Wilmer Citizen Activist

Let's Make Wilmer a Great big SECRET

2012-01-05T08:42:00.000-06:00

Former "resigned in disgrace" mayor Jeff Steele continues his journalistic endeavors and forays into social networking with the facebook group "Let's Make Wilmer Great!". Unfortunately, after hearing from a few people with opposing views, Steele kicked them all out, closed the group and made it secret - not very conducive to promoting the community's interests at large.

It seems the group started with the description that included "taking Wilmer back" but that was updated fairly early on in the lifecycle of the group. At one point during the holidays, Steele asked all the members of the group to invite as many folks as possible to participate in online group activities. Evidently, the suggestion to direct the group's attention to focus on one particular member was considered "abuse" and that's when the situation began to take on the character of a junior high school clique.

One member and all her posts were removed by Steele, two other member were booted off the group for being nay-sayers, but at least initially, their posts were allowed to stand. There were seventeen remaining members at this point following these expungements.

At this point Steele announced that the group had been purged of naysayers and was now closed so that only members could comment. He also made the group SECRET which restricts anyone not a member from seeing the page as well as eliminating the page from search results. Very odd behavior for someone trying to rally public support to re-take Wilmer politically.

What happens next is interesting: Now that the group was CLOSED and SECRET, former mayor Steele invited a number of folks to join the group and a number of them accepted: Alice(& J?) Holloway, Vicky Vandygriff, Anita Camehl, Eric Pon Victor Kemp, and Ellis County Press reporter Megan Gray. Of course, whomever rejected his invitation to join the group wasn't listed, but there was obviously someone that did not accept as Steele commented that he'd inadvertently invited a naysayer to the group. Fortunately, this reporter was not expunged at that time.

Vicky Vandygriff took the opportunity to comment about the upcoming City Council Meeting and budget workshop on 5 January. She commented, somewhat sarcastically, on having a productive 15 minute workshop and then stated that there wouldn't be a workshop. Whether she planned not to attend, to disrupt the workshop, or immplied that the content of the session wouldn't be workshop material is unknown. However she did publicly state that the Budget Workshop would not happen. Upon disclosing this information to City Hall, this reporter's access to the group was also eliminated.

So it seems that Mayor Steele is content to have his core supporters networking together on facebook to make their plans for the takeover and domination of the political subdivision called Wilmer. It's a good thing we've got members of our local police force watching this group - but it does look bad for those civil servants still answerable to the public and dependent upon taxpayer support to be recruited by former-resigned-in-disgrace-mayor Jeff Steele for his political ambition of re-taking the town. It's a good thing all those blackberrys, smart phones, computers and stuff owned by the city are subject to open records so we can see what our taxpayer dollars are subsidizing and what kind of online activities are considered necessary expenses and appropriate uses of time. Then we can clean house.

Mayor Steele's New Blog

2011-11-03T20:02:00.000-05:00

Former Mayor Jeff Steele has a new blog at itrustbutverify.blogspot.com (Click Here)

Apparently former Mayor Steele believes the budget posted on the City's website isn't true and complete as passed and or filed with Dallas County.

Pioneer Days October 14-16

2011-10-05T14:42:00.000-05:00

The City of Wilmer Pioneer Days Celebration begins Friday October 14 at 6:30PM.

Click Here to View the Flyer

Events Friday Saturday and Sunday!

MAYOR STEELE RESIGNS

2011-09-16T00:31:00.001-05:00

Last night, Thursday, September 15, 2011 at 9:21pm Jeffery Steele resigned as Mayor of the City of Wilmer. The City Council scheduled action on the Mayor's resignation at the next City Council Meeting on September 19.

Apparently, the move was not a complete surprise to everyone. Vicky Vandygriff had a motion to accept Steele's resignation and appoint Hector Pena to the position. Lacking adequate notice for City Council action, the matter of the mayor's resignation and potential appointment of an interim mayor must wait for the September 19 meeting.

More News to come....

Agenda Wars: The Initial Flames

2011-09-06T16:38:00.003-05:00

Open Records Requests produced this email exchange between Mayor Steele and Alderman Pena regarding motions, agenda scheduling issues and authority. Note I've added my comments in blue and used bold to highlight important passages in the email. I invite readers to make their own assessments of the personalities involved and the issues to be resolved.

Thank you Alderman Pena for your timely response to my open records request. I will "re-order" the emails in ascending chronological order so that a historical timeline is evident. Through the use of colors, formatting and bolding I will highlight areas to which my comments will be addressed.

I appreciate that Mayor Steele has asked for my opinion based on the research I've completed thus far into the city's records.

The Agenda for the July 7, 2011 Meeting in question can be found at cityofwilmer.com:
Click Here to View the Agenda of July 7

============================

from hpena@cityofwilmer.com
to joealdrich@gmail.com
date Sat, Aug 6, 2011 at 3:11 PM
subject FW: Re: Agenda Items For Special Called Meeting Monday, July 11, 2011

Joe, here is the email you asked for.

-----Original Message-----

On Jul 8, 2011, at 3:11 PM, hpena@cityofwilmer.com wrote:

Dear Mayor Steele:

As voted on and passed by council on the July 7, 2011 meeting to hold a Special Called Meeting Monday, July 11, 2011, below is a list of Agenda Items to be placed thereon:

A. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER THE RESIGNATION OF CITY SECRETARY ALICE HOLLOWAY. (ACTION AS REQUIRED)
B. EXECUTIVE SESSION: PURSUANT TO TEXAS GOV’T. CODE §551.074,
( A) (1) PERSONNEL: TO DELIBERATE THE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, EVALUATION, REASSIGNMENT, DUTIES, DISCIPLINE OR DISMISSAL OF A PUBLIC OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE: CITY SECRETARY MARCUS SMITH.
C. EXECUTIVE SESSION: PURSUANT TO TEXAS GOV’T. CODE §551.074,
(A) (1) PERSONNEL: TO DELIBERATE THE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, EVALUATION, REASSIGNMENT, DUTIES, DISCIPLINE OR DISMISSAL OF A PUBLIC OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE: APPOINTMENT OF CITY SECRETARY/ADMINISTRATOR.
D. ANY ACTION NECESSARY AS A RESULT OF THE EXECUTIVE SESSION.
E. DISCUSS AND CONSIDER RESOLUTION NO. 0711-11 DESIGNATING THE AUTHORIZED SIGNATURES FOR ALL CITY BANK DEPOSITORY ACCOUNTS REMOVING ALICE HOLLOWAY FROM ALL CITY BANK DEPOSITORY ACCOUNTS AND ADDING A NEW CITY SECRETARY. (ACTION AS REQUIRED)
F. REVIEW AND CONSIDER AMENDING THE 2010-2011 BUDGET CHANGING THE CITY SECRETARY LINE ITEM TO READ CITY SECRETARY/ADMINISTRATOR.
(ACTION AS REQUIRED)

Sincerly,

Hector Pena
Mayor Pro-Tem
There is Pena's request for a special meeting, claimed as a result of a council vote on Madrigal's motion. I would call Alderman Pena's attention to the statutory requirement for a City Secretary and a City Ordinance mandating a City Administrator are two different functions and cannot, by law, be combined.

From: "Mayor Steele"
Sent: Friday, July 8, 2011 10:36pm
To: "hpena@cityofwilmer.com"

Subject: Re: Agenda Items For Special Called Meeting Monday, July 11, 2011

I am happy to discuss these items with you. Especially city secretary.
Is there a candidate name?
The Mayor has stated he is aware of numerous candidates for the position. The appropriate venue for discussion is in an Executive Session to deliberate on the candidates. The fact that two people occupy the position currently must be resolved before considering or naming a replacement.

i dont understand you stating there was a vote for a special meeting.
Did you have a vote.
Where was it located?
At the meeting, the motion Alderman Madrigal put to a vote was abbreviated by the Mayor in his restatement when the vote result was called and may not have accurately reflected Alderman's actual statements. Mayor Steele is attempting to ridicule Alderman Pena's assertion, denying the original motion's existence, rather than its' validity.

What is the grounds of discussion for marcus smith?
Is there reason to discuss an officer of the city that i have not heard one council member state any grounds to intimidate an employee of the city?
Why does the Mayor refer to intimidation, when none is implied or intended? Indeed, is this not more self relevation, Mayor Steele inserting his bias into the motivational aspects of Alderman Pena's request? The grounds for discussing Smith have everything to do with his position and contract as City Secretary - the Mayor should notice the personnel action discusses "City Secretary Marcus Smith" referring to the fraudulent contract executed by the Mayor at the City Council's direction. Smith was an employee before the contract and still will be after the contract is quashed. He just won't have any claim to the statutory position of City Secretary.

There is not a position of city administrator so I dont understand this
item. your item e is redundant.
According to Wilmer City Codes Section 2-6 there is by ordinance a City Administrator position, although it is temporarily unfilled and the Mayor has assumed the duties, responsibilities, and authorities thereof, whether or not specifically empowered by statute or ordinance.

The secretary can be authorized to sign at time of appointment.
Prior banking signatory authorizations have been completed by resolution of the City Council, appointed boards must make resolutions approving any change in bank account administration. Fiduciary procedures require the City Council act in order to change the banking signatories, as they are the empowered authority of funds for the municipality.

Finally, you item f dealing with the budget will have to be researched. As i understand any change of the budget requires notice and possible public hearing. I will check and you can too
Mayor Steele's understanding of budgetary process is less-than-rudimentary and definitely non-compliant, but this time he errs on being overly cautious. Conducting a regularly noticed city council meeting is all that's required for a budget amendment, just like last year in case the Mayor has forgotten.

Last thing Mr Pena, if this is your idea of leadership, i can only hope that you see the errors that you are making because you are in for a rude awakening by these actions.
What are you trying to do to this city by these immature and irrational actions? I suggest you pick up a book and read it, perhaps the local government code for starters.
The Mayor's belittling comments are Arrogant and Insulting. There is an implied threat by the Mayor of a rude awakening. I would suggest the Mayor look in the mirror for immature and irrational actors in the city government and brush up on his own reading comprehension skills. I understand his best use of the Local Government Code is to hurl it across the City Hall at Mr. Pena.

Jeff Steele

-----Original Message-----
On Wed, Jul 20, 2011 at 6:07 PM, hpena@cityofwilmer.com wrote:

Dear Mayor Steele:

In response to your email wherein you have questions regarding a simple email directing items be placed on a Special Called Meeting agenda which, in my humble opinion, you have no authority to question, I will attempt to answer as briefly as possible.
Sorry Mr. Pena, everybody has a right to question - statute gives three aldermen the right to call a meeting of topics of your choosing in LGC 22.038(b)

These items are not up for discussion with you or anyone else outside of council chambers in a meeting. The Attorney General for the State of Texas has determined that the presiding officer (you) are not authorized to control the content of the agenda, even though by statute you are the presiding officer. Under LGC 22.037(a) By statute and by virtue of our position, any one council member may place any item on the agenda for discussion and action if they so choose. No Reference

As to a Special Called Meeting. I call your attention to the motion made by council woman Madrigal and seconded by myself, passed with a 3-2 vote, wherein the motion was:
I make a motion to approve the consent items with the exception of any legal bills for City Attorney, any City Secretary appointed, interim or otherwise until we can set up a time to appoint a City Secretary that we can work with and possibly have a Special Called Meeting on Monday July 11, 2011 to appoint a City Secretary with action as necessary.

You were present at the meeting, presided over the meeting, and called for the vote of the council on this very motion. It is a fact at this point, you have once again failed and ignored the will of the majority of council and did not call a Special Called Meeting. Am I to exercise my right as Mayor Pro-tem and call the meeting myself, do you leave me another choice? Under LGC 22.037(c) There were no other legal motions that could be taken on the agenda you posted, typed and signed wherein you listed all other agenda items to be "(Discussion Only)" with no other line items for action necessary as a result of executive session. Therefore, any other actions, motions and votes taken after the above motion are null, void and invalid. The motion stands.
??? Evidently there's some disagreement between the Mayor and Alderman Pena on the Motion as passed by the Council!!!
Didn't the Executive Session proceed out-of-order and occur immediately after the discussion of consent items was initiated? Or did any action on the consent items get deferred? The only action item on the agenda was consent items - the only other item that could have resulted in an action would be the motion for adjournment. [ED NOTE: See the Link Above for the Agenda]

Marcus Smith is not to be discussed outside of council chambers and call your attention to 551. Mr. Smith is a personnel matter and shall be dealt with as such. Basic GC 551 compliance on employee matters If you perceive intimidation, no intent is made. Question Mayor how many employment agreements for the position of city secretary were signed and issued to employees?
I have two in my possession, one for Marcus Smith and one for Alice Holloway.

Please Mayor Steele, place items A. thru F. on the August 4, 2011 agenda that I previously emailed to you on July 8, 2011 for the special called meeting on July 11, 2011.

The governing body may change the budget for municipal purposes Mayor Steele. A simple change in wording. Post the agenda items and call the meeting Mayor Steele.

Blatant disrespect and disregard for the council members will not be tolerated by this council as long as I am a part of it. The high handed actions you are exhibiting could be construed as intentional unlawful behavior including an intentional or corrupt failure, refusal, or neglect to perform a duty imposed on you by law. And that would be the definition of official misconduct under LGC 21.022(4)

From: "Mayor Steele"
Sent: Thursday, July 21, 2011 12:15pm
To: hpena@cityofwilmer.com

Subject: Re: Agenda Items For Special Called Meeting Monday, July 11, 2011

Mr. Pena,

First , I would like to address what you are assuming to be the authority that you have. The authority in which you have is null by yourself. It is only within a quorum of the governmental body in which you are a member vote on an issue. I am trouble by your lack of comprehension of the will of the council. You state there was no further action after executive session but sir, you are mistaken. After reconvening into open session, Mr. Turner moved to pay the Interim City Secretary. The motion was seconded by Vicky Vandygriff. The vote was 3-2 in favor of the motion.

