In the popular novel, The Hunger Games, heroine Katniss describes District 8 "as an ugly, urban place stinking of industrial fumes, the people housed in run down tenaments, barely a blade of grass in sight." ~ Sound familiar?
As Arlington, TX turns into an industrial zone, we'd like to introduce you to a candidate who is running for the At-Large Council seat in our very own District 8.
Frisco resident Charla Hawkes Vinyard running for Arlington, TX City Council??
First, let's talk about that proposed zoning change for
Overcoming Faith Drill Site which is still tabled ~ most likely until the elections are over. Mind you, it is crystal clear that a gas drilling site is not compatible with the vision for the Tierra Verde overlay. A future development for high-end exclusive homes is planned for that area. Nevertheless, here is how Frisco resident, Realtor, and Arlington Planning & Zoning member, Mrs. Vinyard, voted on that case:
Also in question is her eligibility to run for Arlington City Council when she has dual residency. Even if she is eligible, we question 1) Is this ethical? and, 2) Will she be able to focus on Arlington's complex issues when she lives in Frisco?
Here is what the Fort Worth Star Telegram says about Charla Hawkes Vinyard:
"The Star-Telegram reported late last month that Hawkes Vinyard apparently violated state law by claiming two homestead exemptions."
"One of the homes is at xxxx Bever Blvd. in central Arlington. She lists that address on her voter registration, her professional real estate licenses and her application to be placed on the May 12 general election ballot. The home is valued at $141,000."
"She has also taken a homestead exemption on a house valued at about $610,000 near Lewisville Lake, according to public records."
"David Weaver, a commercial and bankruptcy lawyer, said reports that Hawkes Vinyard previously claimed two homestead exemptions -- for homes in Arlington and in Denton County -- raise questions about where she really lives... "It's not about me. It's about the process and whether the city is going to follow it or not."
To read the full story click on this LINK.
Perhaps Mrs. Vinyard spends the majority of time by her Lake Lewisville home because she doesn't like living in Arlington's industrial zone. We don't either. We wonder if there is an extra guest bedroom for our
Fish Creek neighbors when Chesapeake starts the fracking nightmare all over again.
Casting your vote does make a difference.
When you cast your vote think about whether your choice of candidates will help beautify this city or slowly transform it into a post-apocalyptic scene like that in the Hunger Games.
For voting information click
HERE.
For additional voting information call (817) 831-VOTE (8683).
