Voters overwhelmingly approve city charter

Van Alstyne voters overwhelming approved the adoption of a city charter by a margin of 76 percent to 24 percent. The city will now be classified as a “home rule” city with the ability to make more decisions on the local level. Previously the city could only exercise powers specifically granted by the state legislature. Mayor Jim Atchison says that the move was a necessary one.

“This is the natural progression for Texas cities,” he said. “As we grow in population the charter grants the power of local self-government to our citizens. Now we may act in any way that is not prohibited by state or federal laws. “

According to unofficial numbers reported by the Grayson County Election Administration, 203 voters supported the measure. A total of 267 people voted in the election

Over the next several months, Atchison says that the council will work with the city attorney to improve existing ordinances and streamline processes that will enable it to better respond to growth that is occurring.

Butler, Williams Win Council Contests

The races for city council were slightly closer. In the Place 2 alderman contest, incumbent Marla Butler topped challenger Ryan Laing by a margin of 59 to 41 percent. Butler received 147 votes.

In the Place 3 Alderman race, Dusty Williams topped Robert Jaska by a margin of 74 to 24 percent. Williams received 190 of the 251 votes cast and will replace outgoing alderman Bruce Dawsey.

Place 1 Alderman Ryan Neal will also return to his seat after facing no opposition in his race.