Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Forney public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
20 issues with critical priority
Commercial Development Expansion
Approval of multiple plats and site plans for new retail, restaurant, entertainment, and housing options in the Village at Gateway development, expanding services and amenities for Forney residents.
Industrial Park Concept Plan Amendment for Planned Development 22-25
Shifting a 25-acre light industrial site from a single massive distribution warehouse to multiple smaller buildings. This change aims to reduce heavy semi-truck traffic in the area while bringing in more flexible business park space.
Abatement of Substandard Residential Structures
The city is cracking down on long-neglected properties that pose safety hazards and drag down neighborhood property values. Officials will weigh whether owners can afford to fix them up or if the city should step in to mandate repairs or demolition.
Comprehensive Data Center Prohibition
Forney officials are on high alert after a neighboring county got slapped with a $100 million lawsuit for trying to block data centers. It’s a wake-up call that zoning restrictions need to be airtight to avoid burning through taxpayer cash in court.
FY 2026-2027 Budget and Tax Rate
The city council discussed the upcoming FY 2026 budget and tax rates based on certified property values. To allow more time for review, the council scheduled a special meeting for late August to consider the proposed tax rate.
Parking Standards in Industrial Districts
Forney residents are fighting a new development project, worried that more growth will lead to higher crime rates in their neighborhoods. The City Council is now stuck in the middle, trying to balance the town's expansion with the safety concerns of locals.
Rental Inspection and Crime Addendum
A resident expressed concerns during open forum regarding high concentrations of rental homes and potential section 8 allocations in new master-planned subdivisions, impacting home resale values.
Data Center Prohibition
Forney is tightening the rules on where cigar and hookah lounges can set up shop. This update clarifies exactly what counts as a lounge, which will likely limit where these businesses can open in the future.
Library and YMCA Bond Proposal
The city is putting together a bond package for a new recreational facility to go before voters this November. Residents and council members debated the measure before it narrowly passed, setting up a decision for voters on future city infrastructure and spending.
Public Safety and Crime Prevention
Police Chief White presented the 2024 crime report, showing a slight decrease in overall NIBRS crimes per capita. The council discussed increases in domestic violence and proactive narcotics enforcement.
City Council Runoff Election
Forney is heading to the polls this Saturday to pick a new representative for the City Council Place 4 seat. This vote is a big deal because whoever wins gets a direct say in how our tax dollars are spent and how the city grows.
Early Redemption of 2013 Sales Tax Revenue Bonds
The EDC is paying off its old 2013 bonds ahead of schedule to cut down on interest costs. This smart financial move frees up revenue for future economic development projects in Forney.
Public Safety Staffing
Forney is growing fast, but the police department is struggling to keep up with the influx of new residents. The city is currently weighing how to scale up public safety resources to ensure response times don't slip as the population explodes.
Community Park Safety
Forney Community Park got shut down by police after a massive fight broke out at an unsanctioned party. Expect the city to start cracking down on park rules or beefing up security to keep things under control.
Emergency Services Contracting
Forney is booming, and the city is trying to figure out which ambulance company can actually keep up with the 911 calls. It’s a high-stakes decision that determines how fast an ambulance shows up when you're having an emergency.
Emergency Services Contract
Forney is leveling up its emergency medical contract with CareFlite to make sure ambulances actually show up when they're supposed to. It’s all about tightening the rules so you get faster, more reliable help during a crisis.
Citywide Drainage Study and Stormwater Utility District
The city is launching a $95,500 master plan and rate study to address local flooding and lay the groundwork for a new stormwater utility district that will fund capital projects and maintenance.
Oncor Electric Delivery Company Rate Increase
Council voted to suspend Oncor's requested 12.3% rate hike for 90 days, joining regional cities to challenge the steep cost increases.
Emergency Repairs for Pump Station 2
The council authorized staff to seek emergency vendors to repair Pump Station 2 to protect local water and utility infrastructure.
Urban Growth
Forney is exploding in popularity, which is great for the local economy but means you'll be dealing with way more traffic and constant construction zones. Expect your daily commute to get a lot busier as the city struggles to keep up with all the new residents moving in.