Farmers Branch News and Info

Check Crime Statistics Online!

2008-08-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

The Farmers Branch Police Department has joined several other Texas cities, along with communities across the nation, in subscribing to a web-based service that plots crime occurrences in their jurisdictions. Crimereports.com retrieves data on a daily basis from a police database and plots crime occurrences onto a Google map. The public can access the site at www.crimereports.com or click on the link from the Farmers Branch Police Department page on the City of Farmers Branch web site at www.farmersbranch.info .

Citizen Police Academy

2008-08-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

We have an outstanding program here in Farmers Branch where citizens can learn about police work and law enforcement, called the Citizen's Police Academy. There are several slots available for the next academy, which will begin in early September. You can find more information about the program here. If you're interested, contact Lieutenant Mike Blum for all details. His email is mike.blum@farmersbranch.info

Tim

Good News: The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals Gets It Right

2008-08-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

This story was just posted on the Dallas Morning News web site. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals dropped CFBISD from a lawsuit filed by Shannon and David Croft challenging the daily moment of silence in schools.

The 5th Circuit said the law is “clearly secular — to promote patriotism, thoughtful contemplation and nondiscrimination.” The state also said that allowing students to pray during the moment of silence protects religious freedom, which is a constitutional right.

Way to go, 5th Circuit.

Tim

Jobs Elimintated

2008-08-01T20:02:00.001-07:00

I appreciate the hard work of Gary Greer and the other leaders on the FB City staff. They had some very tough decisions to make, decisions that had an impact on individuals who have worked for the city and served its citizens. I appreciate the dedication and service of those individuals who were affected by these budget decisions.

The city - first and foremost - exists to serve it's citizens. We have the lowest municipal cost and tax burden than any other in the metroplex. Energy costs and state mandates have increased our expenses exponentially. The other options available to the city are to cut services or raise taxes. I don't want to see us do either of those.

I thank Gary Greer for being proactive in developing a budget for 2008-2009 that maintains the level of services our citizens expect and deserve.

And regarding legal fees...we're paying double our total legal fees this year to paint a water tower. These decisions are not being driven by our upholding the law and carrying out the will of the people.

TIm

I'm Back Online!

2008-08-01T20:01:00.003-07:00

Google thought my blog was spam. They temporarily shut it down, but it's back.

Tim

Report: Illegal Immigrant Numbers Decreasing

2008-07-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

Stumbled across this article today. Interesting.

Tim

Farmers Branch Lowest City Charges in Metroplex

2008-07-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

Here's the link to a story in today's Dallas Morning News. I've blogged about this before, Farmers Branch has the lowest City charges to residents than any other city in the metroplex. One of the biggest reasons is that our residents pay nothing for garabage pickup. We're the only city in the metroplex that does not charge for garbage services, while also offering more garbage services than the others, including home delivery of brown paper garbage bags, and weekly curbside pickup by the 'green grabber' of just about anything you can drag to the street.

Farmers Branch is the best, and cheapest, place to live in the Metroplex.

Tim

2008-07-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

Here's the link. It's a nice article about the incentives availale to homeowners and prospective homeowners in Farmers Branch.

Tim

Happy Fourth of July!

2008-07-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

Get out and celebrate our freedom and liberty!

See you at the Historical Park tonight.

Tim

D-Day Anniversary

2008-06-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

June 6, 1944, the day US and Allied forces threw themselves against the German Army in the invasion of Normandy. We should all be grateful to all the men and women who sacrificed so much, so that we can live in freedom and liberty.

Here's a great speech, don't miss it.

Tim Scott

Redevelopment: Full Speed Ahead!

2008-06-06T06:50:00.000-07:00

I'm excited about the work that is being done around redevelopment in Farmers Branch. The need for increased grocery, retail, and restaurant options, and for affordable Senior Housing, is a common theme I hear from all residents. We've been listening, and we're moving full speed ahead.

You can read two articles about the exciting efforts underway here and here.

The Dallas Orchestra in the Park was Fantastic!

2008-06-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

I hope you were able to be at this event. Wow. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra was great, and the fireworks were fabulous. What a great event in Farmers Branch!

More pictures here.

Tim Scott

Mayor's Day in Farmers Branch

2008-06-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with the dedication of the Dodson House Historical designation, May 31 was proclaimed "Mayor's Day" in Farmers Branch. All living past (and present) Mayor's were in attendance. They are, left to right, Dave Blair, Lawson Lewis, George Grimmer, Bob Phelps, and Tim O'Hare.

Tim Scott

Dodson House Historical Marker Dedication

2008-06-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

We value our heritage and our history in Farmers Branch.

Saturday night was the unveiling of a new Historical Marker at the Dodson House in our Historical Park. This house was the residence of William Dodson, the first Mayor of Farmers Branch. The house was built in 1937.

In January of 1946, William Dodson learned that the City of Dallas planned to annex the Farmers Branch community, and he and his neighbors circulated a petition for a local incorporation election. Citizens voted their approval, and the City of Farmers Branch was born, and Mr. Dodson was elected the first Mayor. Three of the very first City Council meetings were held in the Dodson House.

Maude Dodson, William's wife, lived in the home until 1983, before donating it to the City to become the core of what is now the Historical Park.

Great work by our Historical Preservation and Restoration Board to secure the Historical Marker, and in putting on a great event.

More pictures of the event can be found here.

Dallas Symphony Returns to FB!

2008-05-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

Music will be in the air Saturday, May 31 as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra returns to the Farmers Branch Historical Park for a free concert under the stars.

Gates will open at 6:30 with the show beginning at 8. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Concessions will be available.

The show will conclude with a fireworks display over the park. Parking will be available at the MetroSquare Business Park, two blocks south of the Historical Park on Ford Road with a free shuttle to the gate. Handicapped parking will be at the DART Park & Ride facility on Denton Drive just south of Valley View. Call 972-919-2620.

Hope to see you there!

A Ruling We All Expected

2008-05-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

If you read any of Judge Linday's previous opinions on our ordinances, yesterday's ruling would've been no surprise. Don't worry, we are undetered in our fight to carry out the will of the people!

From the DMN:

"Then we would have two ordinances with which we can appeal to the 5th Circuit," Mr. O'Hare said. "We're confident in the end that we're going to prevail."

"The people's will, and people's decisions, and people's wishes once again get ignored and overturned," City Council member David Koch said.

You can watch news coverage here, or read about it here.

Tim Scott

MIssouri Approves Illegal Alien Enforcement Bill

2008-05-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

From azcentral.com:

Missouri lawmakers gave final approval Friday to a bill that adds new restrictions and requirements for illegal immigrants, the cities in which they live and the businesses that employ them.

The bill would require people to prove they are U.S. citizens or are legally in the country when applying for food stamps, housing and other public benefits; penalize businesses that knowingly hire illegal immigrants; order the Missouri State Highway Patrol to seek special federal immigration training; and bar Missouri cities from refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

More here. And here. And here.

Tim

Farmers Branch and ICE's 287(g) Program

2008-05-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

Great news on the Public Safety front. Our detective has gone through the 4 week training with ICE and is back to work at the police station this week. We now have a trained detective that is certified with ICE and will work with them on cases involving criminal aliens.

We believe that this the first municipal officer in Texas to complete this training.

Tim Scott

Addison Development Will Impact FB

2008-05-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

This is exciting. You may have seen the demolition that has begun on multiple apartment complexes in Addison on Brookhaven Club Drive. The existing structures are being torn down to make way for the new Vitruvian Park development. You can find out more about this development here and here.

While this isn't a Farmers Branch development, it will have a significant and positive impact on the dining and retail options available to our residents, and will only increase the likelihood of additional development in our town.

The next few years will be very exciting in Farmers Branch, as we watch our entire city, from the North Dallas Tollway to the George Bush Tollway, experience new development and revitalization.

Let's go!

Tim Scott

Congratulations Tim and Harold!

2008-05-12T08:28:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a great year for Farmers Branch!

Tim Scott

Results Watching Party! You're Invited!

2008-05-09T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Neighbors of Farmers Branch!

Election Day is TOMORROW! Please, if you haven't already voted, make sure you make time to come vote for Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich, and tell all your friends to do the same!

Also, you and your neighbors are invited to a Results Watching Party tomorrow night at 7:30pm at the Holiday Inn Select, 2645 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, Farmers Branch. We'd love to have you come share this experience with us!

LET'S CLOSE THIS THING OUT TOMORROW FOR TIM AND HAROLD!

Tim Scott

I'll Do What Gene Bledsoe Won't

2008-05-07T15:16:00.000-07:00

I was wrong.

I said that Gene was in violation of the Campaign Ethics Laws. Turns out he's not. I was wrong. He didn't violate Campaign Ethics Laws.

He did, however take money from the very attorney's suing the city.

He also did not play a regular season game for the New York Jets. And he's never backed away from his outlandish comments about the state of the city's finances.

When confronted with a mistake, I correct it. That's how I was raised, that's what I believe in.

I got the Campaign Ethics thing wrong. I admit it, and correct it.

Gene, why don't you join me and correct all the mis-statements of fact you've made?

Everybody into the honesty pool. The water's warm.