As to the special meeting, I direct you to your own words of the motion,
"POSSIBLY have a special called meeting" Mayor Steele has a point on the verb used at the time, once the motion was followed with a written request, intent was clarified and the agenda items should have been accommodated in either a special or regular meeting. Intent of the majority was declared during the meeting. The follow-up email clarified that. Or not as you wish Mayor.
Your refusal to not speak to me and discuss what your issues with the secretary and city attorney are cowardly and immature. You have no authority to call any meeting whether you are mayor pro temp or God himself. I refer you again sir the the Texas Local Government Code.
More rude belittling commentary regarding Alderman Pena. Amusing the use of the phrase "refusal to not speak" which should mean you're getting an ear full! The incredibly blasphemous proclamation from the Mayor assuming authority over God for control of his precious meeting agenda. What else can I say except to remind Mayor Steele that I myself have un-called some of his meetings and unhinged an agenda item or two in the months leading to the election!

As to the governing body may change the budget. If the budget officer of the city (which is me )
The above sentence fragment is unintelligible and redundant.

Sec. 22.042. POWERS AND DUTIES OF MAYOR. (a) The mayor
is the chief executive officer of the municipality. The mayor shall at all times actively ensure that the laws and ordinances of the municipality are properly carried out. The mayor shall perform the duties and exercise the powers prescribed by the governing body of the municipality.
(b) The mayor shall inspect the conduct of each subordinate municipal officer and shall cause any negligence, carelessness, or other violation of duty to be prosecuted and punished.
(c) The mayor shall give to the governing body any information, and shall recommend to the governing body any measure, that relates to improving the finances, police, health, security, cleanliness, comfort, ornament, or good government of the municipality.
(d) The mayor may administer oaths of office.
(e) In the event of a riot or unlawful assembly or to preserve the peace and good order in the municipality, the mayor may order and enforce the closing of a theater, ballroom, or other place of recreation or entertainment, or a public room or building and may order the arrest of a person who violates a state law or a municipal ordinance in the presence of the mayor.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 149, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.

Sec. 102.001. BUDGET OFFICER. (a) The mayor of a municipality serves as the budget officer for the governing body of the municipality except as provided by Subsection (b).
b) If the municipality has the city manager form of government, the
city manager serves as the budget officer.
Acts 1987, 70th Leg., ch. 149, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1987.

In summation I will say, how dare you accuse me of intentional unlawful behavior and you or Joe Alderich may visit and speak to me on your issues.

I observed no accusations from Mr. Pena, although he mentions the possibility of an appearance of intentional (mis)conduct. The second rule of disinformation is the Mayor's oft used "how dare you" ploy; it has no effect on matters of fact.

[ED NOTE: "2. Become incredulous and indignant. Avoid discussing key issues and instead focus on side issues which can be used show the topic as being critical of some otherwise sacrosanct group or theme. This is also known as the 'How dare you!' gambit." from 25 Rules of Disinformation at http://www.whale.to/m/disin.html]

My observation is that Mayor Steele maintains his ignorance of propriety and the obligations of his office to the detriment of the City and the taxpayers. IMHO it amounts to "Criminal Stupidity".

And I thank Mayor Steele for inviting me to share my comments on his issues with you all. I would remind the Mayor that I will speak on these and any other issues I may have regardless of Mr. Pena's stance on matters, although I'd prefer not to subjugate myself to a personal visit with the Mayor!

School Zone Speeding Ticket? Apply for a Refund!

2011-08-19T17:06:00.002-05:00

Wilmer Citizen Activist, in public information requests has determined that the City of Wilmer has prosecuted 529 individuals for the crime of "Speeding in a School Zone" to the tune of $165,852since Wilmer Academy began operation in August 2009 - WITHOUT an ordinance creating a school zone. YOU COULD BE DUE A REFUND AND CLEANED DRIVING RECORD.

What if the City Council never adopted an ordinance declaring a school zone and just threw up some new signs and started issuing tickets and collecting money? What if the City did declare just one School Zone in an ordinance - where the old elementary school is on Walnut Street - but definitely not on Belt Line or Dallas Avenue where you got your ticket?

This is EXACTLY what happened, the charter school came in, new school zone signs were erected near the intersection of Belt Line Road & Dallas Avenue, the old signs were removed from Dallas Ave, Walnut Street and College/Kissell. The ordinance declaring the Walnut Street school zone was left intact, nothing was repealed, no new ordinance was created to replace the existing school zone ordinance.

"Unlawful Prosecution" doesn't even rate as a crime, but this situation is definitely one of unlawful prosecution because there is no violation of law. The depth of the collusion implicates both the entire Municipal Court and Police Department - as well as any attorney acting to prosecute the charges. Obviously, this is just a mere oversight, a clerical error, an exigent circumstance to be waived away as a minor inconvenience. We all know ignorance of the law is no excuse - that applies equally to those who uphold the law as well as those who violate it.

At a minimum, we've discovered egregious violations of due process rights for at least 529 individuals - roughly equivalent to one-in-six Wilmer residents!

This is nothing less than racketeering, an ongoing criminal enterprise, denying the citizens of due process, unlawfully collecting penalties for non-violations, defrauding the tax payers, generally obstructing justice and intentionally tampering with government records. Couple this with an unknown number of additional charges and a few custodial arrests and the potential liability claims of the victims of the City's unlawful acts are extreme.

As a potential victim, you have a choice of whether to join a class of similar victims in a class action against the City of Wilmer, or complain to the criminal authorities about the civil rights violations. Then there's always the State's Victim Fund.

Having discovered the current state of the City's finances, any class action litigation probably wouldn't net enough funds to cover the cost of litigation. Besides, any settlements are going to have to come out of the taxpayers' pocket - probably your own pocket eventually.

There are a number of remedies which seem appropriate in this matter:
EXPUNCTION - fix the victims's driving & court records eliminating the conviction,
REFUND any fines, fees & court costs,
CEASE the enforcement of school zone speeding and remove all the signs from the streets.

THEN perhaps the City can work on actually solving the legal dilemma by writing a new school zone ordinance and repealing the old one. Whatever the resolution, it's never going to be enough in my mind to adequately compensate the victims of this travesty for their time, money and continuing expense in increased insurance premiums, not to mention the emotional trauma and other damages sustained by the City of Wilmer's capricious administration.

Aug 18 City Council Meeting - NO BUDGET!

2011-08-15T20:50:00.000-05:00

Here it is the middle of August only 45 days before the end of the fiscal year and the Mayor hasn't submitted a budget workshop agenda. We are running out of time and this week's meeting is packed with rehash topics and single source contracts.
Click Here to View the Agenda Online

The proposed budget that comes out of the budget workshop for public inspection is required to be available (sit on the clerk's desk) for 30 continuous days before it can be acted upon. During that time, the budget is made available for public review and public hearings are scheduled so that there is plenty of time to review the budget and make appropriate public comments. Any revisions as a result of the public hearings should be made before the revised proposed budget is acted upon by the city council for approval or rejection or revision. The entire process has to be completed before the City makes its' annual tax levy as the tax revenues should be reflected in the budget's ad valorum tax income. Our current fiscal year ends September 30, when all of these tasks must be completed.

Other local governments have completed or scheduled budget workshops this week. The City of Seagoville completed their workshop on August 6 and have published the proposed budget for review online.
Combine's budget workshop was completed on August 12.
Ferris holds their budget workshop today August 15.
Lancaster concludes their budget workshop tomorrow August 16.
Greenville Texas is waiting until the 19th to hold their budget workshop.
The City of Hutchins scheduled budget meetings could not be determined online at press time.

We'll be looking for a Called Meeting before the first of September.

Dual Office Holding - The May 19 Conspiracy

2011-08-11T12:18:00.005-05:00

The Mayor and past City Council, with the complicity of City Secretary Alice Holloway did evade and ignore the Dual Office Holding prohibitions in the Texas Constitution and violate Texas Government Code Section 574 as a result of deliberations in an Executive Session during the May 19 City Council Meeting.
See Our Documents Online Section at the end of this Article for copies of all the documents.

As a result of deliberations in CLOSED Executive Session with the City Attorney, the City of Wilmer conferred, by ordinance, dual offices on Marcus Smith in violation of Article XVI, Section 40, of the Texas Constitution and Texas Government Code Chapter 574 Dual Office Holding prohibitions. The City, engaged in fraudulent employment contracts, awarding the City Secretary job to both Smith and Holloway and obligating the City's funds on all contracts beyond the current fiscal period. As a result, employment agreements were executed with Marcus Smith enjoying the positions of City Secretary by contract - and Fire Chief and Code Enforcement Officer by appointment statement and oath.

Mayor Steele has maintained that the signing of the employment agreement with Marcus Smith as City Secretary was merely a clerical error and has refused to deal with the issue. However, since Alice Holloway occupied that position at the time the agreement with Marcus Smith was executed, a fraudulent contract was executed with both Smith and Holloway at the direction of the City Council - without the advice of the City Attorney. The fact that until the acceptance of her resignation as City Secretary at the August 4 City Council meeting, Alice Holloway retained some statutory standing as City Secretary, clouded by the contractual claim held by Marcus Smith. The expenditure of taxpayer funds for an interim replacement while allowing two conflicting claims by contract as well as statute doesn't seem to fit any reasonable standard of accountability.

Judicial action on dual office holding violations requires an "emolument" be received in more than one position. Perhaps Alice Holloway receives some benefits from Wilmer while serving in her new post, a cell phone perhaps or Internet device or service, an insurance benefit, anything of value? We have no idea what kind of severance package she may have enjoyed.

The City may claim Marcus Smith is not, does not and will not assume the duties of the City Secretary, however, the City has not invalidated his employment contract. The City may claim the Marcus Smith received only one salary as Fire Chief although the executed contract clearly indicates his salary as City Secretary. The City Administration may have planned this as part of some "fraud conspiracy" as there is no enabling ordinance or authority for a fire department nor fire chief in the City of Wilmer and one way to ensure Chief-Enforcer Smith's continued employment would be to execute a contract for a position authorized by statute.

The City also furnishes a take home vehicle for Smith's use. All of Smith's "code enforcement" activities are conducted using this vehicle. Mr. Smith obviously uses this taxpayer furnished resource outside the confines of his official duties as we've all seen him shopping and other errands while driving the vehicle. No matter, the mere fact that the City furnishes a vehicle for his convenience while acting as the "unpaid" Code Enforcement Officer constitutes an "emolument" by most standards.

Public Information Requests regarding Mr. Smith's financial records with the City of Wilmer have thus far only yielded expenses in the role of Code Enforcement Officer. There have not been any other records yet returned as the result of our public information inquiries. Interesting to note that although the City furnishes a vehicle for Mr. Smith's take-home use, Smith's expense reports show he uses his personal vehicle and receives a mileage allowance when traveling on the City's business for training. Strange that one would choose to use a personal vehicle rather than one supplied by one's employer for job related travel unless there was a pecuniary gain or advantage.

The dismissal of Fire Chief/Code Enforcer/Secretary Marcus Smith might seem to solve the immediate problem. Unfortunately, the collusion among the city council and other city officers to defraud the taxpayers (by contract) and violate the Texas Constitution (GC 574, PC 39.02) by naming one person to two of the four "officer positions" created by ordinance is an unavoidably intentional and willfull act not in accordance with statute or other law.

The City then executed two Oath and Affirmation statements for Mr. Smith's dual offices in the official government documents in the public record. Certainly, our elected officials have every right to claim ignorance of the law - although perhaps criminal stupidity in this instance. With an officer of the court present the council should have received something remotely resembling competent legal counsel - which of course the council is free to ignore and stumble over statute blindly and willingly. According to the City Attorney, he didn't draft or review the contracts, so it appears that Holloway and the Council made all the clerical errors.

The good taxpayers of Wilmer demand the ouster of Marcus Smith for these reasons.

The good taxpayers also DEMAND that our elected officials pay the price for their intentional wanton disregard for the Constitution and Laws of the State of Texas which they have all sworn to uphold and by their acts violated that oath and the public trust.

Finally, the taxpayers and citizens of Wilmer demand that the City retain COMPETENT LEGAL COUNSEL to protect us from the ignorant acts of our elected officials and the consequences of these acts on the taxpayers and residents.

[ED NOTE: Some of our references in preparing this article]

Public Officers: Traps for the Unwary
Office of the Attorney General (2004)
page 3 Common Law Conflict of Interest Meyers v. Walker
pages 32-47 Dual Office Holding

Texas Government Code TITLE 5. SUBTITLE B. Ethics
Chapter 574. Dual Office Holding

DOCUMENTS ONLINE
Ordinance Declaring Municipal Officers
Smith City Secretary Contract
Smith Oath Affirmation Fire Chief
Smith Oath Affirmation Code Enforcement
Holloway Oath Affirmation City Secretary
Holloway City Secretary Contract
Burns Oath Affirmation Building Official
Burns Building Official Contract
Kemp Oath Affirmation Police Chief
Kemp Police Chief Contract

WANTED: New Mayor & New Council Members

2011-08-06T11:42:00.002-05:00

An anonymous letter arrived today, August 6, 2011 requesting that we list WANT ADS for a New Mayor and New City Council Members and publish any credentials or applications submitted for the posted jobs.
Click Here to Read the Letter!

The letter announcing these positions was addressed to the Wilmer Citizen Activist and was From "TAXPAYERS TIRED OF CITY LEADERS MISAPPROPRIATING FUNDS. VIOLATING LAWS, MAKING FALSE STATEMENTS TO THE CITIZENS. NOT REPRESENTING THE CITIZENS. AND NOT DOING WHAT IS BEST FOR THE CITY".

Both positions for the Mayor and City Council advertise the exact same qualifications in the letter we received.

"Requirements: honest, intelligent, complies with laws, financially competent, team player, willing to continuously learn, does what is best for the city, respects the citizens, represents the citizens, and resides in Wilmer. If qualified, contact the editor of this website so the editor can publish your credentials. The citizens of Wilmer will then contact you and create an immediate opening for you if you meet the requirements."

