This does bring up an issue that I am addressing. I recently placed an item on the agenda to implement a social media program for the City of Rockwall.  A significant portion of the news about the City of Rockwall is negative or controversial. The News and media reporting on the City of Rockwall do not make money on positive news. It appears that negativism and bad news are the only stories that get readers and sell ads. The City of Rockwall has so many positive aspects and good news stories that the public is never aware of. I believe that it is the Cities responsibility to inform the citizens of the good thing that Rockwall does. I have proposed, and the staff is addressing, using Social Media to inform citizens from the city prospective. Cities and other forms of government are utilizing Twitter, Facebook, and other forms of social media to keep their citizens informed of news, events and positions. The demographics show that a large portion of Rockwall citizens already use social media to keep informed. It is time we utilize this form of communication. In the coming months  The Rockwall City Council will be listening to recommendations about our Social Media Policies and a program to keep you , the citizen, informed of the true story.I look forward to this addition to the New Horizon.

The Rockwall Independent School District was instrumental in bringing the B&G Club to Rockwall. No one questions the RISD about their support. Where is the National B&G Club and why aren’t they trying to help? Is it really the economy or is the B&G club fat at the top? Valid questions I think. In reality the only one to help the B&G Club is itself and the board who governs it. Where were they in the WFAA Channel 8 Report?

My first term on city council has been an experience. Having served 3 years on the parks board and 9 months as a planning and zoning commissioner I had a pretty good insight into the job of councilman. I can honestly say that I greatly underestimated the  commitment and shear workload associated with the position. The time commitment is at least 20 hours a week and sometimes more. I embrace this responsibility and will continue to fulfill that commitment. Rockwall is a growing community and there are many issues associated with a city in that position. Nonetheless I feel I am contributing to the success of Rockwall and will continue to serve for the next term.

Stay The Course.

With no opponent my basic philosophy for the next  2 years is “Stay The Course”. I receive a lot of feedback from citizens who support my voting record and my leadership as a whole. It is important for me to hear from you, The Citizens of Rockwall. Your input is crucial in the formation of my values and decisions on issues facing the City of Rockwall. I encourage you to contact me by phone or e-mail and let me know how you feel.

The Council.

Overall I am pleased with the leadership of the Council. I have nothing but respect for those who choose to serve their community. This is the first time that I can remember that 3 council members and a Mayor were unopposed in an election cycle. This speaks volumes about the council and indicates to me that this City Council has  huge support from the community and that our overall values and leadership are embraced by the community as a whole. I really enjoy working with this group. Each council member brings something to the table. I can honestly say we enjoy and embrace the responsibility bestowed upon us by the citizens of Rockwall.

Focus

PD-32 (the hill above the Rockwall Harbor) will eventually be a premier development in Rockwall. Coy Talley and Associates has completed the concept plan and the sub committee is meeting to determine what needs to be done next. Let me emphasize that the City of Rockwall is not the developer of this property. Even though Rockwall owns the largest amount of land on the hill our role is to ensure that the development that does occur is the highest and best use of the land. The tax revenue, both sales tax and ad valorem tax will have a significant impact on the Citizens of Rockwall. It is our responsibility and duty to ensure that this development is beneficial to all concerned.

I will close this blog for now and will continue to write periodically about my thoughts and decisions as a 2nd term council member in Rockwall, Texas.

Glen Farris Updates

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