De Leon Debate

Nicole Hickl

Updated: 2/09 2:37 pm

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De Leon Debate

We have the latest on a street fight that continues to divide a neighborhood. The issue is over a piece of land near St. Joseph high school. If city leaders approve it, the school plans to shut down a part of a busy street and that's causing concerns from residents, and even some council members.

The part of De Leon Street right on the side of St. Joseph high school and at the corner of Red River Street that is causing a lot of controversy. Even though majority of council supports the contract with the high school, two council members are still taking a stand for residents in the neighborhood. There are mixed emotions about the possible closure of this part of De Leon Street but five city council members are ready to give the green light on a deal with St. Joseph high school, that would swap a piece of property with the city giving them part of De Leon Street. School officials plan to close De Leon to expand into this empty lot across the way.

Council member Emett Alvarez has voted against this to speak up for his district about traffic and speeding and even though the neighborhood isn't her district council member Josephine Soliz stands right with Alvarez. Soliz and Alvarez are the minority against the deal but Alvarez is still sticking up for the neighborhood. Alvarez and Soliz said that majority of council is already in favor of the plan and their vote will not affect the outcome but they are still pushing for the city and St. Joseph staff members to address the neighbors’ concerns about traffic flow. Tuesday night council approved this deal, but in order for it to become official, they will have to approve it again at the February 19th meeting.