Tim Scott

FB Most Cost-Effective Place to Live!

2008-05-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Here's the text of an exciting press release from FB:

Taking into account factors involved in residential living, Farmers Branch was found to be the most cost-effective place to live in a 2008 survey of 19 Metroplex cities, conducted by the City of Carrollton.

The “Municipal Cost of Service” comparison takes into account population, median home value, property tax rate, homestead exemption, City sales tax rate and annual charges for property taxes, sewer, drainage and sanitation. Behind Farmers Branch in the top five were Addison, Plano, Frisco and Irving.

Farmers Branch City Manager Gary D. Greer appreciated the survey, saying it affirms that the Farmers Branch community is not only beautiful and safe, but an affordable place to raise a family.

“We pride ourselves on the delivery of the highest quality of service to our citizens,” he said. “That is a long-standing tradition in Farmers Branch that we are committed to continuing into the future.”

The Cities of Carrollton, Lewisville, Arlington, Allen and Richardson rounded out the top 10. Coppell, McKinney, Grand Prairie, Mesquite, Dallas, Garland, Denton, Fort Worth and The Colony completed the list. Full survey results are available at www.farmersbranch.info.

Go Read Tim O'Hare's Blog Today

2008-05-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare has a good blog entry today about the very important election on Saturday. Take some time to read it.

Tim

Bickel & Brewer & Bledsoe

2008-05-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

Gene Bledsoe wants to be your next Mayor. So much so, that he’ll say anything to frighten and scare our citizens and disparage Mayor Pro Tem Tim O’Hare. He’s been confronted with the facts, and yet continues to spread his untruths, all while raising the mantle of “integrity.” I guess he and I have different definitions of “integrity.”

But I have another definition that I don’t think Mr. Bledsoe quite understands.

Conflict of Interest: –noun; The circumstance of a public officeholder, business executive, or the like, whose personal interests might benefit from his or her official actions or influence,

Today on his campaign finance disclosure form, Mr. Bledsoe indicated that he had received $1,000 donations each from John Bickel and William Brewer. You know John Bickel and William Brewer, the attorneys from the firm Bickel and Brewer who have multiple lawsuits currently pending against the city. Bickel and Brewer essentially financed the entirety of the campaign against Ordinance 2903 last May, and have not hesitated to speak out against the 68% of the citizens of Farmers Branch or bring lawsuit after lawsuit to reverse their defeat at the ballot box. That’s right, you read that correctly. Mr. Bledsoe is accepting donations from the law firm that is seeking monetary damages from our city.

Last May, while campaigning vociferously against Ordinance 2903 and our efforts to stem the tide of illegal immigration in our city, Mr. Bledsoe was quoted in the Dallas Morning News as saying the ordinance and your city’s efforts were bad ideas, and would only end up “buying swimming pools for lawyers.” The lawyers he was referring to are John Bickel and William Brewer. Looks like Mr. Bledsoe would like to be in a position to expedite the construction of those swimming pools.

Ask yourself: when tough decisions have to be made about the city’s legal defense, carrying out the will of 68% of the people, and protecting our city’s finances, where will Mr. Bledsoe’s allegiance lie? Do you think he’ll be influenced by his very public statements about his opposition to Ordinance 2903, and his reliance on cash donations from the very attorneys seeking to take as much money as possible from the city? It’s a legitimate - and troubling - question.

Ak yourself: Who do you want going toe-to-toe with the tough attorneys trying to use our hard-earned tax dollars to finance their backyard landscaping: the candidate who’s stood up and held strong on the behalf of our citizens against frivolous lawsuits and opportunistic attorneys, or the candidate who’s relying on contributions from those very attorneys to finance his campaign?

I think you know the answer. Vote Tim O’Hare for Mayor of Farmers Branch.

Tim Scott
City Council, Place One

Question: What Does "Immigraiton Reform" Mean?

2008-05-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

I hear all the time in the media that what this country needs is "comprehensive immigration reform." There's a candidate for mayor (who has a hard time being honest) who openly campaigned against Farmers Branch Oridinance 2903, but says he's against illegal immigration and wants the Federal Government to provide "comprehensive immigration reform."

I want to hear from you. I want to know what "comprehensive immigration reform" means. What is that, exactly?

Tim Scott

Dear Citizens of Farmers Branch:

2008-04-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Citizens of Farmers Branch:

As April is drawing to a close, the vast majority of our friends and neighbors are quietly
going about their business, driving to work, taking their kids to school, attending
activities at the Senior Center, and finding time to make it to City Hall to take advantage
of early voting, while a small minority of citizens are flooding the city with vitriol, anger,
character assassination, and unabashed dishonesty. Must be election time in Farmers
Branch.

How one reacts to desperation says much about a personʼs character. When youʼre
desperate, are you willing to set aside your values, your honesty and integrity, in order
to cling to a fading hope? Will you say anything and do anything to get what you want,
regardless of what it does to others or your own reputation? Sadly, weʼre witnessing
one ugly answer to that question.

Candidateʼs Bledsoe and Rendon and their supporters find themselves racked with
desperation.

No doubt youʼve received several pieces of angry political propaganda. I canʼt tell how
much Iʼve wanted to fire off email after email to you, slashing to pieces each and every
dishonest diatribe that Mr. Bledsoe and Mr. Rendon have circulated in the last few
weeks, but that would be too easy. Besides, I have complete confidence that the
citizens of Farmers Branch know the truth, and donʼt need me to point out every lie that
is told to them. Youʼre smarter than that.

And Iʼm not desperate; Iʼm confident. Iʼm confident in Tim OʼHare, Iʼm confident in
Harold Froehlich, Iʼm confident in the present and future of Farmers Branch, and most
importantly, Iʼm confident in you, my friends and neighbors of Farmers Branch. You
recognize progress, leadership and truth when you see it. Iʼm confident you see those
things in Tim OʼHare and Harold Froehlich.

And Iʼm confident you donʼt see it in desperate people or desperation politics. I am
confident that you will reject desperation politics, and the anger, dishonesty, and
character assassination that goes along with it.

Early voting continues through next Tuesday, May 6, election day is Saturday, May 10.
Please vote for progress, leadership, and truth. Vote for Tim OʼHare and Harold
Froehlich.

Tim Scott
Farmers Branch City Council, Place 1

Vote for Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich, Beginning Today!

2008-04-28T07:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we've arrived at early voting! Early voting begins today at the Farmers Branch City Hall, and runs through Tuesday, May 6. You can vote Monday through Saturday from 8am to 3pm, Sunday from 1pm to 6pm, and Monday and Tuesday May 5-6 the hours are extended to 7am to 7pm.

I can't stress to you enough the importance of getting to the polls and voting. We need everyone to come out and vote for Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich to send the message that this city is heading in the right direction, and we are united in making Farmers Branch the best living place in Texas!

This is an exciting time in our city's history! We are on the verge of explosive growth and breakthrough redevelopment. Let's not slow down! A vote for Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich is a vote to continue us on this exciting path.

If you need any assistance getting to the polls, or know of someone who does, please don't hestitate to contact me. Grab your friends and neighbors and go vote!

Tim Scott

Just in Case You Missed It

2008-04-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

There's was an article in the DMN today about the mayorial candidate's fundraising efforts. Just in case you missed it, I wanted to highlight candidate Bledsoe's biggest contributors are the Apartment Owner's Association of Greater Dallas PAC, the treasurer of the Dallas chapter of the ACLU, and Elizabeth Villafranca.

That's an organization that disagrees with 68% of our citizens when it comes to illegal immigration enforcement, an officer in the ACLU, and the former President of the Farmers Branch chapter of LULAC and most vocal activist against the city of Farmers Branch.

Be careful of the company you keep. It says alot about you. And candidate Bledsoe's donors say alot about his agenda.

Mayor and City Council Candidate Forum Tonight!

2008-04-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Wanted to remind you of the first Farmers Branch Candidate Forum, which is tonight, Wednesday, April 9th at 7:00pm at the Farmers Branch Senior Center. This is a great opportunity to hear Candidate for Mayor Tim O'Hare and Candidate for City Council Harold Froelich speak directly the people and discuss their vision for our city. Those two will share the stage with all candidates running for office. I would suggest arriving early to secure a good seat.

See you tomorrow night at 7:00pm at the Farmers Branch Senior Center.

Read This: It's Working in the State of Arizona

2008-04-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

Read this article. Notice that even though the naysayers cry that the State's economy is negatively affected, the overall impact has been overwhelmingly positive. A couple of highlights:

Pearce says the overall effect has been undeniably positive for Arizona. "Smaller class sizes, shorter emergency room waits," he said. "Even if [illegal immigrants] are paying taxes -- and most of them aren't -- the cost to taxpayers is huge."

"What I love about what Arizona is doing is we don't have to rely on the federal government," said state Rep. Russell Pearce, a Mesa Republican who has authored most of the toughest measures. "It has truly woken up the rest of America that states can fix that problem."

The campaign has had an effect: Illegal immigrants complain it's impossible to find good work and are leaving the state.

Another New Development in Farmers Branch!