Needless to say this is a bit unusual for a job application process, but Wilmer Citizen Activist will do its' part as requested.
Bring on the credentials, applications, resumes, etc.!

Mayoral Conduct Stuns Citizens at Meeting

2011-08-05T01:48:00.002-05:00

The City Council Meeting of August 4th was a hot one indeed. The new City Council exercised it's powers and authority, questioning the accuracy of the recorded minutes, and standing firm on certain expenses - the Mayor's "lividity" was evident to everyone after ejecting two citizens, slandering a third and threatening to have Alderman Pena forcibly removed from the dais. The Mayor left the dais along with Vandygriff and Turner, leaving a seated quorum to conclude the public business.

The citizens assembled didn't appreciate the Mayor's comportment from the very beginning of the meeting. The Citizen's comments were somewhat lengthy and protracted due to a procession of complainants regarding the City's excessive permits, fees & requirements. One speaker, later ejected by the Mayor, researched the CDBG grant funds and found they could be used for water improvements and wanted the Council to have that information as there was an agenda item regarding those funds. The Spanish language petitioner with Alderman Pena translating took quite some time in relation to other speakers. At the beginning of Steele's administration the minimum residential building permit was $25, today it is $750 given the resident's accounts of statements from the City's Building Official.

After admitting in the August 4th issue of the Ellis County Press that he "paid the bills" without City Council approval to save the city $11,000 in late payment fees to the State Comptroller, Mayor Steele should have understood that there would be no "consent" on the consent items.
[ED NOTE: CLICK HERE to read our companion story "ECP: Steele Pays Bills Without Council Approval]

He joined the consideration of the two regular consent items, approval of minutes of prior meetings and the expenses items, only to have Vandygriff move to discuss the issues separately when the approval of the minutes lead to an extended discussion of their accuracy and portrayal of the events in question at the prior meetings, specifically motions and the paying of certain expenses.

It was during Alderman Pena's briefing on progress with the Water Task Force highlighting the lack of cooperation from City Hall in establishing the planning groundwork for proceeding with water improvements task force that the crowd began to percolate. One woman was ejected by Officer Sawyer at the Mayor's insistence and threatened with a citation.

Another woman seated near the woman ejected was told by the Mayor that the City has two jail cells and he was sure she had already seen the inside of them, whereupon Mr. Pena demanded an apology for such an insulting affront to a citizen among a group of citizens assembled. The mayor requested the woman apologize for "calling me a son of a bitch" whereupon again Alderman Pena remonstrated him for offensive language and Steele replied that "son of a bitch" wasn't a bad word or offensive enough to be considered disorderly conduct. The woman who had been insulted corrected the mayor and replied that she hadn't used that phrase, she just agreed with the previously ejected woman who had used the term. Steele insincerely apologized.

In short order, comments from the citizens assembled resulted in more persons being ejected from the council chambers over Alderman Pena's repeated objections. The Mayor stated that he would have Mr Pena removed if he so desired, citing some recent event in the City of Duncanville.

ED NOTE:
No reporter was present after the second citizen was ejected until the meeting recessed for Executive Session.

After returning from the Executive Session, the Mayor called for motions resulting from the closed deliberations whereupon the temporary services contract for the interim city secretary was terminated and Crystol Birdwell was reappointed to the position of City Secretary beginning August 5, 2011. Alderman Pena, retaining the floor after the vote and making additional motions as the result of the Executive Session deliberations, was then called out of order. The Mayor called for a motion to adjourn over Pena's objection and received the expected responses from Vandygriff and Turner (motion and second) and called the meeting adjourned and left the council chambers with VandyTurner in tow. However, Steele never called the question on the motion to adjourn, there was no vote, and a quorum of the City Council retained the dais and continued with the post executive session motions until they had concluded the public business, at which time the meeting was properly adjourned upon unanimous consent of the assembled quorum present.

Mayor & Past Council Violated Open Meetings Act

2011-07-29T15:58:00.002-05:00

Mayor Jeff Steele admitted in an interview to the Ellis County Press (Click Here to View the Article) that he and the members of the City Council intentionally deliberated in private to determine the appointment of Vicky Vandygriff to Matias Leal's vacated unexpired term on May 19, 2011, in violation of the Texas Open Meetings Act.

The Ellis County Press (May 26) described the open City Council meeting when Vandygriff was appointed:
"Vandygriff, after just resigning, was appointed by the council unanimously to fulfill the remainder of Leal’s term to the mixed crowd of booing and cheering."

The process Major Jeff Steele described to arrive at the post-election appointment of Vandygriff to another term constitutes a "Walking Quorum" or "Straw Poll" - intent to deliberate in private to avoid discussion in public in violation of the Act is specifically prohibited and criminal sanctions may apply, as well as voiding of whatever action was taken. Intentional and unintentional acts of Avoidance to the TXOMA have resulted in prosecutions and convictions in Texas.

To further quote the May 26 edition of the Ellis County Press regarding Mayor Steele's description of the process:

“There was no group discussion,” said Steele about the vote.
“I spoke to each one of them individually.”
“I assure you, everything has been done by the letter of the law to the T.”

By Mayor Steele's own admission, the Council conducted their actual deliberations, if any, in PRIVATE, CLOSED meetings in numbers less than a quorum to avoid public discussion and then "ratified" their previously decided and agreed upon course of action in the OPEN public meeting. One would be hard pressed to find a more "textbook like" Conspiracy to Violate the Open Meetings Act case given the Mayor's published admission, the audacity of the action undertaked in these closed deliberations and the public's reaction in response. The Spirit of the Law is not in evidence here and the Letter of the Law seems to have been intentionally mislaid somewhere.

To quote "The Open Meetings Act At a Glance" (2006) published by the Texas Municipal League:
"An official can be convicted for participating in an illegal closed meeting, even if unaware of the illegality of the meeting. It is an affirmative defense that the member or the official acted in reasonable reliance on a: (1) court order; (2) written opinion of a court of record; (3) written attorney general’s opinion; or (4) written opinion of the attorney for the governing body."

This is one of the reasons that all elected officials are required under GC 551.005 to attend and certify training completion for provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act - which by the way, both Mayor Steele and Vicky Vandygriff have certificates on file (oops, there goes culpable deniability). The same training requirements are documented in GC 552.012 for the Texas Public Information Act which none of our elected officials seem to have completed in the manner proscribed by law.

The Texas Municipal League advises:
"Despite the lack of a penalty provision, officials should be cautioned that a deliberate failure to attend training may result in an increased risk of criminal conviction should they be accused of violating the Act.".

Regardless of whether the criminal charges are pursued against the Mayor, Bell, Leal, Dyess, Turner, and Vandygriff for their complicity and enabling, at least the current City Council could act on this one violation State Law and remove the Mayor from office before any more harm is done to the taxpaying citizens of this community.

And in case any of our readers were wondering: Yes, we have verified that this type of polling is considered by the current Texas Attorney General staff to be a walking quorum and subject to criminal prosecution as of the date of publication (29 July 2011).

Some of our Open Meetings Act References from the State of Texas Office of Attorney General:

"Open Meetings 2006 Handbook"
page 5 Judicial Decisions
Esperanza Peace and Justice Center v. City of San Antonio
page 5 Attorney General Opinions

"Open Meetings Handbook 2004"
page 51 Porth v. Morgan
page 53-54 Section 551.143-551.144

"Texas Open Meetings Act Made Easy (2002)
ANSWERS TO THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS ABOUT THE OPEN MEETINGS ACT
pages 35-38 Questions #90 through #97.

FINALLY - A Solution to the Water Problem

2011-07-09T14:12:00.000-05:00

Many things can be said of the no-action city council meeting of July 6, but the Mayor and "senior aldermen" relieved themselves (pun intended) of anything to do with Wilmer's water service making progress on the problem at least possible.

There were several memorable quotes in the exchanges between Alderman Pena and the Mayor, but it was telling that Mayor Steele foisted all responsibility for solving the problem on Mr. Pena and then proceeded to castigate the voters, Mr. Pena's published opposition to the bond proposal - while emphasizing his own political agenda of connecting at Bonnie View to service the needs of the Allen Group.

WELL! MR. MAYOR LET IT BE KNOWN that there will be no solution to the water problem that includes anything to do with connecting at Bonnie View and running lines as planned in the bond package. Past Council's inability to reframe the parameters of the problem are completely at fault. Although the newly elected have not yet shown their capabilities, at least the imbecilic options presented by the past council are free to be given no consideration at all since fresh minds are engaging the problem.

The most mediocre high school graduate knows that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line, and it takes a pretty strong mathematician to prove them wrong in a Riemann Space. The epic fail of the proposed piping plan was to bring any line down from Wintergreen at Pinto or Sunrise when ultimately it was to connect to well #2 at Millers Ferry north of Pleasant Run. Any geometry student with a ruler would properly indicate the best route straight from the source, down Wintergreen and then to Well #2, rather than proceeding farther South than necessary and return back north to connect. So other than to benefit the Allen Group properties and potentially certin sitting and recently departed members of the City Council, what justifiable explanation is there for this solution?

Not to mention that "Well #2" isn't particularly functional at the moment even as a transfer station. The "well" isn't usable at all since there's no structure to support the cooling tower that is needed to cool the water drawn from the deep well - the existing pump for water transfer isn't working so great either as there have been several outages of water service in the past weeks.

So what are some of the options?
Wilmer could participate with NTCOG in the 120 plan to bring a huge main off I20 down I45 - which somehow the mayor neglected to retain as he attended those South Dallas Infrastructure meetings (see the City of Wilmer web site).
Wilmer could cooperate in regional planning for future water resources. Wilmer could eliminate their dependence on outside water and operate an self sufficient Water Department.
Wilmer could dedicate all our facilities to Dallas Water and get out of the business of losing money for the taxpayers while providing marginal service to the customers.

At least we have VIABLE options that can be considered instead of preconceived boondoggles with no apparent benefit to the public.

Mayor, Vandygriff & Council "Flip the Bird" to Voters UPDATE

2011-05-23T19:30:00.001-05:00

In an overwhelming display of hubris, Mayor Steele, Vicky and the City Council saluted the entire electorate with upraised middle finger Thursday night... figuratively speaking. Just look at the coverage on Channel 23 and see for yourself.

Click Here to View the Univision Channel 23 Media Coverage part 1

Click Here to View the Univision Channel 23 Media Coverage part 2

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ELLIS COUNTY PRESS ARTICLE WITH 9 MINUTE VIDEO
Click Here to View the YouTube Video Only.

A very self-congratulatory, brazen and smug city council convened before a crowd of at least sixty to defecate on the citizenry and push forth their "final agenda". In their wisdom, they re-ordered the agenda to consider the resignations and replacements for the Leal and Vandygriff positions on the council BEFORE considering the other agenda items. The crowd responded approvingly when Vandygriff resigned. Jean Landrum was placed in Vandygriff's vacated seat and Vandygriff was placed in Leal's seat and given another year to bolster the mayor's agenda and "represent" the people expressly against their mandate from the polls and collective better judgment. And the crowd went wild vehemently denouncing the action by the City Council, the wanton disregard for the voters who wanted Vandygriff out and the insult to the entire electorate by extending Vandygriff's term. Vandygriff's swearing in was protested so loudly in the room that the Mayor threatened to arrest folks - which got a huge laugh from the citizens assembled. When he scolded the group that "this is not a joke folks" - never has such truth been told by one so ignorant of what was being said. Nevertheless, when citizens started being escorted from the Hall, many residents left en masse with the TV cameras to take their complaints and frustrations to the streets (parking lot).

When the group reconvened after the executive session where contract deals were inked between the City and their favored henchmen which ascended to positions of becoming "city officers" - with all the privileges and liabilities that distinction entails. Vicky Vandygriff joyously, maliciously and very in-your-face to the citizens assembled - took on the task of making all the motions to create four new city officers Building Official Bill Burns, Code Enforcer and Fire Chief Marcus Smith, Police Chief Victor Kemp and provide employment contracts to those three as well as City Secretary Alice Holloway.

Evidently, the city council never read those contracts because Stan Bell stated after the meeting he didn't know what the contracts said in response to a question about contract termination clauses. A citizen pointed out that - as is typical for Stan - the meeting was over and Stan still didn't know what had happened - thank you Stan for your "service" and good riddance.

The City Council NEVER DISCLOSED the amount of taxpayer funds committed with these new employment contracts or the contract term/duration when asked by the public from the floor. Evidently, Council members were under orders not to discuss those items with the public, as disclosed by councilman Bob Turner in an after meeting conversation.

Outgoing City Council Posts May 19 Agenda

2011-05-17T13:56:00.001-05:00

Click Here to View the May 19 City Council Agenda from the City of Wilmer Web Site

UNBELIEVEABLE...

The City Council plans to modify the tax abatement agreement with Whirlpool - we don't know why or how, but this is the biggest pot of tax revenue in our district and the outgoing council is going to change something.

Your outgoing City Council is then going to create six new "City Officers" with employment contracts to protect their jobs from the newly elected council members:
BUILDING INSPECTOR BILL BURNS
CODE ENFORCER MARCUS SMITH
FIRE CHIEF MARCUS SMITH
CITY SECRETARY ALICE HOLLOWAY
MIKE HALLA (attorney) and
POLICE CHIEF VICTOR KEMP

Outgoing and definitely not re-elected councilman VICKY VANDYGRIFF will resign just days before she is unseated - the council might appoint someone to fill her last few days in office.

Then the council will accept MATIAS LEAL's resignation and most likely fill the position with - VICKY VANDYGRIFF, giving the ousted council member another year to "represent" the people.

