SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 171
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize the residents of Rockwall County who are gathering in
Austin on February 28, 2011, to celebrate Rockwall County Day at
the State Capitol; and
WHEREAS, Situated on the gently rolling Blackland Prairie
of North Texas, the region was originally inhabited by the Caddo
and Cherokee; the first European resident, John O. Heath, settled
on the East Fork of the Trinity River in 1846; Rockwall County was
established in 1873, taking its name from an underground rock
formation discovered by farmers who were digging a well; and
WHEREAS, An important center for cotton production for
many years, Rockwall County today boasts a population of nearly
70,000 people who enjoy being in close proximity to the
Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex while savoring the relaxed and
comfortable way of life in the county's many thriving
communities; and
WHEREAS, The City of Rowlett, on the shore of Lake Ray
Hubbard, is emerging as an important regional center and is the
site of the intersection of the eastern extension of the
President George Bush Turnpike and the new Blue Line Extension of
DART Commuter Rail; another prosperous lakeside city is Heath,
which has recently revised and adopted a comprehensive plan that
reaffirms its commitment to service, orderly growth,
transportation, development, and the preservation of the
time-honored values cherished by its residents; and
WHEREAS, In 2008, voters in the City of Fate passed a home
rule charter by an overwhelming majority; this development
promises to make that community an even more important component
of the county's economy; positive change and preparation for the
years ahead are also taking place in the City of
McLendon-Chisholm; this is the newest city in Rockwall County but
was formed from two of the oldest area communities, McLendon and
Chisholm, both of which date back to the mid-1800s; and
WHEREAS, Rockwall, which was designated as a Main Street
City in 2009, is a fast-growing suburban community that continues
its dedication to preserving its heritage and its pleasant,
family-friendly atmosphere; as part of that effort, the city's
Historic Preservation Advisory Board has worked with residents
and civic leaders to develop a preservation plan for the Old Town
Rockwall Historic District, which will help the district to
remain the vibrant heart of the city; and
WHEREAS, Residents of Royse City are also making it a
priority to carry forth the small-town way of life that has long
characterized their community; designated as a Main Street City
in 2008, the town has established a Heritage Committee and
ordinance and design guidelines in order to revitalize the
historical district, and it also benefits from a strong chamber
of commerce that supports local businesses; and
WHEREAS, Throughout Rockwall County, citizens have done an
outstanding job of maintaining long-cherished hometown values
and an inspiring sense of community even as they look forward to
the opportunities of the future, and their ongoing success in
these endeavors has made the county an exceptional place to live,
work, and raise a family; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd
Legislature, hereby recognize February 28, 2011, as Rockwall
County Day at the State Capitol and extend to all of the county's
residents who are here today best wishes for a memorable and
enjoyable visit; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared as a
memento of this special occasion.
Deuell
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on February 7, 2011.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate