Dallas Park and Recreation Board members engaged in a critical discussion on June 5, 2025, focusing on the ongoing partnership with FC Dallas and its implications for local youth sports programs. The board is considering a contract that would allocate funds for field improvements, but concerns were raised about whether the city had fully explored better financial arrangements with FC Dallas before moving forward.

The Chief Operating Officer of FC Dallas highlighted the need for the city to seek new revenue opportunities and reduce expenses to support core community programs, such as parks and recreation centers. Despite a decade-long partnership, the city has been shouldering the operational costs without meeting the expected financial goals. This has prompted board members to seek alternative solutions to enhance revenue and manage expenses effectively.

A significant point of contention was the accessibility of fields for youth teams outside of the FC Dallas organization. Board members expressed frustration over previous limitations that restricted access for other sports teams, which hindered their ability to practice and compete. The board is now looking for assurances that the partnership will allow for equitable field usage, particularly for teams not affiliated with FC Dallas.

The discussion also included a commitment from FC Dallas to provide a set number of hours for community use, which is intended to improve access for various youth programs. However, board members emphasized the need for better outreach to ensure that all local teams, including elite squads not under FC Dallas, can benefit from these resources.

As the board moves forward with the proposed contract, the focus remains on balancing the needs of the community with the operational realities of the partnership. The outcome of these discussions will be pivotal in shaping the future of youth sports access in Dallas, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to participate in organized sports.