(ED NOTE: BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS TO WATCH THE FOLKS YOU THREW OUT OF OFFICE PUSH YOUR FACE BACK IN THE DIRT FOR ANOTHER YEAR OF STEWARDSHIP UNDER THEIR WATCH - 200 to 300 RESIDENTS WOULD BE GREAT)

Mayor Endorses Candidates

2011-05-13T14:50:00.005-05:00

Well it looks as if the true colors are showing as the Mayor was campaigning with Dyess and Phinney last night at the gas stations and today the Mayor has provided a written endorsement of the John Eggen campaign candidates.

Click Here to View the Mayor's Candidate Endorsement Letter

There you have it folks, the Mayor's people with the purple signs aren't going to change anything, they're statisfied with and fully support the way the Mayor runs roughshod over the citizenry in this town gouging fees from businesses and homeowners - raising taxes just like the Sheriff of Nottingham back in the time of Robin Hood.

I guess this has become a popularity contest:
IF YOU LIKE THE MAYOR, VOTE FOR THE PURPLE SIGNS!

If you think the Mayor and his henchmen need to be replaced -
vote for Pena Madrigal and Wells.

And if you're thinking about voting for Abney... just say no.

C.A.N.T. Publishes Information for Voters

2011-05-13T12:48:00.000-05:00

Citizens Against New Taxes has published and distributed two newsletters with information that may interest Wilmer Voters.

Click Here to View the CANT April 2011 Newsletter.

Click Here to View CANT May 2011 Newsletter

Crossroads 2011 - UPDATE

2011-05-10T12:26:00.000-05:00

The John Eggen Campaign has published and distributed an update to their Crossroads 2011 Campaign Flyer.

Click Here to View the Crossroads 2011 Update
(ED NOTE: The original flyer's address panel is side-by-side for comparison with the update. Check the obligatory "paid for by" information )

Click Here to View the Original Crossroads 2011 Flyer"

Crossroads 2011 The Flyer

2011-05-07T17:35:00.001-05:00

We've all been wondering what "Crossroads 2011" on the purple candidate signs was all about and now we know!

Click Here To View the Crossroads 2011 Campaign Flyer

Voters Voters Everywhere UPDATED

2011-05-05T17:12:00.001-05:00

Who would've thought that so many people kept their permanent address at the "County Rehab" facility at Greene Road and Millers Ferry? Here's what we found for that address on the disc of Registered Precinct 3903 Voters for Dallas County.

(ED NOTE: Read the comments for more "inconsistencies" in voter registration records at Candidate's home addresses.)

Registered Voters at the Dallas County Judicial Treatment Facility 200 Greene Road Wilmer TX

MARIADELCARMEN ARCE ACEVES
WILLIAM EDWARD BERTA
FATRIA ANN CHANEY
TERRI J FREEMAN COLOCHO
LAUREN KATHLEEN DAGGS
MYESHIA NICOLE DRAYTON
CHRISTI MORGAN FORBES
BOBBIE FORD
LAUREN GRAHAM
DARREL ANTHONY HENRY
CYNTHIA GAIL HUNTER HILTON
MELISSA DYANN HINDS
KEVIN MICHAEL HOGAN
AMBER MICHELE HOOD
DEGIE RENEA JONES
ANGELISSA MARIE LEAL-ORTEGA
ASHLEY LYLES
TONYA MACK-JONES
JESSE MARTINEZ
SUSAN CAROL MARTINEZ
KIRBY CLANCY MEEKS
DIANA DAWN MITCHELL
ANNA MARIA MONSISVAIS
JULIE MARISSA JONES MORRIS
NICOLE MICHELLE NEWTON
LAURA JEAN OEHMIGEN
KRISTEN LEA PLYMAN
VERONICA LORAINE RAMIREZ
TRICENEA RICHMOND
STEPHANIE OLIVE RIVERA
ROSA CRISTINA RODRIGUEZ
AMANDA LYN ROLLER
MISTY LEE RUSSELL
BRANDY LYNN SEVERANCE
LAUREN ASHLEIGH SEVIER
SHANNAN WEBB
SPRING WILSON
TAMARA LA SHAI WRIGHT
JIMMY LEE TOLISTON
STEPHEN PAUL BRAUN JR
TERESA DAVIS

Introducing the Candidates - In Their Own Words

2011-05-04T23:34:00.000-05:00

Here are the Candidates Statements for the 2011 City Elections.
Click Name to View Candidate Statement.

Matina Abney no statement available
Jeff Dyess click to view
Candy Madrigal click to view
Hector Pena click to view
Mary Phinney click to view
Vicky Vandygriff no statement available
Robert Wells click to view

Distracted Much?

2011-05-02T15:38:00.000-05:00

Even before Early Voting in the City elections commandeered the Council Room, it seems the stewardship of the City has been "distracted". Public Hearings and Board Meetings are getting cancelled at the last minute due to "procedural error" or (perhaps) political expediency. Oops, my bad.

Just prior to the April 7 meeting of the "Board of Adjustment" aka Wilmer City Council, a letter was circulated among the council members listing a number of Attorney General Opinions prohibiting a City Council from acting as a Zoning Board of Adjustment. With no prior notice, the meeting was cancelled and the Mayor called it a "procedural error". Further he stated that the research was out of date due to a new clause (Section 211.008g of the Local Government Code) that allows a Type A General Law Municipality city council to act as a zoning board of adjustment. As it turns out, the "procedural error" referred to by the Mayor was the mandate in the statute that the Council may only act as the Zoning Board of Adjustment after enacting an Ordinance naming themselves as such. Ouch, that's some procedural error totally ignoring the restrictions in the statute - and let's not forget the City Council had already met three times this year as a "Zoning Board of Adjustment" on February 3, March 3, and March 17.

As a side note: None of the quoted AG Opinions (JM1069, LO1992056, LO1997062) has been revised or overridden since the law was last changed in September 1997.

The P&Z Board Meeting of April 19 and Public Hearing on a Proposed Lighting Ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance didn't go much as planned for the City Administration either. Alice Holloway confirmed today that the Public Hearing on the Lighting Ordinance before the City Council planned for May 5 wasn't going to be on the agenda because the ordinance was being rewritten and updated at the request of Councilman Bell AND the P&Z Secretary had stated in the minutes that the motion had passed, causing her to schedule the May 5 Public Hearing before the City Council. Myself being the only member of the public attending the P&Z meeting other than the Chairman's spouse, I knew what had transpired as did the Secretary, Chairman and Mr. Vandygriff. Mayor Steele was waiting outside the community center smoking when I departed following the meeting, so he would have immediately known the outcome had he been interested.

How could the minutes of the P&Z meeting have been a factor in scheduling the Public Hearing before the City Council on the matter? How could the minutes of the meeting have been written before the meeting?

Although the City Administration turned off the display of the document upload time stamps, they just don't get that the information is there anyway. The document time stamps from my downloaded copy of the May 5 Public Hearing Notice on the Proposed Lighting Ordinance from the City of Wilmer's web site (http://cityofwilmer.com) show 2:19PM April 7 five hours earlier than the beginning of the P&Z meeting at 7:00PM.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-19T12:45:00.001-05:00

Wilmer Parks & Recreation will sponsor an Easter Egg Hunt in Cottonwood Valley Preserve at 1:00PM April 23 on SATURDAY.
Click Here to View the Flyer

City Fee Schedule

2011-04-14T23:56:00.001-05:00

The City of Wilmer Fee Schedule dated July 2010 is now available online. Note this is a large file and the scanned images may appear upside down in your browser. Click this article title to view.

Click Here to View the Fee Schedule.

Note this is a large file greater than 6MB and may take a long time to load. If you have trouble viewing the image (upside down) please use the "View" and "Rotate" functions of your adobe pdf player located at the top of the browser window. If you have a printer, you can always turn the upside down pages around. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Minority Voter Suppression?

2011-04-13T18:17:00.000-05:00

Well, it's election time in Wilmer and already the (incumbent) City Administration is cracking down on political signs. Fire Chief Marcus Smith attended the TAFYC sponsored Voter Registration Drive to enforce the City's sign codes. Fortunately, the citizens were prepared with an actual copy of the codified ordinances which detail the full scope of the ordinance and it's exceptions (including political signage).

In an effort to register minority voters in time for the May elections, TAFYC sponsored a voter registration drive at River Oaks Mobile Home Park. There were hot dogs and refreshments offered to the public and a certified voter registrar was onsite. Evidently, the City's code enforcement csar, Marcus Smith received a complaint about an illegal sign and in response demanded that the sign be removed. After several concerned citizens intervened, Chief Smith decided to let the sign remain for the additional 90 minutes until the event was over. No citations were written at the time.

Good call on Chief Smith's part, but we must wonder who complained?
Is it possible that Chief Smith was acting on his own?
Who knew that the code enforcement office was open on a Saturday?
Or how to contact the code enforcement officer outside business hours?
Who would have an interest in restricting minority voters from participating in a local election?
Does this incident need to be investigated by the USDOJ as Texas remains on the list of states under scrutiny under the Voting Rights Act of 1965?

The obvious answer is that it's political. Politics as usual in Wilmer Texas. But we will not know for sure until the records of that call are released under the Texas Public Information Act. Or a government entity conducts and inquiry or investigation.

Voter Registration Drive

2011-04-09T16:07:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year for City Elections. "Take Action For Your City" is sponsoring a voter registration drive today through April 13, the last day you can register and vote in the upcoming May 14 election.
Click Here to view the Take Action For Your City Voter Registration Flyer.

City of Wilmer & Chicago Share Hiring Practices

2011-03-17T07:58:00.001-05:00

On March 7, the Chicago Sun Times posted this story about the City's hiring practices The Watchdogs: City Hall hired 139 ex-cons in two years

The March 7 Washington Examiner posts this story about the District's proposed new hiring policies D.C. Council Wants city to hire ex-convicts. Readers may remember D.C. re-elected their convicted mayor after he served his sentence on cocaine charges.

Does it surprise you to know that the City of Wilmer engages in the same hiring practices as the City of Chicago? Criminal records searches reveal a number of Wilmer City employees with felony convictions, currently on active felony probation, fugitives from justice in other states, even a long standing employee was returned to prison on a felony parole violation.

Wilmer seems a bit more "progressive" than Chicago by going the extra mile and bailing out employees on probation who commit felonies on city time.

Perhaps, like Chicago, our City's progressive hiring practices can be remedied in similar fashion.

City Plans Backdoor Tax Hike! MONDAY DEC 27 7:30PM MEETING

2010-12-27T11:07:00.000-06:00

The City Council meets Monday night at 7:30PM to discuss issuing certificates of obligation to BORROW the money WE THE VOTERS DENIED them in the November Bond Election. Wilmer Citizen Activist predicted this in our article (click here) on November 3 - No joke folks the City is going to double or triple your taxes and you don't have anything to say about it UNLESS you will sign the petition to force an election BY THE PEOPLE to authorize or deny these debt payment obligations.

One of the things about these types of notes, once issued, constitute existing debt which must be satisfied prior to considering the city's budget and computing the effective tax rate. In fact, these debt obligations "come off the top" before figuring the maximum property tax rate (called the rollback rate). So for the purpose of taxation, existing debt obligations are included before figuring the "tax rate". What this means is that the City can cause your taxes to double or triple, all the while conforming to state mandated maximum increases on a year-to-year basis.

CLICK HERE to print a copy of the petition to circulate for signatures in your area - become a Block Captain and sign up your fellow citizens who resent unfair taxation and the City Administration's complete disregard for the will of the voters.

Weekend Holiday Festivities: Lite the Tree - Toy Drive

2010-11-30T14:04:00.001-06:00

Lite the New Christmas Tree Saturday, December 4, 5:30PM
Please click "Read More" for information about singing Christmas carols.
Click Here to View the Full Color Flyer!

Toy Drive Sponsored by the Ladies of the Wilmer City Council at 2:00PM on Sunday, December 5, at the Wilmer Community Center with free music concert provided by the Conjunto Outlaws.
Please Bring an Unwrapped Gift for Wilmer's less fortunate Children.

Letter From the Wilmer Parks & Recreation Board

Dear Pastor:

The Wilmer Parks & Recreation Board invites your congregation to the Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
December 4, 2010 at 6:00PM
If your choir, trio or quartet could sing one Christmas Carol at the event, it would be a wonderful chance for someone there to be introduced to your Congregation.

Please Contact Alice Holloway Wilmer City Secretary at 972-441-6373

If it is true that "the family that prays together, stays together"; then a Town that comes together to celebrate this very special Holiday should benefit from our mutual concern for the City"

Sincerely,
The Wilmer Parks & Recreation Board

Keep Thanksgiving Trash Until Monday

2010-11-25T08:27:00.000-06:00

City of Wilmer informs us that there will be no Thanksgiving Day trash pickup.
Please hold your holiday trash until Monday, November 29.

Wildflower Plantings at Cottonwood Creek Preserve

2010-11-13T08:15:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Mary Phinney for this contributed article.

There Will Be a Memorial Wildflower Planting in the Cottonwood Preserve Park on November 20 beginning at 10AM for those who have passed in the last year.

Click Here to View the Full Color Flyer

No End-Run Around the Voters

2010-11-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

The Texas Certificate of Obligation Act allows the voters to petition for an election if they don't want their city to borrow money and the city doesn't want to let the voters decide in a bond election to allow the City to borrow money.

Click Here to Read the Full Story.

Certificates of Obligation are an end-run around the will of the voters so that the City can borrow money and ignore the will of the voters in a bond election.

Fortunately for the citizens of Wilmer, the City's credit rating is a disaster and no reputable banker would even consider a loan. However, it will be the responsibility of the voters to make sure the city conforms to the will of the people. Start or sign a petition to make sure you have a voice and a vote when considering the City's future obligations that will have to be paid by yourselves, your children, and your grandchildren.

Latest Flyer Outlines Bond Costs

2010-11-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Take Action For Your City has published another flyer detailing the costs to the public for the proposed bond issue in the November 2 election. Vote AGAINST Proposition 1.

Click Here to Read the Full Text of the Flyer Against Proposition 1.

