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A lithium battery storage facility could soon call DeSoto its home, but the proposed location has many residents in an uproar.

The Emerald Hill Energy Storage project is designed to store 250 megawatts of energy and is proposed to be located in DeSoto.

If approved, the proposal will place a lithium-ion energy storage facility near DeSoto High School and neighboring residential areas.

“This project would be located at southwest Westmoreland Rd. and Eagle Drive, it would be across the street from the high school,” said Alex Rohr, Manager of Community Affairs for Vesper Energy.  

“The reason that we’re in that area is because of that very large transmission line running through the area. We want to be close to that and that is generally what’s best to support grid reliability.”

Rohr spoke with The DeSoto Tribune and further explained that they also look at where there is available land, market demand, and proximity to major electrical infrastructure.

Safety Concerns:

As discussions surrounding the facility’s location continue, safety remains a top priority and concern for residents in the area and the city.

Lithium-ion Batteries can experience a Thermal Runaway Event, a phenomenon in which the lithium-ion cell enters an uncontrollable, self-heating state, according to the Underwriters Laboratories Research Institute (UL Research Institute).

It refers to a self-sustaining, exothermic reaction within a battery that leads to a rapid increase in temperature and pressure which can result in a battery emitting toxic gasses, catching fire, or even exploding, according to Pyrophobic.com.

Storage for the lithium-ion batteries will be housed in special containers that must meet strict safety regulations, tests, and standards, including UL9540, UL 9540A, and NFPA 855.

The facility will also consist of a buffer, tree coverage, and a brick façade.

“We are planning a 50-foot-deep vegetative buffer along the northern boundary as well as a 25-foot-deep vegetative buffer on the eastern boundary,” said Rohr.

“Both would maintain and enhance the existing tree coverage along each border. There would also be a 6-8 foot brick façade around the battery storage containers,” explained Rohr.

Rohr went on to explain that the property would also maintain the existing walking path through the area and construct a sidewalk on the eastern boundary to help meet DeSoto’s goals of a more walkable community.

Community Outreach and Opposition:

The Irving-based company Vesper Energy has not yet submitted an application to the city but has been conducting community outreach to gauge public interest.

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As the Fourth of July quickly approaches, The DeSoto Tribune would like to wish everyone in the city of DeSoto and the Best Southwest area a happy and safe Independence Day.

Families across the state are gearing up to celebrate Independence Day with festive celebrations and delicious food.

Barbecues, parades, fireworks, and family gatherings mark the day, commemorating the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

In cities and towns from coast to coast, residents adorned in red, white, and blue will gather for a day filled with traditional and heartfelt celebrations.

In the spirit of unity and community, the cities of DeSoto and Lancaster are hosting a grand Fourth of July Fireworks Show at Grimes Park.

This free event, running from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., promises to be a highlight of the summer.

Gates will open at 5:00 p.m., allowing families to secure their spots early for an evening of patriotic celebration and entertainment.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of live performances, headlined by The Bar-Kays featuring Larry Dodson.

Additional acts include the Natural Change Band, Dominique Hammons, and the GoGo Band, ensuring a vibrant and energetic atmosphere throughout the evening.

Children’s activities, games for all ages, and a variety of food vendors will add to the festive environment, providing something for everyone to enjoy.

As the day transitions into night, the excitement will build for the main event: a spectacular fireworks display set to begin at dusk.

The DeSoto and Lancaster communities, along with visitors from surrounding areas, are invited to join in the celebration at Grimes Park.

This event is an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history and the values of freedom, democracy, and unity while enjoying the company of neighbors, friends, and family.

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate the American spirit and the enduring principles upon which the nation was founded.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, July 4
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (Gates open at 5:00 p.m.)
• Location: Grimes Park, DeSoto, TX
• Performers: The Bar-Kays featuring Larry Dodson, Natural Change Band, Dominique Hammons, GoGo Band
• Activities: Children’s activities, games for all ages, food vendors
• Fireworks: Display begins at dusk

The post Happy 4th of July from The DeSoto Tribune appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

The Mid-South West Showdown is set to light up Eagle Stadium as the DeSoto Eagles prepare to clash with the Creekside Seminoles out of Fairburn, Georgia in a state-against-state football game.

DeSoto Head Coach Claude Mathis sat down with The DeSoto Tribune and spoke about the upcoming and highly anticipated matchup with Creekside.

The Eagles have won back-to-back state championships and reign supreme in Texas football, having blown out Humble Summer Creek 74-14 to take home their second consecutive state title.

The event, scheduled for Saturday, August 31, promises an evening of thrilling competitive sportsmanship and community spirit.

As the teams gear up for the 5 p.m. kickoff, fans from both sides are buzzing with anticipation.

The Eagles, known for their formidable defense and high-powered offense are determined to guard the line and maintain their home turf advantage.

Meanwhile, the Seminoles are ready to bring their A-game, having only lost to California powerhouse Mater-Die, challenging the Eagles with their dynamic offense.

Kick-off is set for Saturday, August 31 at 5 p.m. at Eagle Stadium.

The post DeSoto Host Creekside Seminoles in Mid-South West Showdown appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

On Monday, July 1st, Majed Al-Ghafry officially began his role as the new City Manager of DeSoto.

 The city announced the appointment with enthusiasm as anticipation and optimism surrounded Al-Ghafry’s arrival.

The announcement was made by the city via social media, and expressed a warm welcome to Al-Ghafry, wishing him success as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.

“Team DeSoto would like to extend a warm welcome to Majed and wish him all the best as we work with him to move DeSoto forward!” the post read.

Al-Ghafry brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously held significant roles in municipal management.

His background and expertise are expected to be instrumental in addressing the city’s challenges and leveraging opportunities for progress.

The new City Manager’s arrival comes at a pivotal time for DeSoto, a city that continues to grow and evolve.

Al-Ghafry’s leadership is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to the city’s administration.

Residents shared their thoughts on the new city manager in social media posts on the city’s Facebook page.

“The citizens of Desoto welcomes you City Manager Majed. Please know that you have the full support of the community as we are looking forward to your arrival,” said Mary Morris Bonaparte.

Another user named Sumbel Zeb wrote “Wonderful addition to the City of DeSoto! Congratulations!”

As Al-Ghafry steps into his new role, the DeSoto community extends its best wishes for his success and looks forward to a productive partnership aimed at enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

The post DeSoto Welcomes New City Manager Majed Al-Ghafry appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.

Shavondra Smith, now 36 years old, spoke at the emergency press conference called by the Black Dallas Clergy and provided details of her stint at the center.

From 13 to 17 years old, Smith was in and out of the justice center and recalled her experience at the facility.

“We were locked in our cells multiple times. Five of us, I know, tried to commit suicide at the same time because we were put on lock down,” said Smith.

She along with many others and the Dallas Black Clergy are calling for changes to be made at the detention center after damming reports have shed light on unsavory conditions.  

The post Shavondra Smith Details Her Experience at HWJDC appeared first on DeSoto Tribune.