PILLAR: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: December 10, 2025
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 4
DEPARTMENT: Park & Recreation Department
PRIORITY: N/A
______________________________________________________________________
SUBJECT
Title
Authorize a maintenance and use agreement with Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation for the maintenance, operation, and use of Halperin Park located between South Marsalis Avenue and South Ewing Avenue - Financing: This action has no cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
Body
BACKGROUND
The City of Dallas desires to enter into a maintenance and use agreement with Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation (SGPGF) for an initial term of 25 years and three five-year renewal options for a total of 40 years. This agreement hereby incorporates the terms and conditions of the Multiuse Agreement between the City of Dallas and the Texas Department of Transportation that was approved by City Council on June 14, 2023. SGPGF and the City of Dallas have agreed to the deal points below:
• Term of agreement is for an initial term of 25 years and three 5-year renewal options for a total of 40 years;
• SGPGF will provide and have sole control over programming; special events are allowed without any City permit if contained within footprint of park. If extended outside, Office of Special Events permit is required;
• SGPGF has sole right to select names for parks and areas of park (carry over language from development agreement that includes requirement of Park Board approval);
• SGPGF will coordinate the scheduling for the Park. The City shall have the right to reserve up to 6 calendar days each year for City events, such dates to be reserved no later than 120 days prior to the commencement of the calendar year, subject to availability. Additionally, the City shall have the right to reserve up to 6 additional calendar days for City events, subject to availability, by written request provided to SGP no sooner than 90 days and no later than 60 days prior to the proposed date, and only so long as the proposed event does not materially impact other operations and scheduled events taking place at the Park;
• SGPGF shall set operating hours, rates, fees, and charges for public access. The hours shall be reasonably consistent with regular City of Dallas park hours;
• SGPGF will be responsible for paying all costs to operate, maintain, repair, etc.;
• SGPGF shall furnish balance sheets, statement of operations, and statement of cash flows at end of each of its fiscal years;
• SGPGF to present annual report/update to Park and Recreation Board;
• SGPGF shall establish an operating reserve that can be accessed by City, if City must perform services;
• SGPGF shall furnish balance sheets, statement of operations, statement of cash flows, and audited financial statement at end of each of its fiscal year;
• SGPGF will include an exhibit of certain prohibited uses, including events or uses that would have negative impact on zoo animals;
• SGPGF will endeavor to ensure community engagement and outreach, including with area students and by providing internship opportunities and a summary of such activities will be included in its annual report to Park and Recreation Board.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On June 17, 2021, the Park and Recreation Board authorized a development agreement with Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation to provide the design and construction of Halperin Park.
On October 23, 2025, the Park and Recreation Board authorized a maintenance and use agreement with Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation for the maintenance, operation and use of Halperin Park located between South Marsalis Avenue and South Ewing Avenue.
FISCAL INFORMATION
This item has no cost consideration to the City. Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation will maintain Halperin Park per the maintenance and use agreement.
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