The potential liability to the taxpayers appears to be $46 Million over the next 40 years. The City now collects about $2 million per year in property taxes and if this bond issue passes, Wilmer taxpayers can count on at least 50% MORE TAXES over the next 40 years just due to this bond issue.

What I Heard at Thursday's Town Hall Meeting

2010-10-31T09:32:00.000-05:00

Though I've vowed to publish only contributed content I feel compelled to share what I heard at the Town Hall Meeting.

REGARDLESS OF HOW YOU VOTE ON THE BOND ISSUE - the City intends to spend the money and complete the proposed project anyway. The Mayor stated unequivocally that regardless of the will of the voters, the water improvement project will proceed and that the funds must come from water customers.

The Mayor stated that the City of Wilmer was "For Sale".

The Mayor confirmed that he considers City Hall "His House".

The Mayor confirmed that he "wears a crown in this town".

The Mayor repeatedly stated that "he had faith" that TCEQ air quality measures would be enforced, that TX DOT would monitor and certify construction vehicle contamination to safe and appropriate levels and that NO additional measures or ordinances would be enacted by the city to ensure the safety of our children attending the school in such close proximity to the proposed cement batch plant for Whirlpool's construction.

The Mayor would confirm only that existing water/sewer pipes with "asbestos" would be replaced under the proposed water and sewer improvement plans.

The Mayor would not credit his sources for any material he referred to in his rhetoric, even though it was asked several times to show the cover of the report to which he kept referring.

Phinney Editorial on Bond Issue

2010-10-28T13:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks to John Phinney for this Contributed Editorial. WATER. WATER NO WHERE
AND
WHERE WILL THE HUMAN WASTE GO?
NO WHERE!!!

The above could be true; the bond issue to improve the infrastructure of the water and sewer system of Wilmer, Texas is needed. The pipes are quite old. The section west of Highway 45 should have been replaced in the early 1990s and if not then by at least 2000 to 2002 but it was not. The Mayors and City Councils then did not address that situation as they should have. Now we (the citizens of Wilmer) must do it. In the last 18 months I have seen changes for the better in the city and this Bond Issue, up for Vote on November 2, 2010, can do that. It will provide a new water supply line into the city and will replace the pipes in the city that are breaking from age. I can remember my Grandfather Nelson, he maintained the water and sewer system for the City of Lincoln, Nebraska (110, 000 people at the time), stating that a patch of a leak was fine
but within the year or so it would again leak near the patch. You need new
pipes, technology changes and pipe connections change. If this is not passed, then where will the funds come from to continue to fix the leaks as pipes age and break? I would guess from higher water bills. There would be higher bills for all of Wilmer—East or West of Highway 45. Wilmer is on the way back with new business to increase the tax base and they, as well, will want a sound water supply.

If you want Wilmer to grow and gain respect as a city, where you life, then pass this Bond Issue. If you do not, then why do you live here?

John F. S. Phinney

Pioneer Days October 15-17 Dalport

2010-10-05T22:30:00.008-05:00

Pioneer Days October 15-17 on Dalport Parkway.

Click Here to View the Full Color Flyer!

WRESTLING National Night Out

2010-09-28T18:54:00.001-05:00

Thanks to John Eggen for making these flyers post-able.

Full Color National Night Out - En Espanol - Click Here!

Full Color National Night Out (English) - Click Here!

This year's National Night Out is sure to be a fun filled night for the entire family which will center around a Pro Wrestling Event that will include 4 exciting matches. FREE Nachos, Hot Dogs, Popcorn and drinks will be available for all to enjoy.

The event is FREE to the public and everyone is invited and encouraged to come out for a night of community fellowship and an opportunity to meet the members of your Wilmer Police Department.

The Wrestling Rink and festivities will be located at 101 Davidson Plaza which is the lot next to the Police Department in front of the Community Center.

For additional information call 972-441-6565.

Stuffing the Ballot Box?

2010-09-24T18:54:00.002-05:00

Allegedly unrequested mail-in ballots for the November election started appearing in Wilmer mail boxes today.

This story arrived too late in the day to get any comment from Dallas County Election Department Chief Bruce Sherbet. But this isn't the first time there have been irregularities surrounding mail-in ballots in Dallas County.

Click Here to Read the WFAA "Voter Fraud" Article from March

Click Here to View More WFAA "Voter Fraudd" Reporting

Wilmer P.D. Hosts Second Annual National Night Out Oct. 5th

2010-09-24T15:33:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Chief Victor Kemp for this Contributed Article.

The Wilmer Police Department will be hosting it's 2nd Annual National Night Out on Tuesday October 5th, 2010 from 6PM to 9PM.

This year's National Night Out is sure to be a fun filled night for the entire family which will center around a Pro Wrestling Event that will include 4 exciting matches. FREE Nachos, Hot Dogs, Popcorn and drinks will be available for all to enjoy.

The event is FREE to the public and everyone is invited and encouraged to come out for a night of community fellowship and an opportunity to meet the members of your Wilmer Police Department.

The Wrestling Rink and festivities will be located at 101 Davidson Plaza which is the lot next to the Police Department in front of the Community Center.

For additional information call 972-441-6565.

CITY OF WILMER PIONEER DAY'S FESTIVAL

2010-09-22T21:37:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Becky Jones for this contributed article.

The City of Wilmer will be hosting this year's "Pioneer Day's Festival" on October 15th, 16th and 17th. This year's festival has been moved to Dal Port Parkway, a new four lane lighted concrete road that runs between I-45 service road and Millers Ferry.

The City of Wilmer will be hosting this year's "Pioneer Day's Festival" on October 15th, 16th and 17th. This year's festival has been moved to Dal Port Parkway, a new four lane lighted concrete road that runs between I-45 service road and Millers Ferry. Park Board President, John Eggen said "We were just out of space at the old location. We have plenty of room for expansion and we don't have to worry about rain.

This year we have an expanded carnival including adult, teen, and kiddie rides. The midway will also feature food and game booths. Unlimited ride armbands are available for $20.00 per day. (Thursday night preview is $15.00 with advance purchase at the library.) Standard tickets are $1.00 with rides costing from 1 - 4 tickets each. Opening Ceremonies will begin at 6pm on Friday the 15th followed by a concert and dance at 7pm at the main stage. Performing will be "Los Outlaws."

Saturday begins with a parade that starts at the Adams street ballpark and travel down Kissel/College Streets to Beltline Rd and ends up at City Hall. We will include a senior citizen best decorated scooter award along with the cutest dog award. Chili Cook-off registration begins at 9am with the cooking starting at 11am. Baked fruit pie competition turn-in will be at the Community Center at noon. 2pm will begin our Hot Dog Eating Contest with trophies and cash prizes awarded. This is limited to the first 20 people and a standby list of 10. Entertainment begins at the main stage at 3pm with "Double 00 Buck". Country with a kick!
Chili judging begins at 4pm with the winners of both the Chili Cook-Off and Pie Baking announced about 5pm. The evening's entertainment features the "222 Band" and street dancing at the main stage at 7pm.

New this year, our gates will open at noon on Sunday. The afternoon begins with a concert at 2pm. A Tamale Eating Contest with trophies and cash prizes awarded will start at 5pm. This is limited to the first 20 people and a standby list of 10 also. Closing ceremonies are at 6:45pm, followed by a concert at 7pm.

Rules and preregistration forms for any of the events or for vendors are available at the Wilmer Public Library anytime during normal business hours. Preregistration is recommended as there are limited entries in some events. Come out and help make this our best Pioneer Days yet.

It Could Happen

2010-09-21T20:38:00.000-05:00

Los Angeles, California (CNN) -- Eight current and former Bell, California, city officials arrested and charged Tuesday with misappropriation of funds and making or receiving illegal loans demonstrated "corruption on steroids," the Los Angeles County district attorney said.

Click Here to Read the Full Story at CNN.COM

More Issues for Dallas County

2010-09-19T08:28:00.001-05:00

3 dozen Dallas County deputy constables hired despite troubling job histories | The Dallas Morning News

Click Here to View the DMN Article in full.

If you have trouble using the link provided, paste this link into your browser window:

"http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/yahoolatestnews/stories/091910dnmetconstablesdayone.2935c95.html"

Citizen Reaction to 16 Sept City Council Meeting

2010-09-17T16:26:00.005-05:00

Thanks to Mary Phinney for this Contributed Article.

Please Click on the "Read More!" link below or the Headline for this Article to view the full text of Mary's message.

And don't forget to use the "Comments" button!

Auditor's Management Letter CORRECTED FY08

2010-09-14T15:00:00.062-05:00

[ED NOTE CORRECTION & APOLOGY: The letter was originally posted as applying to Fiscal Year 2009 in error - correction this is the Fiscal Year Ended September 2008. Apologies to the current administration for the mis-posting of the date information.]

City of Wilmer FY08 Auditor's Management Letter is now available online. The five page "confidential" report list two "material" and 24 "serious" weaknesses in our city's financial management practices.

Click Here to View the Wilmer 2008 Audit Report Management Letter.

City Auditors listed the "Preparation of Financial Reports" and "State Court Costs & Reporting" as two material weaknesses, explanation follows:

A deficiency In internal control exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct misstatements on a timely basis.

A material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies in internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the entity's financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis.

Wilmer Citizen Activist - New Look and Feel

2010-09-12T11:58:00.000-05:00

Wilmer Public Citizen served the public interests well as an information resource and editorial voice, but it's purpose has been served and its' time to close the curtain on WPC.

Community News doesn't really describe the kind of content the community at large has published recently. Community Views reflect the community-based content of our readership.

Consider Wilmer Citizen Activist the place to publish your views and a resource to utilize in the ongoing process of self-governance and oversight. Use this forum as a tool to communicate - organize your community/block/neighborhood. Learn about what you can do to manage your public servants and exercise your lawful authority for self governance.

Criticize, ask questions, sign a petition, be a witness, call a lawyer, call your neighbor, assemble and make decisions, deliver pamphlets - work together to make a difference. Remember we've all been told "YOU are the government" - Let's Start Acting Like IT!

Thought for THIS 9/11

2010-09-11T09:57:00.000-05:00

The attached is from a 26 year old who's father is a veteran. On this special anniversary I invite you to read it... and weep. I know I did.

For the original posting (with comments) click here

or click Read More for the full text below.

My dad spent 26 years in the Armed Services as part of Strategic Air Command. He's become a bit of a poet in his golden years. Today he sent me this:
_

In Arlington we lay to rest
our bravest and our very best.
We send our children off to war
defending what we soon ignore.
_

“You’re free to worship,” so we say.
“But if you’re muslim, go away.”
Is this what they were dying for:
Intolerance, and nothing more?
_

Must one be christian to obtain
the liberties that we proclaim?
These soldiers died for liberty.
They didn’t die for bigotry.

_
So look upon this hallowed field,
not only crosses are revealed.
For you’ll see stars and crescents too.
They also sacrificed for you.
_

In Arlington we lay to rest
our bravest and our very best.
They knew what they were dying for.
It’s something that we can’t ignore.

Joe G

EDIT: I've always been proud of my old man.

EDIT #2: Wow, I wake up this morning to see this on the front page! I'm humbled, as I'm sure my father is.

Nothing would honor my father and the service his veteran brothers and sisters more than to share this poem with whomever you wish. All I ask is that you at least provide the same level of attribution that I did.

Citizen Rebuttal to TAFYC Pamphlet

2010-09-08T15:31:00.009-05:00

Thanks to Mary Phinney for this Contributed Content.

[ED: Attache is Mary's letter in it's complete form and true format. Thanks again to Mary Phinney for resending her letter.]

Please click the "Read More!" Link Below or the Headline to view the entire Article.

And don't forget to submit your comments!

Second Newsletter from "Wilmer's Only News Media For Local News"

2010-09-06T16:17:00.001-05:00

Citizen's Group "Take Action For Your City" has published a second newsletter as "Wilmer's Only News Media For Local News".

Click Here to read the entire publication in English.

More Community generated content for our publication.
Keep up the interest folks - and don't forget the comments button!.

Open Letter in Three Languages

2010-09-06T15:21:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Mary Phinney for this contributed content.

Three translations in English, Spanish & German are included below - just click the "Read More" link for the full story.

I have been told that only the Hispanic residents received invitations to the last City Council Meeting. Written or vocal if only the Hispanic Residents were targeted then the person responsible is "playing" for some hidden agenda. The invitation should have been offered to every citizen of the City of Wilmer.
Once again, when I asked who I was met with denials and blank stares.
Here is a fact: Hector Pena records every session of the City Council. He knew that the Water Bill issue was not on the Agenda and he KNEW if the City Council addressed it in any fashion they would be breaking the Open Meetings Codes/Law. He set the Mayor and the Council up for being publicly embarrassed by not answering, he is counting on the ignorance of the audience or worse trying to force the Mayor and City Council into breaking the law.
Most of us have immigrant parents or grandparents. They came here to escape this kind of Cultural, Religious, and political bigotry.
Don’t let it get a foothold here.

===== SPANISH ======
Me han dicho que sólo los residentes hispanos recibieron invitaciones a la última reunión del Consejo de la ciudad. Escrito o vocal si sólo los residentes hispanos fueron específicamente que la persona responsable es "jugar" para algunos agenda oculta. La invitación debería haber ofrecido a todos los ciudadanos de la Ciudad de Wilmer.
Una vez más, cuando le pregunté quién era yo se reunió con rechazos y miradas vacías.
Aquí hay un hecho: Héctor Peña registra cada período de sesiones del Concejo Municipal. Sabía que la cuestión del agua Bill no estaba en el orden del día y sabía que si el Ayuntamiento se dirigió en cualquier forma, su actuación infringía el Código de Reuniones Abiertas / Derecho. Dejó el Alcalde y el Consejo para ser públicamente avergonzado por no responder, él está contando con la ignorancia de la audiencia o, peor aún tratando de forzar el Alcalde y el Concejo Municipal, a terminar con la ley.
La mayoría de nosotros tienen padres o abuelos inmigrantes. Ellos vinieron aquí para escapar de este tipo de cultural, religiosa, y el fanatismo político.
No permitan que se quede aquí un punto de apoyo.

