I suspect that by now, most of you are aware that on Feb. 14, I submitted my resignation to the City Secretary and officially ended my tenure as your voice at City Hall.
I did so in order to prepare for a race to fill the State Senate seat being vacated by Sen. John Leedom.
It wasn’t an easy decision for me because my service on the Council has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Working with the people of Lake Highlands has reaffirmed for me the belief that ours is the best neighborhood in Dallas.
Together we have made a difference in Lake Highlands. After two and a half years of very hard work, a comprehensive land use plan was unanimously approved by the Council.
We’ve reduced the number of apartments that could be developed in our community by changing zoning on several large tracts of vacant land. With more than 60 percent of the dwelling units in Lake Highlands being multi-family, we have more than our share of rental units and don’t need anymore.
We’ve fought insensitive property owners in Lake Highlands and even managed to get one slum torn down. We’ve used the zoning process to clean up several properties that have plagued our neighborhood for years. With the apartment licensing program in place, we now have a tool for dealing with the ongoing problems at marginal properties.
Working with the Police Department, we’ve reduced (almost eliminated) the gang activity in Lake Highlands. We’ve increased the number of active neighborhood crime watch groups and promoted apartment crime watch efforts throughout Lake Highlands. Our Apartment Manager’s Crime program is a model for the rest of Dallas.
Much of my time and energy has been focused on our children. We have City support for after-school programs at Skyview Elementary and in the Vickery Meadow area. Through a generous donation from the White Rock Kiwanis Club, we will soon have a new playground at Flag Pole Hill and handicapped children will have a place to play.
Road humps on neighborhood streets have reduced the threat of traffic accidents that might harm our children. New park land north of LBJ and an addition at Lake Highlands North Recreation Center will provide recreational activities for decades to come.
The phone call from Dr. Bob Smith, which initiated the creation of Better Kids. Better Dallas., was and will remain one of the greatest joys of my life. During the past 12 months, thousands of young people have benefited from the various elements of the program. Many caring citizens of Lake Highlands contributed to our first year’s success, and I am grateful.
I could go on for days, but I don’t think Rick Wamre would appreciate it.
As I leave the Council, I take with me cherished memories and wonderful friendships that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
