Get involved in your neighborhood

I was not sure what I was getting into with Dr. Gabriel Bach's assignment to follow the Irving City Council meetings during March 2009. Two council work sessions took place on March 4 and 25, and two council meetings on March 5 and 26. I hoped for the best.

A work session is used to give information to council members and direction to city staff. Should issues be placed on a regular or special meeting of the council for city action and deliberation, or citizens' input? Work sessions usually prepare the council for its next council session's decisions. March issues discussed included city parks maintenance and development, DART, water conservation concerns in the current drought period, State Highway 183 construction schedule and potential cost overruns, the Texas Stadium demolition project, and the shortage of Irving police officers.

City council members make decisions in city council meetings. They vote for or against an issue and may make additional inquiries to the city staff and or concerned citizens.

March's concerns were City Code Enforcement in action resulting in dramatic improvements in some parts of Irving, updates about the Irving Fire Department and paramedics, videos showing what the city does for those who need help in today's economy, and questions about federal financial assistance.

What I liked was the mayor recognizing and thanking residents and organizations who contributed to making Irving a better place. I liked also the fact that residents have a few minutes to express their opinion about what's happening in Irving.

I did not understand everything that was discussed and all the things they voted on, like zoning and landowner rights, but these meetings told me one important thing: to get involved in my community and get my voice heard if I did not like what's happening.

I am glad Dr. Bach gave me this opportunity. I know now how and where to go if I ever have concerns in my neighborhood.

- Edgar Cruz was a student in Dr. Bach's spring government class.