2008-04-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

Progress continues at a fast pace in Farmers Branch! At the city council meeting this past Tuesday night, we approved the final plat for the "W-Lofts Addition," a new four-story multi-family residential development, which will consist of approximately 328 apartment units and a parking garage on a site just behind the Sheraton Hotel that is currently a bumpy, abandoned parking lot. You probably have driven through this parking lot on your way to the Galleria if you've ever used the McEwen shortcut.

This is a great addition to the other exciting developments currently underway, and beyond providing another outstanding housing opportunity, it will increase the revenue to the city through additional property taxes.

I want to stress this point: the more developments we have across town and the more new construction that occurs, the greater the property taxes the city receives. The more property taxes the city received, the more outstanding programs we can offer our citizens (like the Dallas Symphony in the Park, programs at the Senior Center, Youth Sports Leagues), and the more beautification projects and parks we can build. Also, we can explore a tax cut to our residents.

This current council and staff are maximizing our current opportunities for new development across the city. We can't stop this momentum! This is a big reason why it's important that you elect Tim O'Hare Mayor of Farmers Branch and Harold Froehlich to the city council. I am confident that Harold Froehlich share our vision for where our city is going, and Tim has been instrumental in bringing major developments to our city. A vote against Tim O’Hare is a vote to slow down our progress.

Tim Scott

Farmers Branch Police: Oustanding!

2008-04-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

I did a ride-along with the FB Police Department on Friday night. What a great experience! Thanks to Officer Rossman for putting up with me for eight hours and for answering all my questions. I can tell you with confidence that Chief Fuller has put together an oustanding police force for us here in Farmers Branch, their professionalism, judgement, and character are unmatched.

Tim Scott

More Cities and States Taking Responsibility

2008-03-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

Check this out. Rhode Island; Kansas; Willamina, Oregon; cities and states are taking illegal immigration enforcement seriously. Welcome to the party, more are welcome.

Tim Scott

Citywide CleanUp Day This Saturday

2008-03-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

As part of the Neighborhood Beautification initiative, advanced by the City Council, a CityWide CleanUp Day is planned to encourage Spring Cleaning on Saturday, March 29.

Community Watch groups with registered block parties will have trash dumpsters delivered to their neighborhoods to assist in clean up efforts. Registered parties will also be visited by the “Clean Team” with information, giveaways and drawings.

Additionally, everyone is invited to the "CleanUp Central" location at Don Showman Park, Valwood at Heartside Place, that will feature trash and recycling containers, free electronics recycling opportunities (for monitors, TVs, printers and such), concessions, a bounce house, consultation with Code Enforcement personnel and with Parks Landscape Manager Pam Smith. There will also be pets available for adoption from the Farmers Branch Animal Shelter and a giveaway of Spring color, roses and trees (while supplies last). Hours on the “Clean Team” and on “CleanUp Central” will be from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. that day.

In association with the CleanUp Day event, free classes will be held inside the Community Recreation Center, adjacent to the Don Showman site at 14050 Heartside Place. Speakers from the Dallas County Master Gardeners Speakers Bureau will address landscaping and lawn issues:

10 a.m. – Water Wise Gardening by Janet Smith

11 a.m. – Seasonal Color Year Round by Diana Harris

12 noon – Composting by Jane Bartosiewicz

1 p.m. – Turf Management by James Hatcher

All classes are free and open to the public. Pre-registration is requested by calling the Community Recreation Center at 972-247-4607.

For more information, call 972-919-2634.

Mistakes Do Happen

2008-03-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

You might have seen the headline in the Dallas Morning News today about the city sending the wrong paperwork to several apartment complexes, paperwork that included language asking if prospective tenants were in this country legally. It was a simple, and unfortunate, clerical error. It was unintended, and the council found out about it once the error had been realized.

I commend City Manager Gary Greer for the way he's handling this situation. Mistakes do happen. And this was nothing more than an unintended mistake.

Tim Scott

"Illegal" or "Undocumented"; Which Term Do You Think is Accurate?

2008-03-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

In a shrewd move by the pro-illegal-immigration forces and organizations, the term "undocumented worker" has begun to be substituted for "illegal alien" in news reports and debates about the illegal immigration problem we face in the USA. Organizations like LULAC use the term, the ACLU uses the term, and many other activists having chosen to use the term, while also labeling "illegal immigrant" as an offensive term.

Using the term "undocumented worker" instantly sends the message that there is nothing illegal with that individual's residency in the United States. It conveys that the any question of their legality can be worked out with a little paperwork and submission of the correct government forms. It's use is part of a strategy meant to soften the reality that those individuals are breaking the law, and are actually "illegal aliens" in the United States.

Guess who else is using the term "undocumented" immigrants? Tim O'Hare's opponent for Mayor, local realtor Gene Bledsoe. In his campaign material, he flaunts his supposed opposition to illegal immigration, but then adopts the language of LULAC, the ACLU, and other pro-illegal immigration activists. Not illegal immigrants, "undocumented" immigrants.

Do you share that view? I think I know the answer.

Tim

The Rights and Wrongs of Yard Signs

2008-03-22T13:21:00.000-07:00

If you didn't know there was an election on the near horizon in Farmers Branch, you'd realize it now based on all the yard signs that have popped up all over town. I know that candidate for Mayor Tim O'Hare and candidate for City Council Harold Froehlich have already handed out their first printing of signs, and are now filling requests with their second large batch. And all the signs placed by Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich are done so only after either receiving permission or being directly requested by the homeowner. You would assume the other candidates follow the same policy, right?

Not so fast.

Today at the Easter egg hunt at Tim and Harold's campaign headquarters on Webb Chapel, Tim O'Hare's opponent Gene Bledsoe was knocking doors across the street seeking permission to place yard signs. Curiously, he placed his sign in the yard of a vacant house that already had Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich signs. Several of the volunteers working the Easter egg hunt saw him place the sign,and one remarked: "That's my sister-in-law's house." She called her sister-in-law who confirmed that no permission had been given to Mr. Bledsoe to place the sign, and that is should be removed immediately.

This isn't the first report I've been given of Mr. Bledsoe placing his sign in the yards of vacant houses. So when you're driving through town and see a house with a Bledsoe sign, don't assume that's a Bledsoe supporter. It might just be an empty, vacant house, with an owner who wasn't given the opportunity to deny the request.

Tim Scott

Misstating Financial Figures Nothing New to Mr. Bledsoe

2008-03-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

This election isn't the first time Gene Bledsoe has misrepresented the facts regarding the city's expenditures in an effort to frighten people. Last year, he was the treasurer for a group that was against Ordinance 2903, and at a press conference he indicated that our legal budget for defending the ordinance was $700,000, when in reality, that was our entire legal budget and contained all the legal expenses for the city, and was almost double the actual budget relating to illegal immigration.

He was corrected by Charles Cox, the city's award-winning Finance Director. You can read the story here.

I guess it's a pattern.

Tim Scott

An Important Message About the Truth

2008-03-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

As you know, Tim O'Hare is committed to running an open, honest, ethical campaign. Mr. O'Hare's opponent is basing his campaign on accusations that our city is spending money uncontrollably. The truth is that we're in great shape! It is unfortunate that Tim O'Hare's opponent is trying to fool people into thinking our city's financial situation is just the opposite. Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Ben Robinson and I had to address some of these very egregious misstatements by his opponent; we felt very strongly that the good people of Farmers Branch deserve the truth. We wrote a letter refuting Mr. O'Hare's opponents claims, you can quickly access that letter from Ben Robinson and myself here:

http://www.timothyohare.com/open_letter.pdf

Please spread this information to your friends and neighbors! Know that all the figures listed in this letter were checked and re-checked with city staff, and are accurate.

Have a great Easter weekend, hope to see you Saturday at the Egg Hunt!

Tim Scott

Easter Egg Hunt This Saturday!

2008-03-20T09:48:00.001-07:00

From Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare's Blog:

There is a lot going on this week This weekend is Easter - as early as it has been since 1913! This Saturday, March 22nd, I am hosting an Easter Egg Hunt at my campaign headquarters at 13545 Webb Chapel Road at 11:00 a.m. There will be parking at the building, as well as at Webb Chapel Church of Christ and at Webb Chapel Baptist Church. All children are welcome. Adults, too. Please bring your kids, grandkids, neighbors, friends, relatives - the more the merrier! We will have a coloring contest, hunts for different age groups and special drawings for prizes. The event is FREE of charge.

This will be a chance to meet new friends, have a good time with your children and their friends and to enjoy the great weather we are expected to have after yesterday’s monsoon. We will also have a special visit from the Easter Bunny before he makes his rounds on Saturday night/Sunday morning.

See you on Saturday at 11:00!

Mississippi Governor Signs Illegal Alien Bill

2008-03-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

Mississippi now has a law requiring all employers to verify the legal residency status of all workers in the state of Mississippi. Penalties for the employer could include the cancellation of state or public contracts. Those convicted of violating the new law could be sentenced to up to five years in prison or fined up to $10,000. The illegal immigrant also would be deported.

Let's hope our representatives in Austin are paying attention to what is happening in state's all around us.

Tim Scott

The Dallas Morning News Changes their Headline...