===== GERMAN =====
Mir wurde gesagt, dass nur die hispanischen Bewohner Einladungen zur letzten Stadtratssitzung. Schriftliche oder vokal, wenn nur der hispanischen Einwohner wurden gezielte, dann ist die Person verantwortlich ist "Spielen" für einige "hidden agenda". Die Einladung sollte auf jeden Bürger der Stadt Wilmer angeboten wurde.

Wieder einmal, als ich fragte wer? " Ich war mit Dementis und leere Blicke trafen.

Hier ist eine Tatsache: Hector Pena Aufzeichnungen jeder Sitzung des Stadtrates. Er wusste, dass das Wasser Bill Problem nicht auf der Tagesordnung stand, und er wußte, wenn der Stadtrat es in irgendeiner Weise angesprochen werden, sie zu brechen würde die Open Meetings Codes / Law. Er stellte dem Bürgermeister und dem Rat bis zum Wesen von öffentlich nicht beantworten verlegen, ist er auf die Ignoranz des Publikums oder schlechter Versuch, die Bürgermeister und Stadtrat in Kraft, das Gesetz zu brechen Zählen. Beide Ziele sind verachtenswert!

Die meisten von uns haben eingewanderten Eltern oder Großeltern. Sie kam hierher, um diese Art der kulturellen, religiösen, rassischen und politischen Fanatismus und Manipulation zu entgehen.

Lassen Sie es nicht mehr Fuß fassen hier!

Water Bill Meeting Tuesday 7PM (Sept 7)

2010-09-04T22:31:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Mary Phinney for this contributed article.

Click Here to read en Espanol and English.

Tax Payer Revolt!

2010-09-02T12:59:00.001-05:00

A group calling itself "Take Action For Your City" has published a newsletter "Wilmer's Only News Media For Local News".
Click Here to read the entire publication in English (Printed pubication also in Spanish).

This is community generated content folks!
Having read the publication, I can't really make a comment.

Don't forget we have a COMMENTS button!

The Chinese Connection

2010-08-30T17:41:00.001-05:00

Thanks to a reader who pointed out these articles of interest regarding The Allen Group.

Two interesting quotes from the January 2010 article in the Dallas Morning News (click here):

"The bankruptcy filing also said Allen had held talks with Dallas city leaders and a Chinese company about the Asian firm's potential purchase of more than 1,000 acres in the logistics park. Court documents identify the company as China Supply and Logistics."

"At a recent Dallas Morning News roundtable, Mayor Tom Leppert alluded to a possible deal involving Chinese investors that he did not identify. "An investor from China may soon make a direct investment in real estate here," he said."

A later story published in May 2010 in the Dallas Business Journal (click here) indicated that:

"In addition to about 750,000 square feet in potential lease deals, The Allen Group is working on five land sales that range from 2 acres to 200 acres, Allen said. The buyers’ uses for the property include retail, a truck stop, distribution and an importer, he said."
[ED NOTE: Anybody notice the new QT going in at I45 @ Wintergreen]

TCPA Student Reception September 2

2010-08-21T06:25:00.000-05:00

Turning Point Christian Academy will be hosting a New Student Reception for all faculty, staff and students on Thursday, Spetember 2 from 5:00PM until 6:30PM.

Wilmer Parks BBQ Cookoff Saturday June 26

2010-06-17T19:13:00.000-05:00

Saturday, June 26th, The Wilmer Parks Board will host a “Chicken
& Rib Cook-Off in the parking area behind City Hall. Prizes for best BBQ will be awarded.
Click Here to View the Full Color Announcement!

Thanks to John Eggen for this contribution.

On Saturday, June 26th, The Parks Board will host our first “Chicken & Rib Cook-Off. The event will take place behind City Hall. Up to 20 teams will compete for bragging rights, trophies and a new grill as the “grand prize”. To compete for the grand prize, contestants must enter both categories, with total combined points determining the winner.

First, second and third place trophies will be awarded in each category.

The cook-off is open to the public beginning at 10:00am. Festivities include two bands; Conjunto Outlaws beginning at 11:30—1:30 and Double Ott Buck playing from 3:00—6:00pm. Activities for the kids include a 24 ft inflatable slide. Your favorite police officer, Chief of Police and Mayor, to name a few, will be sitting in the dunk tank giving you a rare opportunity to take your shot! Come on down and sample all of the barbecue and root for your favorite cooking team. Awards will be presented about 5:00p.m. If you would like to enter a team, (1 cook, and up to 4 team members) applications are available from City Hall, the Library, and both Clayton Crossing and River Oaks Mobile Home Parks Office. If you would like to volunteer to help with the cook-off, please call City Hall at 972.441.6177

Wilmer Hosts Second Summer Chautauqua

2010-06-17T19:02:00.000-05:00

The City of Wilmer will be hosting the second annual Chautauqua event at the Wilmer Community Center Tuesday nights in July from 7:00p.m. until 8:00p.m.

Thanks to John Eggen for this contribution.

THE GOAL OF THE CHAUTAUQUA IS TO INFORM, ENLIGHTEN AND EDUCATE!

During the Month of July, the Wilmer Public Library Advisory Board will sponsor this years Summer Chautauqua Series.

Before Radio, Television and the Internet, this is what your grandparents and great-grandparents did. The Chautauqua was an annual SUMMER EVENT. An Educational and Recreational Event for everyone.

These events were usually weekly programs and lasted four to six weeks. They were held during the mid-summer season…after the crops were planted and before the harvest. In the spirit of the 1880’s through the 1950’s, the City of Wilmer presents, for your enjoyment our second Chautauqua Series.

This year’s Chautauqua will involve four presentations on aspects of religion and world views.

The Chautauqua will be held in the Wilmer Community Center on the four Tuesday nights in July from 7:00p.m. Until 8:00p.m. All presentations are free and open to the public.

TOPICS:

July 6, 2010: Traditional Shamanism. Many see this as the oldest religion and it has been practiced by most of the societies that have ever existed in the world. It still exists today and is often found in association with modern world religions among many societies today. Come and find out the many jobs of the shaman.

Presentation by John F. S. Phinney, Anthropology Faculty, Southern Methodist University.

July 13, 2010: New Age (Modern) Shamanism. It is among the fastest growing religions in North America and Europe. It involves aspects of tradition shamanism, respect and preservation of the environment, and ideas borrowed from many world religions.

Presentation by Mary L. B. Phinney, Anthropologist and Dallas County Trail and Preserve Program Administer, Commissioners Court. She has had the Michael Harner classes in Modern Shamanism.

July 20, 2010: The Role of the Church in Small Communities. This lecture will present information showing the value of the church in communities and the role it plays in the lives of the church members of varied ages.

Presentation by Dr. Julie Adkins, Reverend Adkins has been most recently a minister in Oak Cliff and holds a doctorate in theology and is near completion of her Ph.D. degree in Anthropology at SMU.

July 27, 2010: Wicca (Modern Witchcraft). This is not your mother’s witchcraft. Wicca is the fastest growing religion in North America. It is a religion that involves a reverence/respect for nature and the environment. Come and learn and perhaps with the new information you will better understand why non-traditional religions are growing and traditional church attendance is in decline.

Presentation by Dr. Susan Harper-Bisso, she is a practicing Wicca (Witch) and holds a Ph.D. degree in Anthropology from SMU with a dissertation on Witchcraft.

Wilmer Bike Rodeo

2010-06-03T07:59:00.000-05:00

This Article Contributed by John Eggen

On Saturday, May 22nd, the City of Wilmer successfully held its first Bike Safety Rodeo.

On Saturday, May 22nd, the City of Wilmer successfully held its first Bike Safety Rodeo. A bike rodeo is a bicycle skills event that provides an opportunity for kids to practice and develop skills to become better bicyclists and avoid typical crashes. Our goals were to actively engage kids in learning, practicing, and demonstrating their bicycle handling skills in a fun, noncompetitive atmosphere. Parks Board Chairman, John Eggen said “Timing is everything for the rodeo”. “With the kids getting out of school soon, there will be more bicycles on the streets. It is important they learn the “rules of the road” and practice good safety habits to prevent as many accidents as possible this summer.”

With volunteer assistance from Viola Pruitt, Sherry Lewis, Torrance Strong and Gail Spann (all members of Bike DFW and the League of American Bicyclists), seats were adjusted, brakes repaired, kickstands and handlebars tightened and helmets fitted. With a total of 49 participants in the rodeo, each was provided a bicycle safety helmet, courtesy of Commercial State Bank, our local sponsor, and the Wilmer Parks Board. Following the rodeo, the kids took a bike ride through Wilmer, with Councilman Bell leading the way to the Adams Street Ballpark where Councilman Leal took charge of the grill for the wiener roast. During the awards ceremony, Mayor Steele handed out award ribbons and Certificates of Participation to all of the rodeo riders. Other participants of the rodeo included Lexie McGrane, from the Texas Agrilife Extension Service with displays on good nutrition and developing proper eating habits and The Wilmer Academy was also present doing pre-enrollment for the next school year.

An extra special thank you goes to our local citizen volunteers. Your participation makes events like the rodeo a real community effort.

And Now For Something Completely Different

2010-05-21T20:36:00.003-05:00

Big Changes for the Wilmer Citizen. Is there a benefit to continuing? Are we providing a public service?

It's been a while since we last posted a story and this isn't really much of a news item at all. Some months ago I accepted an appointment to the Wilmer Economic Development Corporation. This is the body charged with spending the extra sales taxes we voted in a few years back. Thus I've been conflicted about the duties of public service and the obvious journalistic challenges that might occur as a result of receiving non-public information in the course of performing those duties. So I withdrew from publication for a while and as the laws of physics dictiate, I must now overcome inertia if I am to resume my former activities.

Fortunately, I don't see the same needs in the community that drove the inception of this august publication. While we may be an ornery bunch - and nobody wants any more taxes - it appears to most citizens that our daily interface with the city is less stressful and more consistent than a few years back when the Wilmer Citizen was conceived. Now you can visit the city web site, get all the information on meetings and hearings, budgets, press releases - although it does lack a certain editorial style and wit - the information is now openly available.

There is one area where we might be able to provide a service IF there is any community support (I'm not talking about money here folks).

Community Notices and "Member Generated Content" Here are a couple of examples I've neglected until it's too late (almost).

Click Here to View the Bike Rodeo Announcement for Saturday May 22, 2010 at 9:00AM at the Community Center.

Click Here to View the Red Cross Blood Drive Announcement for Monday May 24, 2010 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM in the Wilmer Community Center.

So here is my proposition to readers and supporters - send me stuff to publish and I'll get it out there - make it easy use email attachments and send it to reporter@wilmercitizen.info. If you've found an online article you want to let others know about please send the link with a brief description of the content so I only have to write a headline. Even better - send your article or link WITH a headline and synopsis (for articles) and a byline if you want one.

If you've really got some breaking news CALL ME at 213-244-7689 and we'll work on an article. That's about all I can do folks - other than redesign the interface so it's less "news oriented" and that can wait until there's something to publish from you, our faithful reading public.

Joe Aldrich

City Meeting Agendas Tuesday & Thursday Nights

2010-01-19T14:14:00.001-06:00

The Parks Board of the City of Wilmer will meet this evening at 7:00PM at the Wilomer Community Center. Please Click Here to View the Parks Board Agenda in a New Window.
The Wilmer City Council will meet Thursday January 21 at 7:30PM in the WIlmer COmmunity Center. Please Click Here to View the City Council Agenda In a New Window.
leas

The Wilmer Parks Board will consider 2010 programs such as the Frisbee Golf Park, Pioneer Day and Lite the Tree Celebrations, Summer Children's Programs and a BBQ Cookoff.

The Wilmer City Council will consider a variety of items from acquisition of pressure valves, disposition of the council seat vacated by Tiny Lange and tax abatements for Whirlpool Corporation.

Council Meets Thursday December 17

2009-12-16T12:44:00.003-06:00

Wilmer City Council will meet at the Wilmer Community Center at 7:30PM on Thursday December 17, 2009 to consider a full slate of agenda items including: annexation, public hearings and capital improvements.

Click Here to View the Agenda in A New Window.

Cancer Benefit in Ennis Saturday

2009-12-09T10:58:00.005-06:00

There will be a benefit for 7-year old leukemia patient Mariah Ross at the SPJST Hall in Ennis on Saturday, December 12 from 3PM to Midnight with DJ's, live bands and food.

Cover is $8 and includes DJs Mighty Mike, Tejano Joe, Danny Olivarez and "surprise!?". Live Bands include Revelation, Secreto, Sierra Musical, Larry D. and Conjunto Outlaw.
Food is available at $5 per plate. Proceeds to benefit 7 year old Mariah Ross who is undergoing treatments at Mesquite Hospital for leukemia.

The SPJST Hall is East on Highway 34 from I-45 in Ennis towards Combine/Kaufman.
Please come out and help this little girl and her family during this Holiday Season.
And don't forget to help Wilmer Celebrate and Light the Tree!

Wilmer City Christmas Tree

2009-12-02T10:32:00.005-06:00

Jeff Dyess, Council Woman Marlena Dyess, Parks Board Chairman John Eggen and Councilman Stan Bell (not shown, took picture) picked up the City Christmas Tree on Saturday. The Ivanhoe Christmas Tree Farm donated a 14 Foot Louisiana Pine to the City. This year's "Lite the Tree" Celebration is on Saturday, December 12 beginning at 5:30pm. Join the Celebration!

Click Her to View the Printable Full Color Flyer in a New Window.

City Council Meets December 3

2009-11-30T21:25:00.003-06:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet Thursday December 3 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center. The main agenda item will be consideration of joining the Best Southwest Partnership.

Please Click Here to View the Entire Agenda in a New Window.

