The letter, addressed to “Gateway Parks Residents,” appears to be the builders’ first public response since a series of contentious council discussions that began several weeks ago. Multiple residents have criticized the builders for not attending council meetings or responding publicly to safety concerns raised by homeowners.
In the letter, the companies explained that they intentionally limited their public comments until the City Council had voted on their land plats, citing respect for “the formal legal and administrative process.”
Builders Acknowledge Resident Frustration
The developers acknowledge the growing sentiment among residents that they felt unheard.
“We know that over the past few weeks, many of you have felt that your concerns were not being heard or that Ashton Woods was absent from the conversation,” the letter states. “We understand that frustration.”
Furthermore, the companies recognize that while the council vote primarily focused on platting and land use, the real community conversation has shifted toward safety, accountability, and neighborhood standards—the same issues raised repeatedly during public comments on Tuesday night.
The letter asserts their “goal is to promote accountability, stability, and community standards for everyone.”
Forney Police Department Contacted By Ashton Woods
One notable claim in the letter is that Ashton Woods and Starlight Homes have already begun collaborating with the Forney Police Department and the city on safety initiatives. This includes supporting a community watch program managed by the police.
During Tuesday’s meeting, both council members and law enforcement highlighted increased crime trends, calls for service, and enforcement challenges within Gateway Parks and surrounding high-rental neighborhoods.
Developers Propose Advisory Board of Homeowners
In response to ongoing frustrations regarding HOA governance and communication gaps, the builders are studying the creation of a resident advisory board composed of representatives from within Gateway Parks.
This narrower working-group format could enable the city and residents to address critical issues such as:
Code enforcement
Neighborhood safety needs
HOA communication
Long-term governance
Community standards
The letter states that this focused approach would be “more effective than a large-scale forum” and would allow for “closer connectivity and communication with Gateway Parks residents… on a consistent basis.”
The letter concludes by emphasizing a renewed commitment to working directly with residents now that the platting vote is resolved.
“We are committed to Gateway Parks and look forward to working together in the spirit of collaboration and community,” the builders write.
This message arrives during a period of heightened attention on Gateway Parks, with residents and city officials alike calling for increased accountability, transparency, and safety measures.
