Fate’s Alternative to a $20 Million Bond: Practical Solutions and Leadership Change Needed
Following widespread criticism of our support against the City of Fate’s proposed $20 million bond, it is clear that residents asked us to provide cost-effective and realistic alternatives to building an extravagant, oversized police station. The proposed bond seeks to construct a 20,000-square-foot police facility, which many believe to be both financially burdensome and unnecessary. However, we believe there are viable, pragmatic solutions that would meet the needs of the Fate Department of Public Safety (DPS) without saddling taxpayers with millions of dollars in debt.
Of course, it must be said that these are off the cuff suggestions. Should the citizens of Fate decide to vote down the proposed bond we will be granted more time in which to do a deep dive into the issue. As it stands, the city blindsided the community with this bond proposal, leaving little time for a thorough investigation into available options … but this is exactly what they wanted.
Cost-Effective Alternatives: Renting and Repurposing
Instead of constructing a new police station, the city could explore renting nearby industrial space, such as Rockwall Park 30, which is conveniently located just outside Fate’s city limits. Rockwall Park 30 offers flexible industrial spaces ranging from 20,000 to 157,000 square feet. Renting space at Rockwall Park 30 provides two major advantages: it allows for an immediate expansion without the hefty upfront costs of construction, and it maintains adaptability for future growth. The city would have the flexibility to adjust its rental space as needed, depending on the changing needs of the police department. A bond to cover the finish out would still be needed, but it would significantly drop the bond to a more manageable level.
Despite the claims of some, there are times when renting is more advantageous than owning. The bond will cost taxpayers approximately $1,400,000 per year. This is significantly more than the rent that would be paid for the same amount of space. Furthermore, it allows us something much more valuable … time. Time to find better solutions. Time to allow for interest rates to return to normal.
Another alternative is repurposing existing space at Fate’s City Hall. There is space at city hall that is used extremely inefficiently, and it might be possible to swap this space with the Police Department, who currently works out of a modest 3,000 square feet next to a local donut shop. This reallocation of space would make the most out of existing infrastructure without incurring additional debt. An adjacent solution might be to build onto the existing City Hall. Actually, this is another example of an inept council and City Manager as this should have been an option before the City Hall building was designed. It would have been of little effort, or cost, to preplan for an expansion wing to the building … opportunity lost.
A 20,000 Square Foot Station: An Overblown Ask?
It’s important to question why Police Chief Lyle Lombard believes a new 20,000-square-foot police station is necessary. The reality is that the police department has been operating efficiently out of just 3,000 square feet of retail space. Under Lombard’s leadership, Fate’s police officers have successfully maintained law and order, proving their capability with the existing resources at hand. Given this success, it seems highly excessive to multiply the department’s space by a factor of six without six-fold growth in either the city’s population or crime rate to justify such an expense.
If the Chief feels that some expansion is necessary, a more moderate increase in space—such as relocating to a 6,000-square-foot facility—would suffice for at least the next few years. To argue that 20,000 square feet is essential defies logic and data. Fate has not seen exponential growth that would justify such an enormous increase in space, and it is unlikely to experience six times the growth in the near future. This oversized proposal not only strains taxpayers financially, but it also raises questions about whether city leadership is making data-driven decisions or pursuing grandiose projects that fail to deliver genuine value to residents.
If Construction Is the Path: Consider a Fabricated Steel Building
For those insisting on new construction, it’s critical to rethink the type of building the city aims to construct. Police stations do not need to be luxurious, architecturally ambitious buildings. If the City of Fate moves forward with construction, they should explore more affordable options, such as a fabricated steel structure. Prefabricated steel buildings offer durability, lower construction costs, and faster build times, making them a sensible alternative to the proposed $500-per-square-foot police station.
Building a functional, cost-efficient structure will ensure that the department has the resources it needs to operate effectively while remaining fiscally responsible. This approach also provides taxpayers with a more transparent use of their money, ensuring that funds are not being squandered on unnecessary extravagance.
If this option had been explored the proposed bond would have been significantly less. But they didn’t really explore ALL options. They wanted to cram this proposal through before the next Fate Council Election in May. Following widespread criticism of the City of Fate’s proposed $20 million bond, it is clear that residents need cost-effective and realistic alternatives to building an extravagant, oversized police station. The proposed bond seeks to construct a 20,000-square-foot police facility, which many believe to be both financially burdensome and unnecessary. However, there are viable, pragmatic solutions that would meet the needs of the Fate Department of Public Safety (DPS) without saddling taxpayers with millions of dollars in debt.