Planning & Zoning Board to Meet 11/24

2009-11-19T18:58:00.003-06:00

The Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Wilmer will meet on Tuesday, November 24 at 6:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center. Public Hearing on amending the Zoning Ordinance regarding annexation of land designated "SF1".

Click Here to View the Agenda in a New Window.

Wilmer PD Sponsors Toy Drive

2009-11-18T20:59:00.004-06:00

For some children the Christmas tree looks pretty lonely on that magical Christmas morning, but the community of Wilmer has a chance to change that.

The Wilmer Police Department is leading a Toy Drive and volunteers are more desperate for donations this year because so many struggle in these tough economic times. But the department knows the generosity of those who are able to make a difference and are calling on all to do a little or a lot by donating an unwrapped toy. While we prefer toys and food to be donated cash gifts will be welcomed as well. Boys and girls bikes are always great gifts to make children smile on Christmas morning.

Those who can help are encouraged to do so as soon as possible by dropping donations off at the Wilmer Police Department, City Hall or the Library. The deadline for donations will be 5pm on Monday December 22nd. Anyone who wishes to volunteer their time to wrap toys and put baskets together are encouraged to call Chief Kemp at (972)441-6565 or by email at wilmerpolice@cityofwilmer.com to get more information as this will be a great help.

For families who are in need of help this holiday season please sign up at the Police Department or City Hall as soon as possible.

For more information call (972)441-6373 or (972)441-6565.

(Ed. Note: Article Contributed By Wilmer Police Department.)

City Council Meeting 11/19 7:30PM

2009-11-16T19:08:00.002-06:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet Thursday November 19 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center to discuss special use permits, library hours, expense funding and tax abatement proposals.

Click Here to View the Agenda in a New Window.

Special Council Meerting Thursday 7:30PM

2009-11-10T10:16:00.003-06:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet in a Special Called Session on Thursday, November 12 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center. The single agenda item is an Executive (closed) Session meeting to discuss the Thom Lauer lawsuit, with action as appropriate in public session. No other business is listed on the agenda.

Click Here to View the Entire Agenda in a New Window.

First Responder to Receive Award

2009-11-05T13:00:00.000-06:00

At tonight's City Council Meeting, Mr. Jim Schwartz, President of CareFlite will present Mr. John Mueller with a First Responder award.

Mr. Mueller was nominated by his peers on the Wilmer Fire Department to recognize his unselfish contributions to the safety and welfare of the citizens of Wilmer.He is a part time firefighter/EMT that contributes both in a paid and volunteer capacity when needed. Mr. Mueller is a full time medical school student and still contributes his spare time to assist the Wilmer Fire Department when requested.

City Council Meets Thursday 11/5

2009-11-03T10:05:00.004-06:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet Thursday night, November 5, at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center. The ambitious agenda includes a public hearing on special use permits for a rodeo, several interlocal agreements and existing contract changes, infrastructure repairs, and Parks Board items.

Click Here to Read the Full Agenda in a New Window.

Town Hall Meeting Thursday 7PM

2009-10-26T13:03:00.002-05:00

Mayor Jeff Steele will host a Town Hall Meeting at 7PM on Thursday October 29 at the Wilmer Community Center.

Click Here to View the Agenda in a New Window.

Halloween Night

2009-10-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

Halloween night (October 31) from 7pm - 9pm dispatchers from the Wilmer Police Department are going to be passing out candy in the front lobby area of the Wilmer PD - Halloween bags that will contain candy, a Frisbee, some safety informational items and a few other small gift items for kids and adults alike.

Wilmer Public Citizen is pleased to present this message from the Wilmer Police Department about Halloween Night as a public service.

Parks Board Meets Tuesday October 27

2009-10-23T16:19:00.002-05:00

The City of Wilmer Parks Board will meet Tuesday, October 27 at 7:00PM at the Wilmer Community Center.

The Parks Board will consider topics concerning the frisbee golf course, lite-the-tree event for Christmas, interlocal agreement with Lancaster for summer pool use, other winter programs and filling a vacancy on the board.

Click Here to Vies the Full Agenda in a New Window.

P&Z Commission Meets October 26

2009-10-21T17:08:00.002-05:00

The Wilmer Planning and Zoning Commission will meet MONDAY, October 26 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center to consider the conditional use permit for the Wilmer Academy on South Dallas Avenue.

Click Here to View the Full Agenda in a New Window.

City of Wilmer Employment Opportunities

2009-10-20T16:28:00.002-05:00

The City of Wilmer is hiring full time positions for the Fire Department and the Water Department. If interested, please view the position announcements below.

The City of Wilmer is seeking a Firefighter/Paramedic (2 positions)

Seeking Certified TCFP Firefighter with TDSHS Paramedic Certification. Applicants must be 21 years or older with a high school diploma or GED. Applicant must possess a Class “B” drivers license. Selected candidates must pass pre-employment tests.

For applications and job description, please visit Wilmer City Hall, 128 North Dallas Ave, Wilmer, TX 75172.

The City of Wilmer is an equal opportunity employer and all positions will remain open until filled.

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The City of Wilmer is seeking a Water & Sewer Maintenance Worker.

Applicant must possess a valid Class “C” Drivers license, High School Diploma or G.E.D. Class “D” or “C” Water license preferred, but not necessary. Selected candidate must pass pre-employment tests.

For applications and job description, please visit Wilmer City Hall, 128 North Dallas Ave, Wilmer, TX 75172.

The City of Wilmer is an equal opportunity employer and all positions will remain open until filled.

Little Street Reconstruction Project

2009-10-20T14:36:00.003-05:00

The Little Street reconstruction project began Monday, October 19 with the City of Wilmer Water Department's replacement of water lines.

Dallas County is scheduled to begin road reconstruction on November 2, 2009. Hopefully all of the water main improvements will be completed before the actual road reconstruction begins. Little Street is closed at the intersection with Dallas Avenue. Residents are asked to enter Little Street from Belt Line Road or First Street at the present time.

P&Z Commission To Meet October 20

2009-10-16T19:56:00.004-05:00

The Wilmer Planning & Zoning Commission will meet Tuesday, October 20 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center to consider conditional use permits for 211 South Dallas Avenue and 801 Mars Road.

Click Here to View the Full Agenda in a New Window.

National Night Out a Success!

2009-10-09T13:53:00.007-05:00

The Wilmer community center was ablaze with flashing light and smiling faces as the Wilmer Police Department hosted its first “National Night Out”.

Wilmer citizens gathered in support of our Police Department to meet our Officers and learn first hand about crime control and prevention. With plenty of hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and sodas it was obvious that everyone was having a great time. As parents signed up for neighborhood watch programs, the kids were provided goodie bags containing plenty of activity and coloring books on bike safety, crime prevention and drug free environments.

When asked about the turnout, Chief Kemp said, “"It appears approximately 150 people were our guest throughout the evening despite the bad weather. Young and old alike enjoyed the food, gifts, information and activities. The most important thing I witnessed was the spirit of family and community as folks visited with one another. I could not be more encouraged by the support our community and citizens showed the members of the Wilmer Police Department. And through hard work and diligence by law enforcement and the good citizens of Wilmer, we will gain more support which in turn will make our jobs more effective and Wilmer a safer place to live and work. I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to each guest and volunteer who made this first annual National Night Out a huge success."

Chief Kemp Gets an Ear Full from Ms. Isabelle

Mayor's Town Hall Meeting Thursday

2009-09-23T15:45:00.002-05:00

Mayor Jeff Steele will host a Town Hall Meeting at 7:00PM, Thursday September 24, at the Wilmer Community Center.

Click Here to View the Agenda in a New Window.

Parks Board & City Council Meet Tuesday

2009-09-19T13:35:00.003-05:00

The Wilmer Parks Board will meet at 6:30PM and the Wilmer City Council will meet at 7:30PM on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 at the Wilmer Community Center. The Parks Board will consider a number initiatives. The City Council will hold another public hearing on the proposed budget and vote on the proposed new tax rate and revenue increase.

Click Here to View Both Agendas in a New Window

City Council to Consider Nusiance Housing

2009-09-15T20:31:00.003-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet in regular session on Thursday, September 17 at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center. Five pieces of real property are being considered as nuisance properties in public hearings during the session.

Click Here to View the Full Agenda in a New Window.

Hope Community Garden Auto Show Benefit

2009-09-10T11:02:00.004-05:00

The First Annual Dale Graham Car Show benefiting the Wilmer Hope Community Garden is on for Saturday, Septemnber 12, 2009 from 10AM to 4PM sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Eagles 3108 of Dallas at their location 8500 Arturo. The $10 admission covers free BBQ and keg beer (while it lasts) and a live band from 1PM to 3PM.

If you are interested in entering your car in tghe show, the entry is $20. Call Pamela McQueen at 214-586-4658. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Several rafles are also planned for the event. Come out and help us make the Hope Garden a reality!

Click Here to View the Ellis County Press Article about the Benefit in a New Window.

Sunridge Business Park Gets New Tenant

2009-09-10T09:56:00.001-05:00

Sunridge Business Park is getting a new tenant for about half of the 520,00 square foot cross dock facility at 101 Sunridge Drive. Build-out construction is currently underway. Although the new tenant isn't identified in the attached press release, the Dallas Business Journal announced last month that Arch Chemicals Inc. (NYSE:ARJ) would be consolidating two distribution centers in Wilmer. Congratulations!

Wilmer, TX - September 8, 2009 - (RealEstateRama) — US Industrial REIT II, an affiliate of USAA Real Estate Company, recently leased 286,000 square feet within its I-45 Tradeport 1 distribution facility, located at 101 Sunridge Blvd. in Southeastern Dallas County, to an undisclosed tenant. Gary Collett, Dan Cook, Mark Becker and Ashley Pope of global real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield, are providing brokerage services for the remaining 234,000 square feet – divisible to 94,500 square feet – of industrial space.
“This prime real estate offers a unique opportunity with its location adjacent to the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area and two international intermodal transportation hubs,” Collett says. “The facility stands in the heart of what is considered the next frontier of industrial development.”
The 520,000-square foot cross dock warehouse is competitively situated just off the access road to Interstate 45 near the UP Dallas Intermodal Terminal and is also part of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport’s North Foreign Trade Zone 39. Other amenities of the Tradeport 1 property include 47 dock doors, ESFR sprinkler system, 44 trailer positions with expansion room, 140 foot truck courts and the ability to add perimeter security fencing for CT-PAT compliance.
The US Industrial REIT II portfolio, totaling $1 billion, consists of large scale bulk industrial properties across the continental United States. USAA Real Estate Company, with approximately $5 billion assets under management, provides co-investment, acquisition, build-to-suit and development services for corporate and institutional investors. USAA Real Estate is a subsidiary of USAA, a leading financial services company, serving military families since 1922. For more information, visit www.usrealco.com.

City of Wilmer Notices

2009-09-09T10:54:00.006-05:00

While publication was suspended due to staff vacation, the City of Wilmer issued a number of notices for tax rates, meetings, public hearings and workshops over the next few weeks.
Click Here to View All of the Announcements in a New Window

2009-2010 BUDGET WORKSHOP Wednesday September 9 6:00PM Wilmer Community Center

P&Z COMMISSION MEETING Thursday September 10 6:30PM Wilmer Community Center

SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING Thursday September 10 7:30PM Wilmer Community Center

2009-10 TAX RATE PUBLIC HEARING & ADOPOTION Thursday September 22 7:30PM Wilmer Community Center

Several other tax related notices and disclosures are also included.

Wilmer Academy Classes Begin August 24

2009-08-20T12:02:00.003-05:00

SCHOOL OPENS AUGUST 24
Wilmer Academy (211 S. Dallas Avenue) opens the doors for fall classes on Monday, August 24. Read More for the Drop off and Pick Up times, dress code requirements, and school supplies lists.

Wilmer Academy
Location 211. S. Dallas Avenue Wilmer, TX 75172

STUDENT SCHEDULES

DROP OFF 8:00am

8:00 - 8:30 Breakfast (for those who qualify)

8:30 - 3:30 School Hours

PICK UP
Students and Teachers lined up outside for parental pick-up

3:00 Kindergarten through 2nd grade
3:10 3rd and 4th grade
3:20 5th and 6th grade
3:30 7th and 8th grade

Click Here to View the Wilmer Academy Dress Code in a New Window.

Uniforms:

Kindergarten through 4th grade

TOPS
Polo Collar
Red or Navy Blue

BOTTOMS
Pants, Shorts, Skirts or dresses

5th Through 8th Grade

TOPS
Polo Collar
White or Black

BOTTOMS
pants, skirts or dresses
Khaki or black
If pants have belt loop, must wear belt black or brown

SHOES FOR ALL
Closed Toe - no sandals

Click Here to View the School Supplies Lists in a New Window.

City Council Meets Thursday 7:30PM

2009-08-19T14:27:00.004-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will hold a regular meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2009 at 7:30PM at the Wilmer Community Center. A public hearing on amending the zoning ordinance is planned for discussion, as well as a developer agreement (postponed from last meeting), a school zone ordinance update, and a new hire for the Wilmer Water Works.

Click Here to View the Meeting Announcement in a New Window.

Council Called Meeting Thursday August 13

2009-08-11T11:21:00.001-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will hold a special called meeting on Thursday, August 132, 2009 at 7:30PM at the Wilmer Community Center. The sole agenda topic is the tax rate for 2009 property taxes.

Click Here to View the Meeting Announcement in a New Window.

August 6 City Council Highlights

2009-08-07T09:39:00.001-05:00

The City Council meeting of August 6 was conducted efficiently and quickly with all agenda items prior to the Executive Session passing unanimously. Council member Tiny Lange was not present for the meeting and readers keeping score may note this is the fourth consecutive meeting that Lange has missed.