2008-03-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

So, after a representative from ICE called the Dallas Morning News to tell them their story was wrong, and that the city of Farmers Branch was indeed in the 287(g) program, the editors at the paper made some minor changes to their story, and changed their headline to "FB Officer to Get Immigration Law Training."

I guess they just can't bring themselves to use the same language and enthusiasm to tell the truth about our city. Yesterday, it was the harsh and definitive language of the headline "Farmers Branch Denied!" When confronted with the truth, the respond with the dainty and innocuous "FB Officer to Get Training." Not "Farmers Branch the First Metroplex City Accepted in 287(g)."

I haven't seen a hard copy of the paper today (I don't subscribe), can someone tell me if they ran another story in the actual paper today, clarifying themselves?

Tim Scott

The Dallas Morning News Gets it Wrong. Again.

2008-03-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Did you see the headline in the Metro section of today's paper about Farmers Branch and our acceptance into the 287(g) program? (Probably not, I know alot of you have cancelled your subscriptions.) No? It's because it wasn't there, it was replaced with a headline that read:

"Farmers Branch Denied Entry into Program to Identify, Deport Jailed Immigrants"

What a clever, sly way for the DMN to distort the truth. What has happened to telling the truth? Everywhere I turn, people are twisting words and misstated facts in order to deceive us. Candidates are doing it, newspaper editors are doing it...when did people quit being honest?

I'm going to tell you the truth. The truth that the Dallas Morning News reporter heard in our City Council study session last night, and even mentioned in the second sentence of the article that directly refutes the headline.

The Federal Government has a program called 287(g) that allows non-federal law enforcement agencies to partner with ICE to identify and deport illegal immigrants. There are two components of this program: one that would place one or more ICE agents on-site with a local or state criminal detention center, and one that would train and empower local law enforcement to perform the investigations into suspected illegal aliens and begin the deportation process.

The City of Farmers Branch requested to be a part of 287(g) about 18 months ago, filled out all requisite paperwork, and waited. And waited some more. We were finally told that ICE didn't have the budget dollars to satisfy all the requests they had received for participation in 287(g), and that while we wouldn't get to participate in the program which placed an ICE agent on-site at our local jail, we would get to participate in the program where an FB Police Detective would be trained and empowered by ICE to investigate illegal aliens and begin the deportation process.

We were not "denied entry into the program" as the DMN wants you to believe. That's like saying I had wanted to by a ticket to a Dallas Cowboys game to sit in section 110, but instead got a ticket to sit in section 114, and the DMN running the headline "Tim Scott Denied Ticket to Cowboys Game." Very misleading.

Under the 287(g) program, we will have an FB Police Detective trained by ICE, who, in addition to their normal duties, will have full authority to carry out ICE investigations on the status of suspected illegal immigrants, and will represent FB in a joint ICE Task Force in the DFW Metroplex.

This will be on top of aggressive utilization of the CAP program, where each person brought to the FB Criminal Detention Center is asked about their legal residency status, and all suspected illegal aliens are turned over to ICE for processing. To date, we have handed over to ICE more than 600 illegal aliens for processing, or approximately 15% of all incarcerated individuals.

In Farmers Branch, this City Council and staff are maximizing all avenues available to us to enforce the law and make our city safe.

And we're telling the truth.

Visit Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare's Blog

2008-03-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

Tim O'Hare has an excellent blog post today about the Mayorial campaign and about our efforts to continue our fight against illegal immigration in our city. Take some to time to go read it, here's the link.

Tim Scott

US city plans moat to keep out migrants

2008-03-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

This is interesting: an approach to securing the border that keeps out illegal border-crossers and brings back the natural landscape and wildlife that has been lost.

Tim Scott

Arizona Bill Makes Renting to Illegals Unlawful

2008-03-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

FB isn't alone. Here's the link.

Welcome into the pool, Arizona.

Tim Scott

The Word is Getting Out

2008-03-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

All of us who live in Farmers Branch know what a wonderful community we have, and I wanted to share an email I received from a prospective resident that concisely summarizes where we are as a city. We have such a strong foundation of neighborhoods, parks, and city services, and are on the cusp of an explosive renaissance in line with our most aggressive dreams. Here's what I take from this letter:

1. The word is getting out. Farmers Branch is on the rise.
2. We still have work to do, and that's why its imperative that we continue to market the city, and work with home owners and developers to help them be successfil.
3. This election is of paramount importance. The last thing we need is a Mayor or City Council member who doesn't share the vision of FB, and would rather return us to a do-nothing, "all is well" approach. We need leaders who have been involved in making Farmers Branch what is it, and what it is becoming. Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich.
4. Notice the line "As soon as I gave them these details their eyes lit up." People are excited when they hear what is happening in our city. We're on the right track, and we need to stay on it, full speed ahead!

Enjoy.

Tim Scott

From a Prospective Citizen:

"We are meeting a second time with a Branch Crossing builder today to look at his house. My wife was impressed with Branch Crossing, the near by parks and highway access. I just learned of your city's hospital/medical authority and new medical contract. Farmers Branch is a "forgotten gem" based on our conversations with Dallas friends over dinners and events this week at the Mansion on Turtle Creek and Fearings/Ritz.

"For your information and use -- Many of our friends are trying to discourage us
from considering Farmers Branch because they said that time has passed Farmers
Branch by 10-15 yrs ago. It was hot 25 years ago but now Farmers Branch is just
an old community that is regressive and not progressive. They all read the media
about the immigration issue and that has negatively affected their opinion of
Farmers Branch ---even though they agree with the position of Farmers Branch. None
of my friends who own businesses in Dallas and or Plano and other lifelong
dallasites knew about the recent news articles within the past 10 days
about the developments between Galleria to Mercer Crossing and the planning for
train service between Frisco and Irving via Farmers Branch...
As soon as I gave them these details their eyes lit up.

"Our local friend's opinions and reaction to Farmers Branch reminded my wife and
I of the reaction we received when we relocated to Los Angeles and asked friends
about locating at Marina del Rey community. Everyone including real estate
"experts" discouraged us from considering Marina del Rey because it was a
depressed and run down community etc. After we went to Marina del Rey, we
quickly realized that none of these folks apparently have recently visited the
new Marina del Rey with multi million dollar condo buildings and new shopping
centers etc etc...To this day many Beverly Hills and West /Brentwood Los Angeles
residents still look down on Marina del Rey because they do not know better.

"All of this to say that I highly recommend Farmers Branch to continue to invest
and probably increase funds to market/publicize the renaissance of Farmers
Branch using the internet, internet videos and routine marketing tools. I also
would recommend to have training sessions in the future with DFW real estate
agents (especially those who work with relocation clients) in order to educate
them on the new Farmers Branch.

"If we can negotiate a fair price for the house, we hope to be Farmers Branch
citizens."

Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich Yard Signs

2008-03-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

What a great kick-off party we had last night! We filled up the Stars Center!

I'm sure you've seen Tim O'Hare and Harold Froehlich yard signs begin to pop up around town, if you want some for your yard, we're happy to deliver them! Send me an email at: scott.timothy1@tx.rr.com, and I'll make sure you get some for your yard.

Have a great week, Tim

Farmers Branch Partnering With Neighbors on Potential Rail Line

2008-03-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

This is exciting. Check it out. Another rail line that would run straight through Farmers Branch.

From the article:

For Farmers Branch, the line would serve a just-announced 300-acre retail, commercial and residential development to be built in the Mercer Crossing area, near interstates 35E and 635 and the Bush Turnpike. The first phase will be a Mediterranean-inspired town center with plazas, gazebos, parks, fountains and walking trails around a lake.

"We're going to be having thousands of people living and working in that area," City Manager Gary Greer said. "If we can provide them with some commuter access, that's going to be helpful to us and to the development."

Tim Scott

Tim O'Hare's Kick-Off Party

2008-03-06T08:43:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you've already heard, but I want to remind everyone of the Kick-Off Party that Tim O'Hare is throwing this Saturday at the Dr Pepper Stars Center. This is going to be a great event, with BBQ, a live band and a few speakers. Bring the whole family.

It this Saturday, March 8th, from 6-8 p.m., at the Farmers Branch/Dr Pepper Starcenter, at 12700 Stemmons Freeway.

See you there!

Tim Scott

Study: Illegal Immigration Costs Millions

2008-03-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

Not suprising. Here's the link.

Tim

GOP Senators to Introduce Tough Illegal Immigration Law

2008-03-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

Not sure what chance this has of ever getting to the floor of a democratic-controlled Senate, but it could be interesting. Highlights include:

* Block federal funding to cities that bar their police from asking about immigration status.

* Give the Department of Homeland Security the authority to use information from the Social Security Administration to target illegal immigrants.

* Require construction of 700 miles of fencing along the southern border, not including vehicle barriers.

* Impose sanctions on countries that refuse to repatriate their citizens.

* Deport any immigrant, legal or illegal, for one drunk-driving conviction.

* Enable local and state police to enforce federal immigration laws.

Happy Primary Voting Day.

2008-03-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone goes out and votes today. Freedom and democracy only work when you exercise them.

Busy Days in Farmers Branch!

