During a recent city council meeting in Forney, concerns were raised regarding a promotional flyer distributed to residents about a local referendum. A council member highlighted that the flyer, which featured images of the police chief and officers engaging with children, may violate Texas election code 255.003. This law prohibits political subdivisions, such as cities, from advocating for a referendum.

The council member emphasized that while cities are allowed to share factual information about a referendum, the content of the flyer appeared to be persuasive rather than informational. Specific phrases in the document suggested potential benefits of the referendum, such as freeing up funds for community improvements and property tax reductions, which the council member argued crossed the line into advocacy.

The council member urged city staff to exercise caution in their communications to ensure compliance with state law, warning that the Texas Ethics Commission could take an interest in the matter due to the perceived violations. The discussion underscores the importance of adhering to legal guidelines in municipal communications, particularly regarding electoral matters.