5 Timely Questions Lakewood Homeowners Are Asking This Fall (and Why They Matter)

1. How will the new 2025 over-65/disabled property-tax exemption affect my Dallas bill?

Why it matters:
Dallas raised its over-65 or disabled property-tax exemption to $175,000 this year—providing real relief for fixed-income homeowners. Property tax statements are being mailed now, so this is the perfect time to confirm your exemptions.

Trend signals:

• Policy/news: City Council budget and exemption updates for FY 2025–26.

• Seasonal: October property-tax mail-outs.

• Pricing: Home values remain strong; rate adjustments slightly offset gains.

Local intent: Yes (Dallas-specific).

Sources:

• City of Dallas Increases Over-65 or Disabled Property Tax Exemption (2025-06)

• Dallas City Council Approves FY 2025-26 Budget (2025-09-18)

• Dallas County Tax Office: Statements Mailed! (2025-10)

• Axios Dallas: Dallas closes library and pools, shifting money to public safety (2025-10-09)
  
  

2. Is Dallas really moving our trash pickup from alleys to the curb—and will Lakewood be affected in 2026?

Why it matters:
Many Lakewood blocks depend on alley trash pickup. After strong neighborhood feedback, Dallas announced a temporary pause on moving all service to the curb as of October 1, 2025.

Trend signals:

• Policy/news: City sanitation reevaluation and feedback period.

• Seasonal: Public survey open through November.

• Community: Older residents and smaller households expressing accessibility concerns.

Local intent: Yes (Lakewood neighborhoods directly affected).

Sources:

• City Manager Places Temporary Pause on Alley-to-Curb Transition (2025-10-01)

• KERA News: Dallas reconsiders ending alley trash pickup (2025-10-01)

3. What will DART’s new Silver Line mean for airport trips and car-free living?

Why it matters:
The DART Silver Line, opening October 25, connects Plano to DFW Airport—potentially reducing car dependency for Lakewood homeowners who prefer convenience and less maintenance.

Trend signals:

• Launch: New regional rail debut this month.

• Lifestyle: Growing interest in transit and walkable access for retirees.

• Development: Anticipated growth near DART stations.

Local intent: Yes (regional but directly beneficial to Dallas residents).

Sources:

• DART: Silver Line Launch Announcement (2025-10-08)

• Community Impact: DART Silver Line and Service Updates (2025-10-10)

• DART Transform Bus Fleet Expansion (2025-10-01)

4. Do I need to check my home’s water service line for lead this fall?

Why it matters:
Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) is mailing notices to homeowners asking them to verify pipe materials as part of federal EPA Lead and Copper Rule compliance. Homes built before 1986 may have older pipes that need replacement.

Trend signals:

• Regulatory: Federal mandate for full inventory by 2027.

• Seasonal: City mailings October–November.

• Home safety: Emphasis on preventative maintenance.

Local intent: Yes (DWU customers citywide).

Sources:

• Dallas City News: Lead & Copper Service Line Inventory (2025-10-07)

• City of Dallas Memo: Lead & Copper Rule Revisions Status (2025-09-12)

• TCEQ: Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (2024-10-16)

5. Which city service changes in the new Dallas budget will affect Lakewood residents?

Why it matters:
The FY 2025–26 Dallas budget reallocates funds to prioritize public safety, while reducing operational support for libraries and pools. Homeowners seeking convenience and amenities should watch how this affects their neighborhoods in 2026.

Trend signals:

• Policy/news: City Council final budget approval in September.

• Seasonal: Property-tax statements arriving in October.

• Lifestyle: Amenity accessibility changes ahead.

Local intent: Yes (citywide, neighborhood-level impact).

Sources:

• City of Dallas: FY 2025–26 Budget Approved (2025-09-18)

• Axios Dallas: City closes library and pools amid budget shift (2025-10-09)

Dallas County Tax Office: 2025 Tax Statements In the Mail (2025-10)

Takeaway for Lakewood Homeowners

This fall, Dallas is evolving—offering both relief and new adjustments. For Lakewood residents ready to simplify life, downsize, or plan for retirement, these policy shifts are worth watching. Staying informed means staying empowered.