2008-03-03T08:30:00.000-08:00

Everyone should go read Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare's recent blog entry regarding all the great things that are happening in Farmers Branch, and his involvement and leadership in them.

Tim's role in redeveloping Farmers Branch cannot be overstated, and is one of the biggest reasons he needs to be our next Mayor.

Tim Scott

New FB Logo: Memo from Gary Greer, City Manager

2008-02-28T06:36:00.000-08:00

I love our new Farmers Branch city logo. I think it effectively illustrates all we are as a city: a nice mix of homes and commercial districts, surrounded by parks and trees. I think it symbolizes who we are as a city, and where we're going.

I've heard some concern about the costs associated with the logo change. As is so often the case, those concerns include costs that are greatly inflated. City Manager Gary Greer prepared a memo last week outlining the history behind the logo change, the reasons the logo change was pursued, and the real costs associated with the transition and implementation across the city. You can read that memo here.

The bottom line: the city will spend an estimated $177, 235.35 over the next three years to introduce our new image. That's roughly $59,000 a year.

Money well spent.

Tim Scott

New Developments in Farmers Branch

2008-02-27T11:56:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the new townhome development on Alpha Road, just off Midway? It's fabulous, and the perfect example of the exciting projects we have underway in Farmers Branch. Drive by and take a look, and if you know anyone looking for a new townhome, bring them along.

More information about the townhomes can be found here.

Also, we have a great new apartment development right across from the Galleria called Broadstone Parkway. It's right on Galleria Drive, and I bet you didn't realize it was in Farmers Branch. This is an outstanding development, with state-of-the-art amenities, and an unbeatable location. You can learn more about it here.

I've said it before, but I'll keep saying it: Great Things Are Happening in Farmers Branch!

Tim Scott

Farmers Branch & Icon Partners Announce 300-Acre Development

2008-02-26T06:36:00.000-08:00

This is exciting.

Icon Partners announced today that they have agreed to develop a 300-acre shopping, residential, and business complex here in Farmers Branch. Mercer Crossing - approximately 1,100 undeveloped acres in Farmers Branch roughly bordered by LBJ, I-35, and the George Bush Tollway - is the largest empty section of Farmers Branch, and is well on its way to being a signature retail destination and premium office and residential choice. The Dallas Morning News story about this announcement is here, the press release from Icon Partners is here.

The first phase of this new development is a 500,000 square foot development that will sit on a fabulous new lake, with construction beginning before the end of the year. This phase will be a Mediterranean-inspired, lakefront town center, with plazas, gazebos, parks, fountains, and walking trails.

"The announcement of the Shops at Mercer Crossing is a great day for Farmers Branch. This is the kind of world class development that will bring excitement, money, energy and people from all over to Farmers Branch," stated Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare in the press release from Icon Partners. "On behalf of the Mayor and City Council, I express our great enthusiasm and optimism for this project, because our residents have been longing to be part of a high quality development like this for a long time."

A development like this has far-reaching effects. First, it provides retail, dining, and recreational options to our citizens. Second, it increases our tax base, which allows us to provide more services to our citizens, and third, development chases development, and this exciting project will lead to more exciting projects across the city.

"This will happen quickly," City Manager Gary Greer said, "we are not messing around."
That about sums up this Council and City Manager's philosphy. Let's get things done for our citizens.

See you at the ground-breaking.

Great things are happening in Farmers Branch!
Tim Scott

High Profile Intersection: Valley View and Webb Chapel

2008-02-25T07:09:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

I receive almost daily questions about the soon-to-be-removed house at the Southwest corner of Webb Chapel and Valley View, and what will happen to that lot. The city owns that property, as well as the property at the corner of Nestle and Valley View, and sold the houses to a company that is relocating them. One of this council's goals is to build upon the great foundation we have in our wonderful parks, and continue to accentuate and improve the aesthetic beauty of our city. We are going to use these lots as landscaped "parks" that further beautify our city, and continue to build our brand as a "city in a park." These lots won't be parks in the sense that they are designed to be visited, but instead will showcase landscape features that will be visibile to the tens of thousands of people who drive down our major east-west roadway on a daily basis. It's exciting, and the type of thing you will see more and more of going forward.

Have a great week!

Tim Scott

Choose Your Friends Wisely

2008-02-22T09:05:00.000-08:00

Local realtor Gene Bledsoe announced yesterday that he is running for Mayor of Farmers Branch, challenging widely popular Mayor Pro Tem Tim O’Hare. I worked closely with Mr. Bledsoe when we were members of the Branch Revitalization Task Force, and have definite opinions about why he is the wrong person to lead this city, and why electing him would undermine all of the exciting progress we are making. But there’s time for that.

Today I want to call attention to Mr. Bledsoe’s relationships and campaign confidants.

Mr. Bledsoe is quoted here saying that our citizen’s stance against illegal immigration wouldn’t benefit the city, and would simply be “buying swimming pools for lawyers.” The lawyers he’s referring to are from the law firm of Bickel and Brewer, who bankrolled the opposition to Ordinance 2903 last Spring, and were soundly defeated at the ballot box. Bickel and Brewer represent multiple lawsuits filed against the city, and rely heavily for PR on their former Director of Communications, Travis Carter. Mr. Carter was also the leader of the ill-fated opposition to Ordinance 2903, the one Bickel and Brewer funded. Well, at Mr. Bledsoe’s press conference, guess who was at his side, giving advice and crafting his message? Travis Carter.

So while mocking the city for defending itself against frivolous lawsuits, Mr. Bledsoe is receiving counsel and support from the very people bringing these lawsuits.

So who’s side is Mr. Bledsoe really on? The vast and vocal majority of the citizens of Farmers Branch, or the self-serving law firm repeatedly suing the city? I know which side Mr. Bledsoe is on, though I’m not sure he even realizes it. And that’s even more troubling. Welcome to the Bledsoe team, Bickel and Brewer.

Also lending support at the press conference was previously unsuccessful City Council candidate Jose Galvez. Mr. Galvez was the candidate propped up in last Spring’s elections by activist and convicted felon Carlos Quintanilla. You remember Mr. Quintanilla, the organizer of multiple protests against Farmers Branch, and noted scofflaw, who was arrested on multiple outstanding warrants in Dallas County when trying to lead a protest against the city of Irving. Welcome to the Bledsoe Team, gentlemen.

It’s no secret that Mr. Bledsoe has met repeatedly with business owner and Dallas resident Elizabeth Villafranca to discuss ways to thwart this City Council’s desire to carry out the mandate of our citizens. Mrs. Villafranca was also lending her support to Mr. Bledsoe at his press conference. Mrs. Villafranca is an outspoken critic of Farmers Branch, and was the President of the Farmers Branch chapter of LULAC, until she resigned during last year’s election campaign, partly due to the fiasco of filing a sworn affidavit and perjuring herself, accusing me of intimidating her and scaring her young daughter. (You can rehash that charade here.) It was a total lie, the first of several. When my attorney tried to get her under oath to tell the truth, she dodged the subpoena like a squirrel dodging cars on a busy street. Welcome to the Bledsoe team, Mrs. Villafranca.

This is an important election for farmers Branch. Maybe the most important, because the foundation has been laid for the incredible hometown we all want: more parks, more retail, more development, all within the fiscal security of our pay-as-you-go budget. We don’t need a Mayor who takes advice from the very outsiders who have consistently put the will of the people in their cross-hairs and pulled the trigger, disparaging our citizens and wasting our time.

Mr. Bledsoe is the wrong candidate for many reasons. Who he’s listening to and who he’s serving is one of the biggest.

Tim Scott

Developers Marc & Roger Andres: We've Got a Spot for You!

2008-02-21T08:44:00.000-08:00

This article in the DMN outlines the frustration that Henderson Avenue developers Marc & Roger Andres are facing trying to transform an abandoned grocery store into a vibrant mixed-use development. Marc and Roger: We have just the place in Farmers Branch! We'd welcome you with open arms.

Tim Scott

Everything's Coming Up Roses in FB

2008-02-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

So that I don't get charged with Obama-style plagarism, I will declare up front that this information is lifted verbatim from the City of Farmers Branch website. I hope everyone can participate!

It may be the dead of winter, but that’s prime time for planting roses in the new National EarthKind Trial Garden and Display Garden which has been under construction at Gussie Field Watterworth Park, at Valley View and Dennis Lanes, near Farmers Branch City Hall. Now that the ground has been prepared, the community is invited to come out and help plant the roses on Friday, February 22nd between the hours of 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Parks Landscape Manager Pam Smith is asking anyone interested to let them know you’re coming by calling 972-919-2620. She said if everyone will bring their workgloves, the City will provide tools and – more importantly – lunch. Ms. Smith said more than 700 roses will be planted for the garden that will test for the environmentally-friendly EarthKind roses and display known performers that will include the past five years of All American Rose selections.

Beyond planting day, there are many volunteer opportunities for both a one-time or ongoing basis. For more information on the event or the gardens, please call Pam Smith at 972-919-2620.

Happy President's Day!

2008-02-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

Here's hoping in the near future our great Nation finds selfless leaders in the mold of Washington and Lincoln.

Tim Scott

Do You Know You Can Dedicate a New Street Sign?

