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On Deck Foundation highlights youth programming; resident urges caution on Entergy transmission line
Summary
Brett Pierce of the On Deck Foundation described weekly community youth nights serving nearly 60 youth in Willis. During public comments resident Grant Darnell urged the city to oppose the proposed Entergy transmission line, citing safety, reliability and visual concerns.
At the Aug. 19 Willis City Council meeting Brett Pierce, founder of the On Deck Foundation, presented the nonprofit’s ongoing programming in Willis and asked for community support. Pierce said the Foundation provides character development, performance training and mentorship at no cost and that “as of July 2025, nearly 60 youth and their families participate in the Community Youth Nights held every Sunday at American Legion Post 618.” He listed needs including athletic equipment, food, curriculum development and scholarships for under-resourced families.
During the public-comment period resident Grant Darnell addressed Council to voice opposition to the proposed Entergy transmission line. Darnell told the Council he believes the project could have negative impacts on the community, raising concerns about safety, long-term reliability and the visual impact of the line, and he encouraged the city to consider alternatives. The minutes record no council response to Darnell’s comments.
Why it matters
Local nonprofit programming contributes to youth services and community engagement, and the transmission-line comment reflects local concern about a proposed infrastructure project that residents told the Council may have safety and visual impacts.
What’s next
No formal action was recorded in response to the public comments; Council proceeded with its agenda items. Community members seeking to support On Deck Foundation activities were encouraged to contact the organization directly.
