Haltom City Business Vacancy Rates Rise, Sparking Concerns Over Economic Decline

A recent business census conducted by the Haltom United Business Alliance (HUBA) has revealed a concerning trend in Haltom City, Texas. The vacancy rate for businesses in the city's main corridors has increased from 16.8% to 20.1% between December 2022 and December 2023, indicating a significant decline in business occupancy.

The census, which focused on key areas including Denton Highway south of Loop 820, Carson from Belknap to Beach, Northeast 28th from Belknap to Beach St., and Belknap west to Beach St., shows that business occupancy has dropped from 83.2% to 79.9% over the course of one year. This decline is particularly noticeable in the central and southern parts of the city, where many buildings stand vacant or boarded up.

Joe Palmer, HUBA's Communications Director, expressed frustration with the city's apparent reluctance to address this decline. "Anytime it's brought up, the city just speaks of all the development on the north side and how they're bringing so much business to Haltom City, yet anyone can see the decline, the boarded-up buildings and all the vacancies in the main corridors in the central and south parts of the city," Palmer stated.

The alliance argues that the city's current policies, including restrictive parking requirements, special use permits, and an outdated use matrix, are hindering the establishment of new businesses in these areas. For example, dry cleaners are only allowed in one zoning district, while swimming pool supply companies require special use permits in commercial zones.

HUBA has proposed a series of reforms that they claim would cost the city nothing while making it easier for businesses to establish themselves in the declining areas. The alliance believes that revitalizing these corridors requires attracting small businesses one at a time, rather than focusing solely on large corporations that tend to locate in the northern part of the city.

The implications of this increasing vacancy rate extend beyond just the business community. With over 1,000 people moving into North Texas daily, Haltom City appears to be the only city in Tarrant County experiencing a population decline. The condition of these main corridors likely influences potential residents' decisions to move to the area, as they often drive through these areas when considering relocation.

Furthermore, the decline in business occupancy could lead to a weakened tax base, potentially impacting the city's ability to fund essential services and maintain competitive wages for first responders. It may also result in increased crime and blight in the affected areas if left unaddressed.

The business census and its findings highlight the urgent need for Haltom City to reassess its approach to economic development, particularly in its central and southern corridors. By recognizing the current challenges and implementing more business-friendly policies, the city may be able to reverse this trend and foster a more vibrant, diverse local economy.

As the retail and office sectors continue to face challenges nationwide, attracting and retaining businesses becomes increasingly critical for municipalities like Haltom City. The HUBA's call for a comprehensive revitalization plan and stronger support for the business community may prove essential in ensuring the city's long-term economic health and preventing further degradation of its main commercial areas.