2008-02-15T05:49:00.000-08:00

As part of our beautification initiatives, we are replacing our existing street signs with new, decorative ones that will add character to all our neighborhoods. Currently, you can find these street signs in Branch Crossing, and at residential intersections on Josey and Webb Chapel. Our plan is replace ever street sign over the next several years, but you can get one on your street right away, and honor someone close to you in the process. Go here for information.

Tim Scott

Texas State Lawmakers to Consider Laws Similar to Oklahoma

2008-02-14T05:44:00.000-08:00

The state of Oklahoma passed sweeping illegal alien enforcement laws last year by huge margins, and so far they have stood up in court. One of the questions I receive the most is "why can't the State of Texas do the same thing?" There's a story today that indicates that legislators in Texas are planning to do just.

Call your representatives and show them your support.

Tim Scott

"What are you going to do, deport twelve million people?!?"

2008-02-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

One of the things that opponents to enforcing the immigration laws of the United States often shout hysterically is "What are you going to do, deport twelve million people?" The answer - always met with derision and mocking - is "we won't have to." Well, here's evidence from Fox News that we really won't have to: Illegals Begin Leaving Arizona as New Law Approaches.

UPDATE: Here's more info.

Tim Scott

More and More, Courts Upholding Local Immigration Laws

2008-02-10T18:01:00.000-08:00

I am no fan of the New York Times, but here's an interesting article about the legal trend developing for state and local governments passing immigration laws and ordinances. Is the tide turning? Let's hope so.

Tim Scott

UPDATE: Here's my favorite quote, from Judge Payne of Oklahoma:

“These illegal alien plaintiffs seek nothing more than to use this court as a vehicle for their continued unlawful presence in this country,” he wrote. “To allow these plaintiffs to do so would make this court an ‘abettor of iniquity,’ and this court finds that simply unpalatable.”

We're Getting Used to This

2008-02-06T06:44:00.000-08:00

Well, we got sued again, and by the usual suspects, Guillermo Ramos and the law firm of Bickel and Brewer. To comment on it other than to say that it's the most ridiculous waste of paper imaginable would give too much credence to it. It's shocking how void of merit this suit is. But a little worthless lawsuit isn't slowing us down from carrying out the will of the people and bringing substantive progress to Farmers Branch. We're all still at work this morning.

By the way, our attorneys received an actual copy of the lawsuit from the press, not from the plantiff or his attorneys. There's no question what their motives are.

Tim Scott

I Support Harold Froehlich for City Council, Place 2

2008-02-04T06:53:00.000-08:00

I support Harold Froehlich for Farmers Branch City Council, Place 2. Harold is an outstanding candidate to represent the citizens of Farmers Branch. He and his wife, Kathy, have lived in FB for twenty years, and have been very invovled in the community, volunteering with Boy Scouts, PTA, and youth sports. They have a son currently enrolled at RL Turner, and a son serving in active duty with the United States Air Force.

I have spent time discussing our great city with Harold, and am convinced he is the best person for this job at this time. His love for FB and his vision for what it can become is something that all of us agree with. He's pro-revitalization, tough on crime, and an ardent supporter of our efforts regarding illegal immigration.

Harold has more than More than 35 years of Financial and Business Experience with Major Financial and Real Estate Institutions, and understands the complex nature of redevelopment and neighborhood revitalization. He is a Commissioner on the Farmers Branch Planning and Zoning Board, and is a member of both the Farmers Branch Rotary Club, and the Farmers Branch Chamber of Commerce. Harold is the only candidate for Place 2 endorsed by myself, Councilman David Koch, and Mayor Pro Tem Tim O'Hare.

Please visit Harold's website here to learn more about him and his plan of action for Farmers Branch.

U.S. District Judge Decisively Upholds the Right of Cities to Enforece Immigration Laws

2008-02-01T12:58:00.000-08:00

Here's what the Dallas Morning News isn't reporting on, choosing instead to focus on the racial politics of beans: In a landmark ruling handed down on January 31, U.S. District Judge E. Richard Webber decisively upheld the right of local governments to enforce laws against illegal immigration by denying business licenses to employers who hire illegal aliens. Judge Webbers ruling rejected every argument presented by the American Civil Liberties Union and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund challenging Valley Parks authority to suspend the licenses of businesses that employ illegal aliens.

Lead Counsel for Valley Park is Kris Kobach, who recently consulted on drafting Farmers Branch Oridnance 2952.

You can read more about it here and here.

UPDATE: THE DALLAS MORNING NEWS DID MENTION THIS RULING IN FRIDAY'S PAPER.

Have a great weekend,
Tim Scott

This is What You Get from Washington

2008-01-30T10:17:00.000-08:00

Our Federal Government is tinkering with providing an "economic stimulus" package to citizens to help jump-start the economy. If this does move forward, it would contain no provision barring payments of between $300-$1200 to illegal aliens. You can read about it here. And more here.

If you want your Federal elected officials to start enforcing exisiting immigration laws, you need to start shouting louder. Obviously they aren't listening.

Tim Scott

UPDATE: CONGRESS VOTES TO CLOSE THE LOOPHOLE ALLOWING ILLEGAL ALIENS TO RECEIVE CHECKS.

Becoming a U.S. Citizen: The Federal Government Has to Get Quicker

2008-01-28T08:59:00.000-08:00

Here's an Associated Press story about a demonstration today at the Dallas U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office protesting the long delays in processing applications by legal residents to become U.S. Citizens.

It's amazing to me how so many U.S. companies can process enormous amounts of seemingly trivial data on a daily basis, and yet our Federal Government consistently underperforms on similar tasks of much great importance.

Tim Scott

It's the Little Things

2008-01-28T07:40:00.000-08:00

The reasons I love Farmers Branch are almost all captured in the little things that you don't normally see or think about. This morning I awoke to a leaking hot water heater in my hallway, so off to Lowe's to get a replacement. I was asked where I live, because each city has different set code amounts that have to be paid when replacing a hot water heater. In Dallas, that amount is $67. In Farmers Branch, it's $25.

Farmers Branch: where each citizen gets more for less. I love it.

Tim Scott

Links for Friday

2008-01-24T20:08:00.000-08:00

The campaign season is just around the corner, here's some interesting reading for your Friday.

In mayoral run, O'Hare's focus is Farmers Branch development

This is an interesting article about the effect of illegal immigration in urban areas. One finding to note is this:

Former mechanic Anderson felt the effects of low-wage immigrant competition in his old line of work. “I used to sell parts to body shops, and I knew Americans who were making $20 an hour repairing dented fenders,” he says. “Now, 95 percent of South Central L.A. body-shop jobs are held by recent immigrants making $7 or $8 an hour.” Says Joe Hicks, former chair of Los Angeles’s Human Relations Commission and now head of the nonprofit Community Advocates: “It’s hard to find a black face on a construction site or in a fast-food restaurant around here any more. People from the black community have noticed.”

Carlos Quintanilla is making the rounds again, you can learn more about him here and here and here.

FB Landlords to Work Closely With City

2008-01-24T14:22:00.000-08:00

I can't emphasize enough how strongly I and everyone else on the council feel about the need to work closely with our exisiting and future landlords to ensure the process of executing Ordinance 2952 is quick, easy and painless, and won't hamper their ability to rent/lease their properties. We're all committed to this, and the city staff has done an excellent job of partnering with them to get their input and imprint on the process.

Here's a note about this from today's Star-Telegram.

http://www.star-telegram.com/dallas_news/story/429304.html

From the article by Patrick McGee:

""We're going to work with the city to try to develop a streamlined and efficient process whereby landlords can get an immediate license and answer on the spot," said Brian Tusa, director of development for Alliance Communities."

Tim O'Hare Announces Run for Mayor

2008-01-24T06:39:00.000-08:00

Tim O'Hare has officially announced that he is seeking the office of Mayor of Farmers Branch. He made the announcement this morning on 570 KLIF, and is set to be on KRLD today at 10:00am, and the Mike Gallagher Show on 660 KSKY on Tuesday, January 29th.

Tim O'Hare is the right leader at the right time for Farmers Branch. Exciting things are happening, much of them directly due to his leadership and hard work on behalf of the citizens of our city. Tim O'Hare is uniquely qualified to lead this city to new heights.

Here's the text of an email Mr. O'Hare emailed last night to supporters.

Friends:

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that your 2008 is off to
a great start. I wanted all of you to be the first to know about my
plans. It is with tremendous excitement that I am announcing my
intention to run for Mayor of Farmers Branch this May.

As many of you know, I was born and raised in Farmers Branch and love
my hometown. I believe the future of Farmers Branch is as bright as
it has ever been. During the last three years, we have laid the
foundation for a period of revitalization and redevelopment in our
community that will position us for success for many years to come.
It is an exciting time for Farmers Branch. We are on track for the
future, and I want to help us stay on track by leading us for the next
three years as your Mayor.

I had a good conversation with Mayor Bob Phelps, who has told me he
will not be seeking re-election. He is a fine man and is to be
commended for his many years of service to Farmers Branch.