Cost-Effective Alternatives: Renting and Repurposing
Instead of constructing a new police station, the city could explore renting nearby industrial space, such as Rockwall Park 30, which is conveniently located just outside Fate’s city limits. Rockwall Park 30 offers flexible industrial spaces ranging from 20,000 to 157,000 square feet. Renting space at Rockwall Park 30 provides two major advantages: it allows for an immediate expansion without the hefty upfront costs of construction, and it maintains adaptability for future growth. The city would have the flexibility to adjust its rental space as needed, depending on the changing needs of the police department. This way, taxpayers aren’t locked into a long-term financial commitment that cannot be undone.
Another alternative is repurposing existing space at Fate’s City Hall. Currently, the Planning & Development offices occupy a sizable portion of the City Hall building, while the Police Department works out of a modest 3,000 square feet next to a local donut shop. One solution is to swap these offices, relocating the Planning & Development department to the existing police facility while bringing the DPS Command & Control operations back to City Hall. This reallocation of space would make the most out of existing infrastructure without incurring additional debt. Is this option realistic? We don’t know for sure … if the City had responded to our Open Records Request, we would know if the option was even discussed. But as it stands, the city is stonewalling our request… more on that in another article.
A 20,000 Square Foot Station: An Overblown Ask?
It’s important to question why Police Chief Lyle Lombard believes a new 20,000-square-foot police station is necessary. In fact, we have been criticized for not discussing the matter with the Chief and we freely admit that we haven’t. The reason? Because it’s not necessary. We already know his opinion because it is baked into the proposal for the bond and backed up by all the comments from the shills for the department.
The reality is that the police department has been operating efficiently out of just 3,000 square feet of retail space. Under Lombard’s leadership, Fate’s police officers have successfully maintained law and order, proving their capability with the existing resources at hand. Given this success, it seems highly excessive to multiply the department’s space by a factor of six without six-fold growth in either the city’s population or crime rate.
If the Chief feels that an expansion is necessary, a more moderate increase in space—such as relocating to a 6,000-square-foot facility—would suffice for at least the next few years. To argue that 20,000 square feet is essential defies logic and data. Fate has not seen exponential growth that would justify such an enormous increase in space, and it is unlikely to experience six times the growth in the near future. This oversized proposal not only strains taxpayers financially, but it also raises questions about whether city leadership is making data-driven decisions or pursuing grandiose projects that fail to deliver genuine value to residents.
If Construction Is the Path: Consider a Fabricated Steel Building
For those insisting on new construction, it’s critical to rethink the type of building the city aims to construct. Police stations do not need to be luxurious, architecturally ambitious buildings. If the City of Fate moves forward with construction, it should explore more affordable options, such as a fabricated steel structure. Prefabricated steel buildings offer durability, lower construction costs, and faster build times, making them a sensible alternative to the proposed $500-per-square-foot police station.
Building a functional, cost-efficient structure will ensure that the department has the resources it needs to operate effectively while remaining fiscally responsible. This approach also provides taxpayers with a more transparent use of their money, ensuring that funds are not being squandered on unnecessary extravagance.
This option would have led to a much significantly lower bond proposal. But the Council didn’t take the necessary time to evaluate all options. They simply wanted to force a bond through before the next Fate Council Election in May 2025 … fearing that they will lose two more seats to fiscal conservatives … and likely replacing City Manager, Michael Kovacs.
Leadership’s Role in Effective Planning: A Call for Change
If indeed Fate’s Department of Public Safety is facing critical space issues, the root of the problem lies in failed leadership. Michael Kovacs, has consistently shown a lack of effective planning and fiscal responsibility. Under his leadership, the city finds itself in a position where it must choose between heavy debt or inefficient use of existing facilities. This situation speaks to a larger issue of mismanagement and a lack of foresight in city planning.
A new City Manager, with a fresh perspective and a commitment to responsible governance, could steer Fate toward creative, practical solutions. New leadership would prioritize the long-term interests of residents, embracing more innovative and fiscally sound options. Michael Kovacs’ track record of wasteful spending, including the luxury of a private vehicle on the taxpayers’ dime and indulgent out-of-town conferences, highlights a failure to focus on the essential needs of the community. Fate’s taxpayers deserve leadership that prioritizes common-sense solutions over ego-driven projects.
