DeSoto City Manager Responds to Finance, Crime Concerns

By Joshua Carter Apr 6, 2025 #CityofDesoto #News

Photo provided by City of DeSoto

DeSoto City Manager Majed Al-Ghafry has issued a public letter addressing community concerns about the city’s finances and crime rates, assuring residents that DeSoto remains both fiscally sound and increasingly safe.

“Transparency is a core value in our city, and I’d like to take this opportunity to provide you with factual, up-to-date information so that you are fully informed,” Al-Ghafry wrote.

Financial Stability Backed by Strong Reserves and Recognitions

Al-Ghafry emphasized DeSoto’s longstanding reputation for sound financial management, noting several national recognitions:

The city has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association for more than 20 consecutive years.
It has also earned the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the same association for nearly four decades.

Additional financial highlights:

The property tax rate has been lowered or frozen for 14 years, currently set at 68.4934 cents per $100 valuation.
DeSoto maintains an AA bond rating for the seventh straight year.
The city’s general fund reserve stands at $31.7 million, positioning it to handle both economic growth and unforeseen challenges.

Crime Rates Down More Than 20% in 2025

Al-Ghafry also pointed to encouraging crime statistics:

In 2024, overall crime dropped by 8% compared with the previous year.
In the first quarter of 2025, crime is already down more than 20% compared with the same period last year.

“This is a positive reflection of our Police Department’s efforts to keep DeSoto a safe and welcoming community for all,” Al-Ghafry stated.

Public Safety Town Hall Set for April 10

To continue the conversation around safety, residents are invited to attend a Public Safety Town Hall hosted by the DeSoto Police Department:

Location: DeSoto City Hall
Date: Wednesday, April 10
Time: 7:30 p.m.

The event will feature updates from police leadership and offer residents an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about ongoing safety initiatives.

Residents seeking more information are encouraged to contact DeSoto City Hall or attend the upcoming town hall.

See full statement here.

By Joshua Carter

Joshua Carter, a Dallas native, is a seasoned journalist with a passion for storytelling. He holds a bachelor's degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from the University of North Texas and has previously worked for the Dallas Express. Throughout his career, Joshua has interviewed a diverse range of personalities, from Mark Cuban to Ice Cube, providing unique insights into their lives. With a commitment to excellence, he continues to captivate audiences with his compelling storytelling and insightful interviews.