FORNEY, TEXAS – The Forney City Council is poised to deliberate on a contentious proposal that seeks to convert 50 acres of land in the Wayfare Addition from single-family residential (SFR) to multi-family residential (MFR) use during its upcoming regular meeting on January 21 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will take place at the City Hall Annex located at 101 E. Main Street.
FORNEY, TEXAS – The Forney City Council is poised to deliberate on a contentious proposal that seeks to convert 50 acres of land in the Wayfare Addition from single-family residential (SFR) to multi-family residential (MFR) use during its upcoming regular meeting on January 21 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will take place at the City Hall Annex located at 101 E. Main Street.
The proposal, submitted by Langan Engineering on behalf of the property owner, has generated significant pushback from local residents. During a recent Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, 19 residents voiced their opposition before a vote was taken, citing concerns about potential increases in crime, drainage issues, traffic congestion, and the overall impact of multi-family housing on community growth.
Despite the strong opposition, the Planning and Zoning Commission ultimately recommended approval of the final plat, which outlines the necessary boundary lines and easements for the proposed hybrid multi-family development. The commission voted 4-1 in favor of the recommendation, with the dissenting vote raised by a member who expressed concerns about the rapid changes in land use and its implications for the community.
Here is the complete 40 minute discussion on the item from the January 2nd Planning and Zoning meeting:
The upcoming city council meeting is expected to attract a strong turnout from residents who oppose the project, mirroring the passionate feedback witnessed at the commission meeting. Community members are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions during the public hearing portion of the meeting, which will also provide an opportunity for council members to address resident concerns.
As the property is located within Forney's extra-territorial jurisdiction (ETJ), it is not subject to city zoning regulations, complicating the council's ability to enforce land use restrictions. However, all subdivisions must comply with the City of Forney's Subdivision Ordinance standards, and the civil plans for drainage and traffic are currently under review by Kaufman County and the City Engineer.
The city council's decision will be pivotal in shaping the future of the Wayfare Addition and the broader landscape of Forney. Residents and stakeholders alike are urged to stay informed and engaged as the meeting approaches.