Conclusion: Better Solutions Are Available
The proposed $20 million bond is not the only way to address the needs of Fate’s Department of Public Safety. Those within the City and those on the Council who are gaslighting citizens with hyperbolic claims of Citizen Safety on the line. Or those who make asinine claims of “Defunding the Police”, are doing damage to the reputation of our great city. There may be solutions that we haven’t even considered. What citizens need, is time. Time to consider other options. Time to find creative solutions.
Ultimately, the issues facing the DPS are not due to a lack of space, but rather due to poor leadership, ineffective planning, and a lack of vision. This decision should be pushed until after the May election, and after the Council is able to find a new city manager. Michael Kovacs’ tenure has shown a pattern of mismanagement and a lack of responsible planning. Residents should demand better and advocate for solutions that are realistic, efficient, and in the best interest of the taxpayers.
The proposed $20 million bond is not the answer to Fate’s public safety needs. There are smarter, more sustainable solutions available. It’s time for Fate to reject this costly proposal and demand accountability from its leadership. A new direction and fresh ideas can ensure that the city remains safe, while also protecting the financial well-being of its residents.
Fate, Texas — The City of Fate has completed its review of the recall petition targeting City Councilwoman Codi Chinn, formally verifying the petition as valid and clearing the way for a recall election to be ordered by the City Council.
City officials confirmed that 396 signatures from registered Fate voters were verified and accepted, exceeding the 351 signatures required under the city’s home rule charter. With the verification process complete, the matter now advances to the City Council on Monday, January 26th, which is legally required to call a recall election in accordance with Texas election law.
Under the charter, the action is administerial and the council has no discretion to reject or delay a properly presented petition. Chinn will be given an opportunity for a hearing to address the council, if she chooses, but it will not change the fact that a recall election must be held.
A Stark Electoral Comparison
The verified signature count carries added political significance when viewed against the backdrop of Chinn’s original election.
In June 2024, Chinn prevailed in a runoff election against challenger Cinnamon Krause, winning by a margin of 835 votes (56.92%) to 632 votes (43.08%). The recall petition, which gathered over 400 signatures in approximately one week, represents almost half the total number of votes Chinn received citywide in her election.
While a recall petition is not a direct proxy for voter intent, the comparison underscores the speed and scale of the opposition effort, as well as citizen dissatisfaction with Chinn, particularly in a city where municipal turnout is typically modest and electoral margins are measured in the hundreds, rather than the thousands.
From Certification to the Ballot
With the petition signatures verified and considered “Sufficient”, the recall effort now enters its next—and most consequential—phase. If the council follows the standard timeline, the recall election is expected to be placed on the May ballot, coinciding with regularly scheduled municipal elections for City Council Place 2 (Mark Harper) and Place 3 (Scott Kelley).
Harper and Kelley have not yet announced if they intend to run for reelection.
The recall ballot will present voters with a single question: whether Codi Chinn should be removed from office before the expiration of her term in May 2027. A simple majority is required for removal. If the recall succeeds, the resulting vacancy would be filled by appointment of the council. If it fails, Chinn would retain her seat for the remainder of her term.
Election
Texas AI Attack Ad Sparks Outrage After Showing Jasmine Crockett and John Cornyn Dancing “Washington Waltz” in Heated Senate Race
AUSTIN, Texas — A controversy over the use of artificial intelligence in political advertising has erupted in the Texas U.S. Senate race, after a newly released AI-generated video depicts Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and Senator John Cornyn dancing together in stylized scenes meant to satirize their relationship in Washington, D.C. The ad, issued by Texas Attorney General and GOP Senate contender Ken Paxton’s campaign, has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum and underscored growing concerns about the use of synthetic media in elections.
The ad, which circulated online beginning around January 16, 2026, shows AI-rendered versions of Crockett and Cornyn engaged in choreographed dancing inside what appears to be a dance hall and in front of the U.S. Capitol. According to reporting, the visuals are meant to reference past remarks in which Cornyn described Crockett as his “dance partner” in the Senate in a metaphorical sense, highlighting their occasional bipartisan cooperation.
What Happened
Ken Paxton’s campaign released the ad titled “Partner” as part of his broader effort to define Cornyn as a weak Republican and to draw contrasts with other candidates in the GOP Senate primary. The video pairs the AI imagery with music and imagery that suggests a partnership out of step with conservative values, implying that Cornyn’s willingness to work across the aisle weakens his Republican bona fides.
