1. Anti-smoking forces are amassing for what looks to be a short and pointless fight. If anyone thinks the latest smoking ordinance–the one that will ban smoking from bars–won’t pass, and soon, they are kidding themselves. But hey, by all means, run up the score. Says councilman Ron Natinsky, “There is no sense in leaving this smoldering for any time longer than is necessary.” Smoldering–ha, I see what I did there. Well played, Ronny.
2. The Bridge, the city’s new homeless center, has been overwhelmed by demand in its first month and change of operation. That led the Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance to cancel its contract with PATH Partners of Los Angeles to provide caseworkers and other social services; the MDHA wants to be quicker to adapt. My takeaway? It’s going to be a bumpy first year, and there will be other hiccups, but it’s working so far.
3. Mayor Leppert tried to wrap his XL paws around Deep Ellum on Friday. One thing that eluded his grasp: Beck Ventures’ purchase of 10 acres.
