylor Scott & White, and our generous event sponsors, including EECU, BNSF Railway, Frost, Kelly Hart, and Texas Health, for making this event possible.

Together, we are helping ensure Fort Worth and Tarrant County remain places where businesses can thrive, communities can prosper, and opportunity continues to grow.

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