This is a reminder that the Texas Legislature has passed a bill that will affect the use of cell phones in school zones. Effective SEPTEMBER 1st, only "hands free devices" may be used to communicate in a school zone unless:
- The vehicle is stopped; or
- The cell phone is used with a hands free device.
The City is posting signs at the entrance of all school zone crossings warning drivers not to use the cell phone in the school zone crossing. BE AWARE!
Also, I have posted a letter from former mayor and RE/MAX DFW Associates Broker, Mark Wolfe, written to the City Council after his opportunity to speak at the Public Hearing last Tuesday night. The next Public Hearing is Tuesday, September 1st.
Per Mark Wolfe:
The opposition is growing at a rapid pace among citizens regarding the proposed five cent tax increase for the City of Coppell. Over 300 citizens attended the Town Council this past Tuesday with over 90 signed up to speak in opposition to the tax increase.
To view update information:
http://concernedcitizen75019.blogspot.com
To email the Town Council:
citycouncil@ci.coppell.tx.us
The proposed five cent tax increase would be to pay for new and future debt at Northlake. But, the city has $16.2 million in its fund balance overage to assist in “rainy days.” The Town Council has refused to spend that money up to this point. I spoke at the Town Council this past Tuesday. Below is the follow-up email that I sent to the Council last evening.
2008 Tax Rates for Cities that Border Coppell:
Carrollton 0.617875
Farmers Branch 0.4945
Irving 0.5406
Lewisville 0.44021
Coppell 0.64146, proposed 0.69146
To: 'citycouncil@ci.coppell.tx.us'Subject: Thank You for Listening
Honorable Mayor and City Council,
I very much appreciate the opportunity that was afforded last night to the citizens to speak regarding the proposed tax rate increase and Municipal Budget. There was healthy discussion and when I came home from another meeting I was able to listen on TV the closing comments from each of the Council members. I know this is a difficult choice that each of you are making. I sat in your seat for several years and only someone that has been in your position fully understands the implications.
Coppell faces numerous challenges over the next several years. The Northlake issue, the aging population and the demographic changes will have major implications for our community. But the most pressing issue is our current economy. The current economic downturn has affected Coppell citizens more than many of us know. In my business our agents see it every day as they deal with their neighbors and fellow citizens in delinquent mortgages, refinancing, selling or downsizing their home, etc. It is all very real to so many. Also, local businesses are struggling for their very life. Several local business owners live on my street and virtually all have put personal savings into their companies this year. Several local business owners are drawing no salaries.
I share this information because the opposition and fear to the increased government spending in Washington D.C. has spilled over to the local economies. I personally believe this five cent tax increase is a boiling point for many citizens. It is not the money. It is the principle of the situation. It is the fact that our local government would do this to their citizens right now. I was not expecting the phone calls, emails and personal comments today from local citizens thanking me for my comments last night. Further, virtually every person made the comment of some on Council that appeared concerned and empathetic and others on Council that appeared arrogant with an attitude of “we know better than you.” I heard that several times today. People are angry and the slightest body language or facial expression apparently raised serious concerns among some local citizens. This community has had a real bond for many years. I fear that bond is on the verge of breaking.
Listening to your comments on TV at the close of the meeting I really felt that most Council members were really having an inner struggle on the issue. I trust that you will make the right decision for our community, both for the short term and the long term.
Thank you for your consideration.
Mark Wolfe
I hope all of you have a SAFE Labor Day Weekend!
Best regards,
Cindy Etheredge, President cindy@WheresHome.com