Together, we can help Farmers Branch be one of the safest cities in
the Metroplex, continue to enjoy a very low municipal tax rate,
maintain and enhance our city services and continue to beautify our
wonderful city. Farmers Branch is a special place, and I hope I can
count on your support.

Please visit my website at www.timothyohare.com, where you can read
about my goals for the city, as well as other information that you may
find useful. We have a strong team of volunteers, but we will gladly
add you to our list. I will be updating my blog every week from now
until the election. I hope you will check it out and give me your
feedback.

Thank you for allowing me to serve you over the past three years. I
hope you will allow me the honor and privilege of serving you as Mayor
for the next three.

Call me or e-mail me anytime with your thoughts, ideas and
suggestions. Thanks again for your support.

Sincerely,

Tim O'Hare
Mayor Pro Tem
Candidate for Mayor, May 2008
City of Farmers Branch
972-484-6980

Thanks to Everyone Who Participated Last Night

2008-01-23T11:36:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who came out and spoke at the City Council meeting last night. It's great to see citizen participation in the affairs of the city.

Great things are happening in Farmers Branch! It's exciting being a part of that, and I am thankful to each of you for getting the opportunity to represent you and to aggressively drive the agenda you overwhelmingly support.

Let's keep the momentum going!

Tim Scott

Proposed Ordinance 2952

2008-01-18T07:38:00.000-08:00

The City Council will consider a new proposed Ordinance relating to rental licenses in Farmers Branch at the meeting on Tuesday, January 22nd. The meeting will begin at 6:30pm. Here's a link:

http://www.ci.farmers-branch.tx.us/CityCouncil/2008/Regular%20Session/2008-01-22-Regular%20Session.pdf

Highlights of the proposed ordinance include:

-Anyone wishing to lease a house or apartment in Farmers Branch must apply for a residential occupancy license from the the ciy and provide information about legal U.S. residency.

-Landlords would not be responsible for verifying the legal residency status of potential renters; that responsibility would lie entirely with the federal government

-The proposed license fee would be $5 for each adult occupant, and would be valid as long as the occupant remains at that residence

-Anyone violating any provisions would face a daily municipal fine of up to $500.

Exciting Developments in Farmers Branch!

2008-01-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

There were two huge decisions coming out of last night's City Council Meeting. For the past several years, the citizens of Farmers Branch have been demanding redevelopment of our retail areas and increased retail options. Today, we are one step closer to realizing the vision for new, vibrant retail and mixed use developments in our city.

First, Provident Realty Advisors secured the rezoning of the area along LBJ Freeway between Josey Lane and Webb Chapel Road, the first step in that area transforming from outdated and nearly-empty office buildings to a variety of useful (and needed) development options, potentially including restaurants and retail. This is a good thing.

Second, Icon Partners was named as the city's development partner for our DART Rail Station area. This is very exciting, as the potential impact this area will have on the city cannot be overestimated. We've been talking about the DART RAIL Station development for years, and the city has done meaningful work preparing for this development. It's time to make this a reality.

It's an exciting time to be in Farmers Branch! The best is yet to come.

Tim Scott

Thank You

2008-01-09T07:19:00.000-08:00

One of the things we're now doing in Farmers Branch that I'm really excited and proud about is the honoring at City Council Meetings of individuals serving in our Armed Forces when they are home on leave. The sacrifices these individuals make so that all of us can live a life of freedom and liesure are something none of us should take for granted. They deserve our appreciation and respect.

Take time to find a way to thank everyone who is away from their loved ones, so that we can live with ours.

Tim Scott

Dallas Morning News Texan of the Year: Two Weeks Later

2008-01-08T06:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a great summarization of the backlash the DMN has received for their Texasn of the Year choice, as well as a breakdown of their explanation for their decision. It's a good read.

http://michellemalkin.com/2008/01/08/dallas-morning-news-wow-people-are-mad-about-our-illegal-immigrants-as-texan-of-the-year-editorial/

Four Corners Master Plan

2007-12-31T08:20:00.000-08:00

One of the most important issues to almost every citizen I speak to is redevelopment at the Four Corners, the interection of Josey and Valley View. Bringing renewed retail and restaurant options to Farmers Branch in this area is a top priority to this council, and one that we feel is vital to out city. If you haven't already reviewed the Four Corners Master Plan, you can do so here. Know that this council and the city staff are working hard to make the vision of a vibrant "downtown" in the center of our city a reality.

Tim Scott

The Dallas Morning News Does it Again

2007-12-29T15:07:00.000-08:00

I'll let you draw your own conclusions about their choice of Texans of the Year. You can probably guess how I feel about this ridiculous decision and corresponding pandering article. Oh, sorry, I was going to let you draw your own conclusions.

My favorite sentence: "Especially here in Texas, his strong back and willing heart help form the cornerstone of our daily lives." Huh?!?

Update: Here's a great response to the DMN's feature.

Tim Scott

Great Article About FB History and Paul Daft

2007-12-28T09:04:00.000-08:00

There's a great article in today's DMN about volunteer Paul Daft and his devotion to Keenan Cemetary. Keenan Cemetary is quite a historical treasure for Farmers Branch, please take the time to read the article, and send a note along to Mr. Daft thanking him for his years of service to the heritage of our town.

Tim Scott

Have a Merry Christmas!

2007-12-21T06:16:00.000-08:00

Great things are happening in Farmers Branch! Thanks for your energy and support in making Farmers Branch the best place to live in the Metroplex.

Enjoy your families during holidays, see you in 2008.

Tim Scott

Pharr's Christmas Extravaganza

2007-12-18T16:53:00.000-08:00

In addition to the fantastic lights at Holiday in the Park, we have another Christmas treat right here in Farmer Branch. If you haven't been by to check out the Christmas Extravaganza at 14535 Southern Pines Cove, you need to drop everything and do it tonight.

Ken Pharr has put together an extraordinary display of Christmas lights that are synchronized to music. How big is this display? Over 90,000 individual Christmas lights and 6.75 miles of
extension cords. Wow.

Mr. Pharr wants as many people as possible to view this display. He is also collecting non-perishable food and toys for donation to Metrocrest Social Services. To date, he has collected over 400 pounds of toys and food, and $200 in cash.

You can find out more about the display at www.pharrschristmas.com, and here's a video clip of an interview Mr. Pharr did with WFAA Channel 8.
Merry Christmas!

Tim Scott

FB to Welcome all Service Members on Leave

2007-12-17T12:11:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow night at the scheduled Farmers Branch City Council, the Council would like to welcome and recognize all individuals who are on leave from serving overseas in the U.S. Military. Private Chad Hall of the United States Army will be on hand, and I would welcome any and all other current U.S. Military Personnel who are Stateside to come to the meeting so that we can offer our thanks for their efforts and dedication.

If you are aware of any U.S. Military Personnel who are enjoying a well-deserved leave this Holiday season, please send me an email, and have them attend tomorrow nights City Council Meeting at 6:30pm.

And this Christmas, when you're enjoying time with your family and friends in safety and security, remember all those who have served and sacrificed so that we can live in freedom and peace.

Tim Scott

FB Fallen Officer Memorial/New Fire Station Sculpture

2007-12-14T13:03:00.000-08:00

There are two important projects in Farmers Branch that each citizen can play an instrumental role in completing.

On August 27, 1983, Farmers Branch police officer L.C. Tribble was killed in the line of duty. Although vigorously investigated, this murder remains unsolved. And while we are very thankful that no other officer in Farmers Branch has lost their life while serving the community in the 24 years since, we should never forget that these courageous men and women put their lives on the line on a daily basis. To honor fallen Officer Tribble, and all the men and women who place themselves in danger for each of us, we are constructing a Tribble Memorial on the grounds of the Justice Center, at the corner of Valley View and Marsh. This picture is an artist's rendering of the memorial.

The other group of individuals who lay their lives on the line for the sake of others are our firefighters. We have an outstanding group of men and women serving in our firefighting corps, and as a key aspect of our new, state-of-the-art fire station opening in January, we want to include a sculpture in their honor. This sculpture will be dedicated to all the brave individuals who pull on the firefighters equipment and charge into dangerous places in order to save the lives of anyone in peril. I think you will agree that this is an outstanding statue, and is a perfect fit in Farmers Branch. We have a committed and hard-working group of individuals responsible for the outstanding sculptures you see around town today. I want us to have the resources to fill our town with artwork that beautifies the city, and speaks to the high esteem we hold for the ones who make our lives and lifestyle possible.

If you would like to contribute to either the Tribble Memorial, or the Firefighter sculpture, or both, please send a check to:

Farmers Branch City Hall
Attn: Cindee Peters, Tribble Memorial/Firefighter Sculpture
13000 William Dodson Parkway
Farmers Branch, TX 75234

Thank you!
Tim Scott

Liberty Plaza Dedication - Pictures

2007-12-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

The flag at Liberty Plaza is raised!

The dedication and ground-breaking of Liberty Plaza last Friday was a great event. Many thanks and congratulations to Traci Leach and the rest of the City staff for pulling this event together! If you haven't been by to see the flag, you need to drive over and see it for yourself. It's quite a site, at 30ft x 60ft, flying high above what will be a signature park for the city, and standing as a beacon for Farmers Branch.