The ad appears on social media platforms rather than traditional television and it includes a small disclaimer noting that parts of the video were generated using artificial intelligence. A move supporters say aims to satisfy transparency concerns even though Texas law does not require such disclosure outside of defined electioneering periods.
NEW AD: John Cornyn has been dancing the night way with liberal lunatics like Jasmine Crockett and selling us out every step of the way.
— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) January 16, 2026
That’s why he called Crockett his “dance partner” and she said Cornyn was her “best partner” in the Senate. pic.twitter.com/b2LeuBfRYX
The Candidates Involved
- Jasmine Crockett, a Democratic congresswoman from Texas’ 30th District, which has been redefined by the Texas Legislature, is running in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Cornyn. She has toured parts of the state campaigning on issues such as opioid crisis intervention, hunger, and broader economic concerns. She is currently running behind her Democratic challenger, James Talarico.
- John Cornyn is the incumbent Republican U.S. Senator seeking re-election in 2026. Polling shows him falling behind his rival, Ken Paxton, and may even come in third, behind Wesley Hunt.
Reactions From Campaigns
Crockett’s campaign has pushed back against Paxton’s framing, with spokespeople noting that the focus on bipartisanship is not a substantive attack on her record but an attempt to weaponize generative media against her. Supporters say Crockett’s actual work on issues like the opioid crisis and food insecurity demonstrates cross-party cooperation in service of Texans, not political theater.
Cornyn’s team has so far declined to directly comment on the ad, according to reporting, leaving a vacuum that has allowed digital discourse to flourish largely unchecked on social platforms.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The use of AI to depict real political figures doing things they never actually did raises significant legal and ethical questions. Texas law includes provisions that make it a misdemeanor to distribute a “deep fake” video within 30 days of an election with intent to influence the outcome, although enforcement of such statutes is untested and subject to interpretation.
Experts and advocates warn that generative content in political advertising could mislead voters, erode trust in legitimate campaigning, and outpace current regulatory frameworks. There is no federal requirement that ads containing AI-generated content carry clear labels, and states vary widely in how — or whether — they regulate synthetic media in political contexts.
Public and Political Response
The ad has quickly become a topic of discussion on digital forums and social media. Commenters have described it variously as humorous, cringe-inducing, or disturbing, with discussions often centering on broader fears that AI will drown political discourse in manipulated content. Some observers on platforms like Reddit note that the synthetic depictions could backfire on Paxton, especially among voters who see bipartisanship as a virtue.
Republican and Democratic voters alike have expressed frustration online that artificial intelligence is being used to blur the line between satire and misinformation in an already polarized political environment.
Context Within the 2026 Senate Race
The Texas Senate contest in 2026 remains highly competitive. Polls show Cornyn’s support varying across matchups against Democratic contenders, including Crockett and others, with some surveys indicating narrow leads or possible runoff scenarios in the Republican primary.
This ad is one of the earliest signals that the 2026 cycle will ably test the boundaries of campaign messaging technology, and it arrives amidst broader debates about whether legislative or judicial action is needed to govern the use of AI in political communications.
Why This Matters
The “Washington Waltz” style ad exemplifies how rapidly advancing technology is reshaping political campaigns — for better or worse. It forces voters and lawmakers to ask whether current laws are equipped to preserve truthful discourse, or whether new guardrails are required to prevent deceptive content from influencing elections.
For constitutional conservatives and civic activists alike, this incident highlights a deeper tension between free speech protections and the need for electoral integrity. The stakes extend beyond the characters in this particular Senate race; they speak to a future in which digital manipulation can construct realities that never occurred.
As the 2026 primaries approach, voters in Texas — and observers nationwide — will be watching not just who wins or loses, but how campaigns wield revolutionary tools of persuasion in a hypercharged political era.
Dallas, TX — A seismic shift in the 2026 Texas Democratic U.S. Senate primary has unsettled party operatives and raised questions about the viability of one of the party’s most visible progressive figures. According to a new Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media survey released January 15, 2026, State Rep. James Talarico holds a nine-point lead over U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett among likely Democratic primary voters. Talarico’s 47 percent support to Crockett’s 38 percent, with 15 percent undecided, signals a remarkable reversal from a December survey in which Crockett held a clear lead.
The poll results make the March 3 primary a focal point of Texas politics, with implications that stretch from the Democratic Party’s ideological battles to the broader contest for control of the U.S. Senate. At a time when Democrats hoped to topple the Republican stranglehold on statewide offices in Texas, internal party dynamics — and voter preferences — are now in sharper focus.
