From Dallas Express · Dallas Express · · 1m 40s
Westlake ends 24-year police partnership with Keller
A Texas town votes to stop contracting police services, citing tensions over a proposed data center development.
In brief
A Texas town votes to stop contracting police services, citing tensions over a proposed data center development. Westlake's decision to end its police contract with Keller after 24 years reflects growing tensions between the neighboring communities over a proposed data center project near their shared border…
Westlake ends Keller police contract
The Town of Westlake voted unanimously to not renew its police services agreement with Keller, ending a partnership that began in 2002. The current contract remains active through September 30, 2028.
What Keller police currently provide
Keller officers handle patrol, dispatch, detention, animal services, and school resource officers for Westlake Academy. The agreement has been worth $1.26 million annually to Keller.
Westlake mayor thanks Keller
Mayor Kim Greaves expressed gratitude for two decades of service from Chief Brad Fortune and the Keller Police Department. Westlake said it will announce future public safety plans at a later date.
“We are extremely grateful for the service that Chief Brad Fortune and the entire Keller Police Department has provided to Westlake for more than two decades.”
Keller mayor expresses disappointment
Mayor Ross McMullin said he hoped the communities could move past disagreements over Westlake's proposed data center. He emphasized the existing agreement remains in place for two more years.
“I remained hopeful that despite recent disagreement between the communities over Westlake's proposed data center, that we could continue to find a way for our communities to move past the political rhetoric.”
Data center dispute strains ties
The Circle T Data Center project would occupy 87.9 acres near the Keller-Westlake border. It sits 1,200 yards from Westlake homes but only 506 feet from a Keller neighborhood, sparking legal challenges.
Keller pledges continued service
Police Chief Brad Fortune said officers will continue responding to calls, conducting investigations, and serving Westlake Academy through the contract's expiration. Keller will use the remaining time to plan for the transition.
“Westlake residents and visitors had no role in this decision, and they deserve nothing less than our very best through the final day.”
The big picture
Westlake's decision to end its police contract with Keller after 24 years reflects growing tensions between the neighboring communities over a proposed data center project near their shared border.
