2012-08-21 08:11 Fort Worth, TX—Nation’s Best Program in Jeopardy The City of Fort Worth’s proposed FY2012/13 budget contains no funding for Fort Worth Sister Cities.   This total cut in funding may seriously jeopardize Fort Worth Sister Cities’ continued existence. After a meeting in which the Mayor indicated further consideration of funding may be given,  Brad Mahon, Chairman of the Board stated, “We are hopeful the funding will be directly designated in the budget so that we can continue to provide award-winning programs on behalf of the City.” Fort Worth has been recognized as having the Best Overall Program in the U.S. from the national organization eight times, more than any other city in the U.S. “Since starting Fort Worth Sister Cities in 1985 during my mayoral term, I have watched Sister Cities grow youth leadership programs, travel exchanges and business expansions around the world,” said former Mayor Bob Bolen. Sister city relationships are municipal government agreements recognized by the U.S. Dept. of State.  Fort Worth has eight such recognized official agreements signed by Mayors of Fort Worth beginning in 1985.  Sister Cities, who manages these relationships, received $100,000 from the City this year which is 20% of its core budget. Fort Worth Sister Cities programs yield an annual economic impact of $2.6 million to the City of Fort Worth hosting over 500 visitors annually.   It leverages international relationships to attract economic connections and tourism.