New Billboard Resonates with Citizens

    HALTOM CITY, TX, August 11, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The "Make Haltom City Thrive Again" movement was launched in 2021 by local businessman Ron Sturgeon to call attention to the ongoing decline in certain areas of Haltom City, and to educate citizens about the need for change.

"I continue to get emails from the board, from people that are dismayed by the decline in the southern and central areas of the city, and from residents who recognize the need for revitalization. They are also frustrated, as they are concerned that they have been disenfranchised by the city council, who they believe are out of touch," Sturgeon says.

The Make Haltom City Thrive Again movement has a dedicated website that, among other things, includes a list of practical goals that should be considered by elected officials and city leadership. Suggestions include maximizing support for first responders, prioritizing road repairs, putting a moratorium on new taxes unless/until budget increases are identified and approved and initiating programs to bring back small businesses to the south and central areas of the city in order to "Make Haltom City the best choice for new businesses and residents."

According to Sturgeon, revitalization of certain older corridors, such as NE 28th Street, Carson, Belknap and Denton Highway, is urgently needed. He frequently hears from citizens who agree and are increasingly frustrated by the city's lack of attention to this issue. For example, one resident recently wrote "We have 'growth and progress' on 820. What about 121, Haltom Rd, Belknap, Denton Highway? You can't focus on one small section of the city and call it good." Said another "Surrounding freeways may look ok, but inner HC is definitely deplorable."

Sturgeon has repeatedly stressed the need for a Concept Plan for Haltom City and has laid out a list of ideas in order to get the ball rolling. Whether or not his specific suggestions are adopted, he believes that a defined plan with target dates is a must. "In any case, an idea without a plan or date is a dream, so let's get moving making Haltom City the proud city with bustling corridors it once was."

Sturgeon, who is personally funding the awareness campaign, is not looking for donations, but rather hopes to see a group of like-minded stakeholders who will come together and advocate for change. "I am a huge fan of this mighty city and want the best for our residents and businesses. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] so we can work together to make the city thrive again by bringing back prosperity, products, services and jobs."

About Haltom City
Haltom City is a diverse, majority working-class city located between Dallas and Fort Worth in Tarrant County, TX. Haltom City is minutes from both the DFW Airport and Downtown Fort Worth with direct access to major highways including I-820 and SH-121. Due to an outdated and restrictive use matrix that discourages new business and deters growth, several areas of Haltom City have seen a decline in small businesses which provided goods and services and were a significant source of jobs, including the once-thriving automotive industry. However, Haltom City can reverse this trend and should prioritize development of inner-city land and vacant buildings, particularly in the major corridors close to the city's center. The city is financially healthy with a capable manager and staff who would like to see diverse business development occur and need the support of the City Council to make it happen.

About Make Haltom City Thrive Again
The Make Haltom City Thrive Again website offers information and resources about its purpose and goals. For more on Sturgeon's personal ideas and background, check out his book Keeping the Lights on Downtown in America's Small Cities and watch the videos on his Facebook page. Ron is also the founder of the Haltom United Business Alliance (HUBA) which represents existing business interests in Haltom City and promotes growth of diverse businesses as well. HUBA is not a political action committee and does not endorse candidates. If/when Ron endorses candidates, he will do so on his own or with the Make Haltom City Thrive Again organization.

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