The Grand Prairie City Council meeting on September 16, 2025, focused on serious concerns regarding the Housing Finance Committee's (HFC) recent property purchases, which have raised questions about public trust and financial integrity.
Council members expressed alarm over the HFC's decision to purchase two properties for Rodney DeBond, who currently owes the city approximately $100,000 in unpaid water bills. The agreement stipulates that the city will receive only 35% of the property taxes, despite a recent law that could have entitled the city to 100%. This decision was made hastily, with the HFC closing the deal before the legislative session concluded, potentially denying taxpayers the full benefits they were entitled to under the law.
Greg Geissner, the chair of the HFC and a former city council member, was highlighted as a key figure in this controversy. His prior knowledge of DeBond's outstanding debt and his familial ties within the committee raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of the committee's decisions. The council emphasized that public trust is fragile and can be easily damaged by perceived mismanagement.
To address these issues, the council called for a thorough review of all HFC documents, meeting minutes, and communications. They insisted that findings be presented transparently to both the council and the public. Additionally, every HFC member will be required to sign a cover letter affirming the completeness and validity of all submitted materials, ensuring that the public receives full and unfiltered information.
The council's actions reflect a commitment to restoring public confidence and ensuring accountability in the management of city finances.