Voters in Prosper reelected an incumbent Council member, elected a successor for a beloved member, overwhelmingly approved three bond propositions, and signaled the approval of liquor sales within Town limits.
Council member Jeff Hodges won reelection to Place 5 by winning 66 percent of the vote over challenger Steve Thomas. In Place 3, Amy Bartley ran unopposed, filling the seat of long-time Council member and Mayor Pro Tem Curry Vogelsang, Jr.
Hodges was first elected in 2017 and currently serves as Vice President of the North Central Texas Emergency Communications District. He is a member of the Town Council Benefits Subcommittee and is also on the Town’s Hike and Bike Trail Steering Committee. He served as Vice President of the Special Purpose District Board of Directors which successfully guided the vote for the dedication of one-half cent sales tax for the Police and Fire Departments. Prior to his election to Council, he was a member of the Parks and Recreation Board.
Bartley is starting her first term on Council after having served on both the Prosper Planning & Zoning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Board. She is a volunteer with the Cornerstone Assistance Network and is a former member of the Prosper Education Foundation. A graduate of Howard Payne University, she is a transaction coordinator for her husband’s real estate business.
During the installation of the newly elected members, the Council paid special tribute to Vogelsang, among the Council’s longest serving members. The retiring Council member addressed his colleagues, supporters, friends, staff, and his family in an emotional departing speech.
The three bond propositions, each passing with slightly less than 80 percent approval, included: Proposition A which includes the construction of various public safety facilities; Proposition B which includes the development of parks, trails and recreational facilities; and Proposition C which includes the construction and improvement of Town streets, roads and accompanying amenities.
In addition, Propositions D and E dealt with the sale and consumption of liquor within Town limits. Proposition D allows the sale of all alcoholic beverages for off premise consumption, a decision that clears the way for liquor stores to open in Prosper.
Proposition E was designed to include all restaurants in Prosper which properly hold the appropriate permits to sell alcoholic beverages for their in-dining guests and customers.
The municipal election, generally held in May, was postponed, and held in conjunction with the federal and state elections in November because of the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.
