COUNCIL WRAP-UP MEETING DATE: APRIL 21ST, 2026
ZONING STANDARDS APPROVED FOR DONATION COLLECTION CENTERS Council approved an ordinance amending the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to establish a definition and zoning standards for Donation Collection Centers and related uses. This establishes clear regulations for donation collection centers, where previously only donation bins were addressed. The ordinance also outlines where these uses are permitted and requires a Conditional Use Permit, ensuring proper oversight and that any proposed donation collection center is compatible with the surrounding area.
COUNCIL APPROVES NEXT STEPS FOR PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY AND FIRE STATION #3 PLANNING
Council approved authorizing two task orders with WRA Architects to support long-term public safety planning, including a needs assessment for a future Public Safety Facility and evaluation of a potential site for Fire Station #3. As the current Forney Police Department facility approaches capacity and the need for additional fire coverage continues to grow, this effort supports Council’s priority of maintaining a high level of public safety. The Forney Fire Department currently holds an ISO Class 1 rating, the highest possible designation that reflects exceptional fire protection capabilities, including staffing, equipment, training, and water supply. Maintaining this rating is important not only for emergency response but also because it can help keep homeowners’ insurance costs lower for residents. This effort helps ensure the City is planning to preserve a high level of service as the community continues to grow. The study will assess current facility conditions, identify space and operational needs, review comparable facilities, and evaluate site options, costs, funding strategies, and timelines, providing Council with a clear, data-driven recommendation for next steps.
COUNCIL ESTABLISHES REGULATIONS FOR DATA CENTER USES
Council approved an ordinance amending the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance to add a definition and establish zoning regulations for data center uses within the use charts. As part of the amendment, the required setback from residential areas was increased from 1,000 feet to 5,000 feet. This action does not approve any specific project and instead adds stricter regulations to any potential future request. Any data center proposal would still be required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit and go through the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council review process before consideration for approval. The next council meeting will be on May 5th. More information at forneytx.gov/meetings