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Latest Local News articles from Inforney News
Crime Stoppers Most Wanted- Jose Raudel Muro-Ortega
Terrell Police Department Seeks Public's Help in Locating Fugitive
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Housing Vouchers and Crime- What does the research tell us?
This is Part Two of our InForney Investigates series on Housing Vouchers. In Part One we examined how voucher programs work, which agencies are involved, and who is eligible to receive assistance. Today we look at the impact vouchers have on local crime levels.
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Housing Vouchers in Kaufman County- The Basics
Kaufman County, TX – March 22, 2025 — Residents of Kaufman County, including those in the city of Forney, have access to affordable housing through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. This federal initiative assists low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities in securing safe and decent housing within the private rental market.Eligibility CriteriaTo qualify for the HCV program, applicants must meet specific requirements:Income Limits: Generally, a household’s income must not exceed 50% of the median income for the area. Priority is often given to families with incomes below 30% of the median. For precise income limits based on family size and local median income, applicants should consult the local Public Housing Agency (PHA).Citizenship Status: The program is available to U.S. citizens and certain categories of non-citizens with eligible immigration status.Family Composition: Eligibility extends to families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Specific definitions of “family” may vary by PHA.Program OptionsSeveral variations of the HCV program cater to diverse housing needs:Tenant-Based Vouchers: These allow participants to choose any housing that meets program requirements. The voucher is tied to the tenant, permitting them to move without losing assistance.Project-Based Vouchers: Attached to specific housing units, these vouchers require tenants to reside in particular developments to receive assistance.Homeownership Vouchers: Some PHAs offer vouchers that assist first-time homebuyers with their monthly mortgage expenses.Coverage in ForneyForney residents seeking housing assistance can benefit from the HCV program. While Forney does not have its own housing authority, residents can apply through neighboring agencies:Terrell Housing Authority: Manages 458 Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and serves areas including Forney. Currently they are operating off of a wait list. For more information, please visit the Terrell Housing Authority website: https://www.terrellhousing.org/ or call 972-563-2651.Dallas Housing Authority (DHA): Assists approximately 16,000 households through the HCV program and accepts applications via an open lottery system. The lottery opens periodically, and information regarding open enrollment can be found at the Dallas Housing Authority Website : https://www.dhantx.com/.Application ProcessInterested individuals can apply for the HCV program through the respective housing authority’s application portal. Required documentation includes proof of income, identification, and social security cards. It’s advisable to contact the housing authority directly to confirm application procedures and current availability.Landlord ParticipationLandlords in Kaufman County must be willing to accept Section 8 vouchers. Information on how to participate in the program can be found on the HUD website or by contacting the housing authorities directly.Fair Housing RightsThe Section 8 program adheres to fair housing rights, ensuring equal access to housing regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.For more detailed information about the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, please visit the official U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website at: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv/aboutThis expansion of the Section 8 program in Kaufman County aims to provide more residents with access to affordable housing, enhancing community stability and individual well-being.HOA's May Not Ban VouchersTexas law, specifically Section 202.006 of the Texas Property Code, prohibits homeowners' associations (HOAs) from adopting or enforcing restrictions that prevent property owners from leasing their homes to individuals with Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers or other government-funded rental assistance.This legislation ensures that landlords can participate in programs designed to provide affordable housing without facing discriminatory restrictions from their HOAs. By preventing such bans, Texas law aims to promote fair housing practices and expand housing opportunities for low-income families and individuals with disabilities, aligning with broader state and federal efforts to combat housing discrimination.Â
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Navy Veteran Kevin Morrow Needs a Life-Saving Kidney Transplant – You Can Help
For Kevin Morrow, service has always been a way of life. At just 18 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he dedicated three years as an engineman aboard the USS Peleliu. He worked on everything from diesel engines to HVAC systems, supporting critical missions during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.
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Forney Animal Shelter Pet of the Week- Meet Fred!
Need a new furry friend in your life? Meet Fred! Fred is a nine month old hound mix. Fred is currently around 45lbs and should top out at around 50-55lbs fully grown. When interviewed by InForney Fred stated that he loves to play with other dogs and is good around kids, but he needs reminders not to jump. Fred stated that he loves to sun bathe and play fetch. Forney Animal Shelter insiders confirm that Fred is a very smart dog and loves to please people. They describe Fred as goofy and very food motivated. Fred will do anything for a snack.Â
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Trinity Valley Community College Court Reporting Students Experience Real Courtroom Atmosphere
Kaufman County, TX - On March 11, Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) Court Reporting students and instructors had the unique opportunity to experience what it’s like to be a court reporter inside the courthouse. They also had the chance to meet and visit with Judge Nancy Perryman of Henderson County Court at Law No. 2, who emphasized the ongoing demand for court reporters in the field.
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Forney Hospital Project Set to Transform City Landscape
Forney, TX - The Texas Health Forney Hospital, a monumental development in the heart of Forney, is set to break ground on April 28, 2025, with an anticipated completion date in the summer of 2027. This $171 million project marks a significant milestone for the city, promising to enhance local healthcare services and stimulate economic growth.
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TVCC Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Honored with Texas Top Chapter Award
Athens, TX - Trinity Valley Community College’s Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter earned top honors at the Texas Regional Convention, held March 6-8 in Houston, TX. The chapter received multiple awards, including the esteemed Texas Top Chapter Award—the highest recognition given. This award also includes a full scholarship to the Texas PTK Honors Institute in July.
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Free Life Church on FM 548 Expands with $4 Million, $29k SqFt Addition
Forney, TX - March 12, 2023 - Free Life Church, located at 14800 Farm to Market Road 548, is set to undergo a significant expansion with a new addition that will encompass 29,148 square feet. The project, which carries an estimated cost of $4 million, aims to enhance the church's facilities and accommodate its growing congregation.
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HCPAC Recognizes Volunteers at Alty Awards
Henderson County TX - On March 9, Henderson County Performing Arts Center celebrated and recognized multiple volunteers for their impact on an incredible 2024 season.
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Kaufman County Leaders Push for Juvenile Detention Center Amid Rising Youth Crime
Kaufman, Texas – March 6, 2025 – With rising concerns about juvenile crime spilling over from neighboring urban centers, Kaufman County leaders are urging residents to support a proposed $40 million Juvenile Detention Center in an upcoming referendum on May 3.
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March 5, 2025: Forney High School Cancels Classes Due to Power Outage
Forney, TX - Breaking: In an unexpected turn of events, Forney High School has announced the cancellation of classes for students in grades 9-12 today due to a power outage affecting the campus. The decision comes after communication from Oncor regarding widespread outages across the metroplex.
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