I've put several pictures up of the flag from last Friday, you can find them here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/28996689@N00/sets/72157603452633639/

Great things are happening in Farmers Branch!

Tim

Judge Dismisses Monetary Damages Claim

2007-12-12T07:11:00.000-08:00

You are all well aware that the City of Farmers Branch has been invovled in several lawsuits relating to the passage of Ordinance 2903. There are multiple plantiffs, including the owners of the Villas at Parkside apartments. This plantiff was seeking monetary damages, claiming that the talk of the ordinance was driving potential residents away and hurting the business. During last May's election, the opposition to Ordinance 2903 (and the lawyers at Bickel and Brewer) boasted long and loud that this ordinace would cost the city millions of dollars in legal fees and damages. Well, yesterday, Judge Lindsay ruled that the plantiffs are not entitled to receive any monetary damages. This is great news.

You can access the opinion here:

http://clearinghouse.wustl.edu/chDocs/public/IM-TX-0003-0006.pdf

Tim Scott

Liberty Plaza Groundbreaking Event

2007-12-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

I want to invite everyone to come to an exciting event in Farmers Branch this Friday: the flag dedication and groundbreaking for Liberty Plaza! This new park is located directly behind the Dallas Stars Center, and will be the first thing people see when riding into Farmers Branch on the soon-to-arrive DART Train. Here's the press release issued by the city with the details, hope to see you there!

“Texas-sized” U.S. Flag to be dedicated at Liberty Plaza Groundbreaking ceremonies December 7December 5, 2007

Unfurling on a 150-foot pole, a 30 by 60-foot American Flag will be the centerpiece of the patriotic tribute to be known as Liberty Plaza, an entryway to the City of Farmers Branch that will be seen for miles.

Everyone is invited as Mayor Bob Phelps and the City Council will be on hand to dedicate the flagpole and to break ground for the future development of Liberty Plaza on Friday, December 7 at 10 a.m., at the site, 12300 North Stemmons Freeway, just south of the Dr PepperStarCenter, where parking for the event will be available. Future expansion of Liberty Plaza may include a water feature, walking path, artwork, meditation areas, trees, landscaping and more.

Arrests of Illegal Immigrants Double in DFW

2007-12-05T06:14:00.000-08:00

From today's DMN, new ICE fugutive operations teams more than doubled the aount of illegal immigrants in North Texas during the last fiscal year. Last year, ICE made 606 arrests, this year, that number surged to 1,635. Here's the link:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/120507dntexice.de9b.html

Seems like a nice move forward for ICE. Bear in mind ICE is so overburdened they can't accept all the illegal immigrants turned over to them via the CAP program.

And this last week from the Austin American-Statesman: Half of all Foreign-born immigrants in Texas are illegal.

http://www.statesman.com/news/content/news/stories/local/11/29/1129immig.html

According to the article, half of the 3.5 million immigrants in the State of Texas are here illegally.

Tim

Enforcing Our Laws: A Unifying Issue

2007-11-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

77% Oppose Giving Illegal Aliens Driver's License

The hot topic of the Presidential Primaries these days has been reaction to Governor of New York Eliot Spitzer's plan to give driver's licenses to illegal aliens. The Washington Times has this story today, and a poll that shows on this issue, Republicans and Democrats both agree: Gov. Spitzer's plan is a bad one.

"Voters oppose driver's licenses for illegal aliens by a nearly five-to-one margin, a new Fox 5/Washington Times/Rasmussen Reports poll finds. Licenses fared poorly across party lines, including near-blanket opposition among self-identified Republicans, at 88 percent. Among independents and Democrats, it was still overwhelmingly unpopular, drawing 75 percent and 68 percent opposition, respectively."

http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071106/NATION/111050098/1001&template=printart

Newspaper Circulation Fading

2007-11-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

I've expressed my opinion about the Dallas Morning News on this blog previously, and wanted to share this link I came across today about the shrinking circulation of the Nation's newspapers. Almost all of the top twenty-five newspapers in the country are bleeding circulation, and only the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the San Diego Union-Tribune had a bigger plunge in weekly circulation in 2007 than the DMN, which was down 7.68%, from 404,652 to 373,586.

http://www.editorandpublisher.com/eandp/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003667952

The People Have Spoken, Their Representatives are Responding

2007-11-02T07:12:00.000-07:00

Utah Sen. Bill Hickman: "We're developing two different groups in society - those that have to obey the law and those that don't. Society can't function very well that way."

Here's an article about the rise in State legislation aimed at enforcing this Nation's immigration laws.

http://www.reuters.com/article/email/idUSN0118499720071101

Mr. Ingram: Bring Your Projects to Farmers Branch!

2007-11-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/
latestnews/stories/110207dnmetbuilding.2d82b9f.html

Read this article about the experience one developer had working with the City of Dallas. It would be unbelievable, if it weren't so believable.

Think it's not important to have a City Council, City Manager, and City Staff all on the same page, with the same goals, moving in the same direction? Try telling that to Mr, Ingram, and then ask him if he's ever building another project in the city of Dallas ever again.

Mr. Ingram, I think you'd find the city of Farmers Branch far easier to deal with, with departments that are aligned and cohesive, and staff that provide honest, timely answers. We'd welcome you.

Tim Scott

Farmers Branch Community Meeting

2007-10-31T07:47:00.000-07:00

The Farmers Branch Community Meeting is this Thursday at 7pm at the Senior Center. This is a great opportunity to come and hear about all that is happening in FB, to provide feedback, and to ask questions of the Mayor, Council, and Staff. Everyone should attend, and come ready to contribute and participate!

Come early! We expect a BIG crowd, and want you to be involved.

For more information or updates, call 972-247-3131 or log on at www.farmersbranch.info.

Tim Scott

Criminal Alien Program: Enforcement in FB

2007-10-12T07:17:00.000-07:00

Much has been made in the media lately about Irving's participation in the CAP program, which stands for Criminal Alien Program, and is a process of partnering with ICE to turn over all individuals who are detained at the City jail and are illegally in the United States. What you haven't heard in the media is that Farmers Branch has been participating in this program as long as Irving, with great success. Tim O'Hare has great information about the Farmers Branch CAP effort at his blog:

www.timothyohare.com/blog/

Farmers Branch is committed to doing everything we can to uphold the law of the United States!

Have a great weekend,
Tim Scott

Dallas Morning News: Creating Controversy Where None Exists

2007-09-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

I've just about had it with our local paper.

This week two articles on Farmers Branch were featured, one about the removal of images of violence and nudity at the library, and one about the City Council's request for CFBISD to provide a list of FB students attending schools. Both very straight-forward issues.

But the DMN used three photos to illustrate the story about the violent art, two of which were not included in the pieces that were removed from the Manske Library. Those two pieces were not violent or controversial, but their inclusion in the piece made it seem that the motivations of the city were unfounded and based more on censureship. Totally irresponsible on the DMN's part.

And the article today about our request for a student list...where do I begin? First, this city council has made it clear from the start that we were going to puruse all avenues to find creative solutions to the opportunities we face as a city, among them code enforcement, revitalization, and of course, education. We have FB students who feed into three different school districts, and who attend a plethora of private and pariochial schools. If we are going to offer ideas and solutions about education, we need information.

Simple, right?

But wait! In a section of the article titled "Speculation," The DMN goes and gets a sitting School Board Member to say that our request for information "could be" about the immigration issue, and that the City Council isn't "proud of its motivations." Even though that school board member has no idea why we're asking for the list, and the DMN reporter had a clear, concise understanding from me exactly what my motivations are. Speculation: it's what hard news is built on.

But my motivations don't fit the DMN's controversial story template, so they have to ignore them completely and instead find others who can assign more sinister motivations to me.

Like Hector Flores, ex-LULAC President, who says that any information "could be used for profiling and selective use of code enforcement," and then says that somehow we are going to "target" children. Here's the quote: "What wrong have these children done to deserve this – because they're Hispanic and their parents might be here without any documents? Shame on those that would retaliate against children."

Huh? What is he talking about?!? Did anyone say anything about retaliation against children? And more importantly, DID OUR REQUEST FOR INFORMATION SAY ANYTHING ABOUT LOOKING FOR ANYTHING RELATED TO HISPANICS? It didn't. It wasn't even implied. This has nothing to do with Hispanics, but that doesn't stop the DMN from including a ridiculous quote in their article saying it did.

This is why the politcal discourse in America has sunk to the level that it has. Irresponsible journalists don't bother to cover an issue with truth and objective reporting, they seek to exploit every possible situation as the next big controversy, and go and find self-serving "experts" to say whatever they want to drive their personal agenda, regardless of how innaccurate it is.

The good news is that I trust the vast majority of you who are reading this feel exactly the same way, and know to put your "truth filter" on when you read things in print.

Have a great week,
Tim Scott

Code Enforcement: It's What the People Want, and We're Doing It

2007-09-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

I am excited about the progress we are making with code enforcement. Here's a link to an article in the Dallas Morning News that does a nice job of outlining our increased efforts.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/city/carrollton/stories/091407dnmetfbcode.2cf0d6e.html

Tim Scott