April 5, 2016 City Council approves "in God we trust" on vehicles

During its regular Apr. 05, 2016 meeting, the Forney City Council met and (this is the initial summary report):

• As a consent item, approved acceptance of the public improvements for the Trails of Chestnut Meadows subdivision, Phase 5.
  
• Held a public hearing re: a waiver of the 300-foot spacing requirement between a place of business selling alcoholic beverages at 106 E. Main Street and a public school.
  
  Ken Hill spoke in favor.
  
  Mark Cuban spoke against.
  
  Jason Ehrenberg spoke in favor.
  
  Steven Marting spoke against.
  
  Lori Spradley spoke in favor of the applicant and the variance.
  
  Katie Snyder spoke in favor of the business, but against the location near the school.
  
  Chrissy Stinson spoke in favor.
  
  at 7:25, Mr. Stephens moved to deny the variance, seconded by Mr. Regan, it was unanimously approved (to deny).
  
• Approved a Resolution authorizing the use of the motto "In God We Trust" on City vehicles.
  
  Mr. Regan read stated his reasons for bringing this item. Mr. Stephens expressed his thanks to Mr. Regan for being asked to be the cosponsor, and how excited he was to do this for first responders.
  
  Mayor Wilson stated he met w/ Ken Paxton, who said the city has every right to do this, and the AG would support them.
  
  This item received two standing ovations, in addition to unanimous approval.
  
• Received, then approved, annual audit presentation by Pattillo, Brown & Hill and discuss and consider acceptance of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the City of Forney. This was tabled at the 3/15/16 meeting.
  
  
  
• Discussed entering into negotiations with Mark Out Water Supply Corporation.
  
  Mr. Stephens read from a printed legal opinion stating he was legally allowed to vote on this issue.
  
  Ms. Penn gave an emotional statement about this issue dividing the city, and suggested giving a rebate to the affected citizens.
  
  After a very lengthy discussion, this item was approved.
  
• Approved initiating the process to amend the residential zoning district regulations of the City of Forney Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
  
• Discussed possible annexation of NextEra Corporation, and approved having staff move forward with preparations.
  
• Approved a Resolution confirming a cooperative agreement with the City of Terrell for a regional wastewater distribution and collection system.
  
• Approved authorizing the Interim City Manager to finalize and execute the Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment with Speed Fab-Crete Corporation for construction of the new Animal Shelter.
  
• Approved a HOT Fund application from Forney Downtown Business Association for a downtown mural.
  
  Mr. Ketteman explained the FDBA returned funds they had not used that had been allocated for the downtown mural, as they were not able to spend the funds due to building, right-of-way, and artist availability issues. All those issues have been remedied, they are ready to move forward, and need the funds reissued.
  
• Public Comments:
  • Bilie Kasper, with her Chamber of Commerce hat on, announced candidates forum on April 12.
  • Linda Gamble yet again adressed the council concerning problems with parents during school pickup and dropoff, and related the many instances she has recently witnessed of children almost being struck by vehicles.
    
  • Tommy Audrey(?) came with groups for the "in God we trust", but the gold-trimmed flags behind the council - he
    can not pledge allegiance to that flag - most people think it looks pretty. He wants them to check what he says, and then to remove the gold trim.