Vandals Target Farmers Branch Mayor’s House
‘English Only’ Debate May Have Sparked ‘Viva Mexico’ Message
(CBS 11 News) Vandalism hit close to home this weekend for Farmers Branch Mayor Bob Phelps.

As CBS 11 first reported at 6 p.m. Saturday, the mayor discovered Friday morning vandals had spray painted “viva Mexico” on the side of his house.

By Saturday afternoon, the bright red letters had been blasted off with a high pressure wash, but some say the damage to community may be harder to fix.

“This is what happens when a community is filled with clash and conflict,” Carlos Quintanilla, with the Farmers Branch LULAC, said.

The controversy stems from a city proposal to make English the official language in the city.

In addition, the proposition --- introduced by Councilman Tim O'Hare in August --- would make it illegal in Farmers Branch for businesses to hire, and for apartment complexes to lease to, illegal immigrants. Those caught would face fines.

“It’s just a shame it had to happen,” the mayor said. “I hope they are caught, punished and prosecuted.”

Members of a Hispanic who rallied in protest against the city proposition also want the culprit caught.


Quintanilla said he doesn’t want these actions to create an even bigger rift in the community.


“If it happened to the house of the mayor, it could happen anywhere,” he said.

The city council will address the issue in executive session at the Nov. 13 meeting.


(CBS 11 News)
Nice.

I can hardly wait to see what the scene is at the City Council this afternoon.