Dennis Shingleton announced he will not seek a sixth term as District 7 councilmember.
Shingleton, 74, was elected in 2011. Shingleton played an active leadership role serving as mayor pro tem and on several city committees, including the Fort Worth Sports Authority and Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. Before representing District 7 as a councilmember, Shingleton served on the City Planning Commission for nine years and chaired it for five years.
“It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve the residents of District 7 and all of Fort Worth,” Shingleton said. “Together, working alongside residents and businesses from all parts of the community, we have made incredible strides and built a stronger Fort Worth with opportunity for all.”
Throughout his tenure on City Council, Shingleton was known for his common-sense approach and ability to bring people together to find solutions for even the most difficult issues. During his 10 years on the Council, Shingleton advocated for fiscal responsibility, strategic growth and economic development through several role, including chairing both the Texas Motor Speedway and Trinity River Vision Tax Increment Finance districts.
Shingleton helped cut property tax rates without impacting critical city services, supporting efforts that resulted in lowering the city’s tax rate 12 cents in four years. Shingleton played an active role in stabilizing the city’s pension fund, protecting both city employees and taxpayers.
A steadfast supporter of the business community and neighborhoods, Shingleton was able to balance the demands of rapid growth that Fort Worth experienced as the 13th largest city in the nation and one of the fastest growing big cities in the nation. Most notably, Shingleton played an integral role in an unprecedented public-private partnership that resulted in the construction of Dickies Arena. Shingleton continued to oversee the operations of the world-class multipurpose arena, serving on the board of directors. In bringing the arena online, Shingleton shepherded the reconstruction of Montgomery Street as the entryway to Fort Worth’s world-renowned Cultural District.
As a previous neighborhood association president, Shingleton recognizes the importance of strengthening diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. From advocating for additional parks to improving infrastructure in and around neighborhoods, Shingleton prioritized public safety and supported efforts to ensure safer communities.
“It is my hope the next District 7 Councilmember brings a fresh perspective and a passion for service, strengthening our neighborhoods and serving the residents of Fort Worth,” Shingleton said. “District 7 is incredibly diverse with active and engaged residents and businesses. The next representative has an extraordinary opportunity to continue supporting our community and everything that makes Fort Worth an incredible place to live and work.”
Beyond City Hall, Shingleton was an active member of the community, volunteering his time in several capacities. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, Shingleton served as a member of the NAS/JRB Regional Coordination Committee. Shingleton remains the assistant tournament chair for the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial, leading efforts to host the event as the first PGA tournament to return to the schedule in 2020.
Shingleton will retire alongside his wife, Cindy, in Fort Worth, where they have called home for more than 30 years. They have three children and 12 grandchildren.
