Dallas | District 3 news and plans for 2011 from CM Neumann

Please allow me to share some updates from across our District 3 and plans for 2011. I appreciate your feedback.
		Oak Cliff Gateway - Economic Development Economic Development is of critical importance to our Oak Cliff community. The Oak Cliff Gateway area encompasses Methodist Hospital, Lake Cliff Park, Oak Farm Dairy, and a vast area facing the Trinity River and Downtown on the Oak Cliff side. This past week, in concert with Councilwoman Jasso, I created a task force of neighbors and property owners to expedite the rezoning and redevelopment of this area. It is our hope that our collective efforts will result in new private investment and jobs which transforms a "blank canvas" warehouse area into retail, commercial, and residential properties at the foot of the Trinity which will, of course, include our Oak Cliff Streetcar system. Stay tuned.
		Dallas Animal Shelter I am honored to announce the recent appointment of Chris Watts, a resident of Winnetka Heights as our Animal Shelter Commission appointee. I have charged Chris with the responsibility of not only representing D3 residents for the efficient and effective operation of the Shelter, but to provide recommendations of the care and custody of our animals throughout our District and the City. Your number one 3-1-1 concern continues to be loose, stray, and aggressive animals. I am dedicated to working with you, City Staff, and leaders throughout the city to meet the need of being fair and compassionate to our animals wherever they live while insisting on accountability for pet owners.
		Hampton/Illinois Library We have a great Branch Library in the heart of Oak Cliff, the Hampton/Illinois Library. At Christmas, I was honored to participate (for the third year) in the Annual Christmas Party for our neighborhood kids. It was a fun-filled afternoon of reading books, sharing family experiences, and learning about the great opportunities with "our" Branch Library. Come visit Hampton/Illinois Library located directly across from Kiest Park.
		Gas Drilling on HOLD I am pleased to report that after considerable community feedback, I have recommended and the City Council has approved a postponement of the Gas Drilling request for Hensley Field (far West Oak Cliff) until October 12, 2011. My intention is to seek better information about the science, risks, and benefits of Gas Drilling within our city before we begin this process. I have heard from many citizens, both by email, letters, and phone calls voicing your concerns. Rest assured, we will go slow, be smart and fair in evaluating this issue.
		2011 Dallas Bike Plan NEXT PUBLIC MEETING - THURSDAY, JANUARY 20, 2011 Dallas City Hall Flag Room (6E North) Review the revised network recommendation maps based on comments from the September Public Meeting and a full draft of the 2011 Dallas Bike Plan. Visit our web site at www.dallasbikeplan.org for more details on the agenda as the time gets near.
		Principal for a Day: Stevens Park Elementary Twice each year, I spend a day at one of our DISD schools as Principal for a Day. Although schools are outside of the City's direct responsibility, it is my responsibility as your Councilman, to stay connected and responsive to the needs of families, parents, and children within our neighborhood schools. Stevens Park Elementary, located near Colorado and Fort Worth Avenue, is lead by Silvia Martinez who is charged with setting high standards to educate our children in a safe, healthy environment. Together, we identified increasing police presence for after school conflicts with children, and considering changing drop off and pick-up street directions on Colorado Avenue. Another Partnership in the making.
		Please Contact Me I value your feedback on how I can help you, your neighborhood, and the City of Dallas become a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant place to live and work. Please contact me via email david.neumann@dallascityhall.com or phone at 214-670-0776 with suggestions or feedback on how I can continue to better serve you.
Please keep in touch! Thanks - Dave Dave Neumann Dallas City Council, District 3