I start my comments today differently. I have been honored to serve as the Mayor of Northlake for the past 12 years: Thank YOU for the privilege of serving you. The transition is going well, and I wish David Rettig, the next mayor, the best. I oversaw my last council meeting on April 25th. The council members that attended were cordial, thoughtful, and respectful to each other and the attendees: A meeting we have not had since last May.
Now on to the other comments:
The Good:
As always, we are still in discussions with additional commercial and retail businesses to bring jobs and modern conveniences to the residents of Northlake. Having a comprehensive plan and following it, current regulations, responsiveness, low municipal tax rate, exceptional schools, and housing options are major factors companies find favorable and have been attracting businesses to Northlake.
The Town is still a final candidate for another corporate facility that has the potential to bring additional ad valorem and sales tax revenue to the Town. If the company choses Northlake it will ensure the tax rate remains low for our citizens, despite at least one Councilmember wanting no growth. Additionally, we are still in talks with several businesses to open new restaurants and other businesses to Northlake and bring additional jobs to the region.
The Unpleasant:
Recently-elected council members are considering bringing forth an ordinance to restrict or limit your Second Amendment rights: Sad. Individuals continue to mislead people on Facebook page (Northlake Neighbor To Neighbor) with deceptive/partial information.
Last word:
I would say if you like the progress of Northlake, get involved please. We need elected individuals that have principles not a personal agenda. Sorry to say we have at least one. We need to work together for the best interest of all of us and continue to improve Northlake, and not dwell on the past. The Police, staff, and all departments do their best to serve you, I am proud of them. That said: I am disgusted that new councilmembers question the police procedures and operations, and inferring the town needs to limit your 1st and 2nd Constitutional rights.
If you have suggestions or comments on how to enrich and improve Northlake for all, please let the Town staff and elected officials know. I still encourage everyone to take the time to attend at least one Council meeting in the next year to see how your Town Officials communicates and make decisions, all agendas and Council packets are posted on the Town’s official website.
I encourage questions, concerns or recommendations not be made on Facebook. Rather direct them to the staff or an elected representative(s) via their official e-mail. Social media is not public to every resident, Town e-mails are. The staff and I are always willing to answer any questions or address concerns, when inquiries are made this way, they become public record. If you hear or see something on social media that interests you, contact the Town to voice your views. All facts and voices should be heard and not only presented by a few who hide on the internet. Your voice and opinion matter. Contact information for staff and councilmembers is located at www.town.northlake.tx.us.
I you have any desire to be part of the process and have a positive impact on our Town, February of 2020 is the next time to sign up to run for Town Council , place 1, 2, and 3 positions will be on the ballot.
The Town has a bright future and continues to welcome everyone for generations to come.
Again, thank you for the privilege of representing you and the Town for the past 12 years.
Peter Dewing, JD., CWO3/USMC (ret), Mayor, 940-390-4303, [email protected]
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