Shift in Voter Preferences
The Emerson poll, conducted January 10–12 with a sample of 413 likely Democratic primary voters, shows Talarico with broad support across key demographic groups. He leads among Hispanic voters at approximately 59 percent and among white voters at roughly 57 percent. Crockett, while commanding strong loyalty among Black Democratic voters — roughly 80 percent back her — struggles to match Talarico’s cross-sectional appeal.
In the same survey, gender splits emerged: men favored Talarico by a wide margin, while women’s support was nearly evenly divided between the two candidates. With a sizable share of Democratic voters still undecided, the primary remains fluid — but Talarico’s edge appears solid at the moment.
Who Are the Candidates?
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Dallas) has been a dynamic presence within Texas Democratic politics since her election to Congress in 2022. Known for her unapologetic progressive rhetoric and criticism of Republican leadership, Crockett quickly became a national figure among the party’s left wing. Early polling suggested she was the Democratic favorite to win the Senate nomination, tapping into energy among urban progressives.
State Rep. James Talarico (D-Austin) has taken a different approach. A former educator with a reputation for grassroots organizing and a comparatively moderate tone on certain issues, Talarico has worked to broaden his appeal beyond traditional Democratic strongholds. His Senate campaign, which has reportedly raised more than $13 million since its launch, emphasizes his capacity to unite diverse factions of the Democratic electorate.
Their differing campaign strategies are reflected in the latest figures: Crockett’s base remains deeply loyal, particularly among Black voters, while Talarico’s performance with Hispanic and white voters has propelled him ahead in the overall count.
Republican Landscape and Broader Stakes
While Democratic eyes are fixed on their own intraparty struggle, the Republican side of the Texas Senate race also reflects volatility. The Emerson poll indicates that Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton are locked in a tight GOP primary contest that could head to a runoff if neither candidate reaches a majority. Both Republicans remain below 30 percent support among likely GOP voters, underscoring ongoing divisions within the party.
Looking ahead to the general election, early hypothetical matchups show Republicans maintaining an advantage in this deeply red state, with Cornyn and Paxton both holding leads in polls against the Democratic contenders. Yet with the Democrats’ primary unsettled and a significant share of voters undecided, the path to victory for either party remains complex and contingent on turnout patterns in November.
Historical Context and Trends
Texas has not elected a Democratic U.S. Senator since 1988, a generational drought that has shaped the party’s approach to statewide races. In recent cycles, Democratic candidates have occasionally narrowed margins but fallen short of victory. Crockett’s initial strong polling reflected belief among some observers that her charisma and progressive credentials might overcome historical headwinds. However, the rapid swing in favor of Talarico suggests voters may prioritize electability in a conservative state.
The shifting polls also highlight internal debates within the Texas Democratic coalition over identity, strategy, and how to appeal to a statewide electorate that still tilts Republican. How the candidates navigate these conversations — and how they position themselves against Republican opponents — will likely shape the party’s fortunes in 2026 and beyond.
Conclusion: A Party at a Crossroads
From my vantage point, as someone who approaches politics through a constitutional conservative lens, the Democratic primary in Texas illustrates deeper tensions within that party: a clash between ideological purity and pragmatic calculation. Crockett’s progressive firebrand brand once made her the favorite among activists, but her apparent inability to expand beyond her base underscores the challenges of winning statewide in a state where conservative voters still outnumber Democrats. Talarico’s rise suggests that Democratic voters themselves may be responding to the cold arithmetic of electability rather than purely ideological factors.
Regardless of who wins the Democratic nomination, the general election will be an uphill battle for the party in Texas. Republicans remain firmly positioned, and the competitive primary may deplete resources that could have been directed toward a unified campaign against GOP nominees. If Democrats hope to flip a Senate seat for the first time in nearly four decades, they will need cohesion, strong turnout, and a candidate capable of bridging ideological divides.
For now, the story is not just Crockett versus Talarico — it is a reflection of Texas’s evolving political identity, where margins are tight, and electoral fortunes can turn on a single poll. Only voters themselves, and the campaigns that engage them between now and March, will determine which narrative prevails.
Sources:
Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media survey, January 15, 2026.
Texas Tribune reporting on Emerson poll results.
Newsmax analysis of Texas primary polling trends.
Black Enterprise – Crockett is behind in polls.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login