Consent items were passed quickly and without discussion. La Tonya Wright was appointed to the Parks board to replace a resigning member. The Parks Board was authorized to pursue grant funding for the Frisbee golf course in Cottonwood Valley Preserve. Consideration of a developer agreement with the City and FR-CAL Wilmer LLC was postponed until the August 20 meeting at the request of the developer. Mayor Steele was authorized to draft a letter to Commissioner John Wiley Price requesting reallocation of certain county project funds to create a parking facility at Cottonwood Valley Preserve.

Within twelve minutes of starting the session, the council recessed into Executive Session for the next 48 minutes.

Upon reconvening the open session meeting at 8:30PM, Victor Kemp was confirmed as the new Chief of Police (Congratulations Chief Kemp). No action was taken on any settlement agreement with former police dispatcher Teri Cohen.

The City Attorney was authorized to prepare a new school zone ordinance prior to the opening of the new Wilmer Academy by the next (Aug. 20) council meeting.

The final item, purchase of body armor cooling for the police department was approved along with tinting of the patrol vehicle windows (at Chief Kemp's request) to be implemented prior to March 2010.

Meeting adjourned fifteen minutes after reconvening at 8:45PM.

For our sports fan readers, here's a breakdown of the motions, seconds and votes by agenda topic:

Consent Items (A & B) moved by Vandygriff, second by Leal, unanimous approval.
Park Board appointment (C) moved by Dyess, second by Vandygriff, unanimous approval.
Frisbee Golf Grant (D), moved by Vandygriff, second by Dyess, unanimous approval.
Table Developer Agreement until August 20 (E), moved by Dyess, second by Leal, unanimous approval.
Letter to County on fund reallocation (F), moved by Vandygriff, second by Leal, unanimous approval.
Ratify Chief Kemp appointment (H), moved by Dyess, second by Leal, unanimous approval.
Draft School zone ordinance (I), moved by Leal, second by Dyess, unanimous approval.
Police armor cooling & tint for patrol cars (J), moved by Vandygriff, second by Leal, unanimous approval.

August Chautauqua Series

2009-08-06T11:34:00.003-05:00

The Chautauqua series continues on August 11 and 18 at 7:00PM at the Wilmer Community Center. Ms. Mary Phinney will present information about migration and immigration to Texas from 1820-1872 "Where Did All These Foreigners Come From?" on August 11. The August 18 session will cover "European, African & Asian Influences from 1872 Through the 21st Century.

Come join us for this interesting and educational event.

Click Here to View The Full Color Announcement Poster in a New Window.

Live Music in Wilmer Friday Aug. 7

2009-08-04T18:00:00.001-05:00

Gran's Homecooking at 426 Little Street (972-441-6041) will host a live music event featuring Billy & the Boys with Shelby Milligan beginning at 6:00PM on Friday, August 7.

Come and enjoy some fine Country Music and Texas Swing.
Be sure to order the All-You-Can-Eat Catfish dinner special for only $8.95!

City Council Meeting Thursday August 6

2009-08-04T05:44:00.000-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet at 7:30PM in the Wilmer Community Center on Thursday, August 6, 2009.

Click Here to View the Full Agenda in a New Window.

Chief of Police Victor Kemp

2009-08-03T17:38:00.002-05:00

In a press release issued today by Mayor Jeff Steele, Sr. Sergeant Victor Kemp has been promoted to Chief of Police, having filled the position since the termination of former Chief Robert Wells. The appointment of a new Chief requires ratification by the City Council (see agenda items for the August 6, 2009 meeting).

Click Here to Read the Full Press Release in a New Window.

Special Council Meeting Thursday 6:30PM

2009-07-28T10:04:00.004-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet Thursday, July 30 at 6:30PM in a Special Called Meeting to discuss settlement of the Estes lawsuit. The Mayor Jeff Steele's Town Hall Meeting is scheduled to follow at 7:00PM.

Please click Here to View the Meeting Announcement in a new Window.

One additional note, the Wilmer Academy is scheduled to begin classes August 24 - renovations and improvements to the facility are to begin August 1. Community support is needed to make the new school a success. Volunteer your time today!

Zoning Ordinance Public Hearings

2009-07-22T17:51:00.002-05:00

Planned changes to Wilmer's Zoning Ordinance will be the subject of two public hearings in the coming weeks. The P&Z Commission plans to meet Tuesday, July 28 at 6:30PM to hold the first public hearing. Wilmer City Council will hold a public hearing on the ordinance at their regular meeting on August 20 at 7:30PM. Both meetings will be held in the Wilmer Community Center.

Click Here to View Both Meeting Announcements in a New Window.

Wilmer Requests Banking Proposals

2009-07-21T18:00:00.003-05:00

The City of Wilmer has issued a Request for Proposals for Banking Services. All proposals should be submitted to City Secretary Alice Holloway at City Hall.

Click Her to View the Banking Services RFP Announcement in a New Window.

Wilmer PD Goes Online

2009-07-20T20:13:00.003-05:00

The Wilmer Police Department issued a Media Release stating that the agency will have several avenues of online communications for the public including Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and a dedicated email address for crime tips and information.

MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: Friday 10, 2009

RELEASE DATE: Immediate

CONTACT: Interim Chief Victor Kemp
SUBJECT: Wilmer Police Department use of Internet social networks.

The Wilmer Police Department has begun networking with all the social savvy of a high school student, but for a very different purpose.

Rather than publicizing Friday night shindigs or sharing vacation photos, the department will use the social networking Web sites Facebook, MySpace and Twitter to distribute information and take in feedback in hopes of preventing crimes through education and communicating with it’s citizens, organizations and businesses. The department also has an email address dedicated to “tips” and assures all information received will remain anonymous.

“In this day in age, a lot of people’s primary source of information is the Internet, not newspapers or magazines, this is a way for us to reach them with what we’re doing and what we need help with, it’s another tool to communicate with our community. With Twitter we are able to post information in the event of a missing child for example within minutes in some situations.”

The department also plans to use the sites to post information about recent crimes, post crime prevention tips, public service announcements and current news releases.

The email address for “crime tips” is wilmerpolice1@yahoo.com. You can follow the department at twitter.com by searching user name wilmerpolice1. Become a friend of the department on MySpace at myspace.com/wilmerpolice1, and Facebook by searching Wilmer PD. These sites are in the beginning stages and will grow with posts, pictures and information over time.

The Wilmer Police Department urges YOU....If you SEE it....SAY it....REPORT suspicious activity to law enforcement!

These sites are not monitored, in the event of an emergency call 9-1-1.

Interim Chief Victor Kemp
Wilmer Police Department

Parks Board to Meet Thursday 7:00PM

2009-07-20T20:08:00.004-05:00

The newly appointed Wilmer Parks Board will meet on Thursday, July 23, at 7:00PM in the Wilmer Community Center. Click Here to View the Agenda in a new Window.

Major agenda items include the appointment and election of officers, the adam Street ballpark, and the new Frisbee Golf Park.

Cty Council Meets Thursday 7:30PM

2009-07-14T12:19:00.004-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet in the Wilmer Community Center at 7:30PM Thursday, July 16, for a regularly scheduled meeting.

Click Hewe to View the Full Agenda in a New Window!

TUESDAY EVENING CHAUTAUQUA SERIES

2009-07-07T16:02:00.002-05:00

Beginning tonight at 7:00PM and continuing each Tuesday evening through August, John and Mary Phinney will host the July-August Chautauqua Series of lectures in the Wilmer Community Center.

Before radio, television and the Internet this is what your grandparents and great-grandparents did. It was an annual SUMMER EVENT. An educational and recreational event for everyone. These events were usually weekly programs and lasted four to six weeks. They were held during and mid-summer season---after the crops were planted and before the harvest. In the spirit of the 1990’s through the 1950’s, the City of Wilmer presents, for your enjoyment

July-August Chautauqua Series
Time – 7:00 p.m.
At the WILMER COMMUNITY CENTER

The July lecture series will be presented by renown anthropologist John F.S. Phinney, currently Head/Director, Institute for the Study of Earth & Man Library, SMU; Member, Dept of Anthropology Faculty; Elected to fellowship, Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland.

July 7th The Peopling of North America
July 14th Indians of Texas: Pre-European Contact Period
July 24th Indians of Texas: European Contact Period

The August series will be presented by Mary L.B. Phinney, also an anthropologist and currently the Administrator for the Dallas County Trail and Preserve Program.

August 4th Other Peoples come to Texas 1820-1872
August 11th African & Asian influences 1872 – 21st Century

The lecture series is open to everyone.

Thursday Council Meeting 7:30PM

2009-06-30T14:00:00.000-05:00

The Wilmer City Council will meet at 7:30PM on THursday, July 2, 2009 at the Wilmer Community Center. Click Here to View the Full Agenda in a New Window.

Don't forget to be there by 7:15PM if you would like to address the council and speak at the meeting - see the signup sheet at the table near the door.

Cottonwood Creek Preserve

2009-06-22T23:42:00.016-05:00

Check out this contributed article about last Sunday's outing in the Nature Preserve.

Bright and early Sunday (June 21), Councilwoman Marlena Dyess Planning and Zoning Board member Casey Burgess along with Mayor Steele were given an escorted tour of the Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Preserve. Escort for this tour was Mary Phinney, Administrator for Dallas County Trail and Preserve Program. “Wilmer has been blessed with this natural forest virtually untouched since the 1870’s, right in our own backyard”, said Mayor Steele, “with over 2 miles of surface trails and 220 acres of natural beauty, this is a resource that needs to be addressed."

The Preserve in its current configuration, is divided into two separate areas. The east side of the preserve remains in its natural state, home to deer, flying squirrels, raccoons, armadillos and other native species of animals.

No vehicular traffic is allowed in this area and is accessed only by the hiking trails. The west side has a play ground, picnic pavilion, grills and parking areas. This side is open to future recreational development by the City, which is presently investigating a Frisbee golf course to be located here, as well as future basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields and tennis courts.

“As Wilmer continues to grow and prosper, the recreational needs of our Citizens, becomes more and more important. We have an obligation to provide these types of facilities for our children and their families”, said Councilwoman Dyess.

In the near future, we will be looking for volunteers to help restore some of the signage that needs repainting and to clear off some of the trails to make them more accessible to everyone. If you are interested in helping with this project, please call City Hall at 972.441.6373.

(ED NOTE: ANIMALS ARE NOT TO BE RELEASED INTO THE WILDLIFE PRESERVE FOR GRAZING WITHOUT A PERMIT. PLEASE CALL CITY HALL FOR MORE INFORMATION.)

Gun Control Results Down Under

2009-06-22T12:06:00.002-05:00

Australian Gun Law Update

Here's a thought to warm some of your hearts...
From: Ed Chenel, A Law Enforcement Officer in Australia

Hi Yanks, I thought you all would like to see the real figures from Down Under.

It has now been 12 months since gun owners in Australia were forced by a new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by our own government, a program costing Australia taxpayers more than $500 million dollars.

The first year results are now in:
Australia-wide, homicides are up 6.2 percent,
Australia-wide, assaults are up 9.6 percent;
Australia-wide, armed robberies are up 44 percent (yes, 44 percent)!

In the state of Victoria alone, homicides with firearms are now up 300 percent. (Note that while the law-abiding citizens turned them in, the criminals did not and criminals still possess their guns!)

While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically upward in the past 12 months, since the criminals now are guaranteed that their prey is unarmed.

There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the elderly, while the resident is at home.

Australian politicians are at a loss to explain how public safety has decreased, after such monumental effort and expense was expended in 'successfully ridding Australian society of guns..' You won't see this on the American evening news or hear your governor or members of the State Assembly disseminating this information.

The Australian experience speaks for itself. Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property and, yes, gun-control laws affect only the law-abiding citizens.

Take note Americans, before it's too late!

Will you be one of the sheeple to turn yours in? WHY? You will need it.

Community Garden Raffles Hot Rod

2009-06-20T12:26:00.003-05:00

The Hope Community Garden of Wilmer will hold a raffle on a great looking 1925 Model T Truck Hot Rod! Check out the photo essay.

This HOT ROD belongs to Dale Graham. He is offering the Hope Community Garden of Wilmer to sell Raffle Tickets for this HOT ROD. The tickets will sell for $100.00. Once we have sold 300 Tickets, Dale will bring the HOT ROD to the winning ticket holder. The Hope Community Garden of Wilmer will keep $3,000.00 to further the Garden Project.

Please contact Pamela McQueen if you are interested in purchasing a ticket by telephone at 214-586-4658 or email to pamelamcqueen@hotmail.com

Just an overview of the Hot Rod;

Registered as a 1925 Model T pickup truck. (antique license) 60.00 bucks good for 5 yrs. Speedway motors rolling chassis

with 9" Ford rear end, Mosier axles, 3.25 posi, modified Turbo 350 tranny with Vette lock-up convertor, JEGS performance 350 4 bolt main

SB Chevy, Edelbrock intake and Edelbrock Performer carb 650 cfm. 16 gal fiberglass fuel tank, Optima battery, 25 bucket T extended body

with 24" pick up bed. 39 Ford LED tail lamps, license plate lamps, turn signals, Halogen headlamps, Walker Radiator with 18" electric fan.

Top of the line SW guages, Lokar shifter and linkage, Lokar accelerator pedal, linkage and shift down linkage. MSD HEI distributor. The

upholstery is cream color pleated leather, rear tires are Hoosier 31.5/16.5 X 15 on Weld wheels and the front tires are I Fusion 195/65RX15

on Weld wheels, Bilstein coil over shocks (rear), Speedway Motors Ceramic headers with sprint car baffled exhaust pipes, Corvair reverse

steering gear box (20:1), Painless wiring harness, Penta-Star brake/turn LED lamps , Grant removable Steering Wheel (sprint car style).

The previous owner gave me well over 22,000.00 worth of receipts and said he easily spent another 1000.00+ for specialty bolts,

fasteners, stainless braided hoses, brake line and fuel line fabrication and declined to say how much he spent for labor but I know it was a

chunk. Further modifications are in progress but vehicle is worth a solid 25,000.00 or more to the right buyer and as a raffle easily good for