Heated debate over making English official language of Friendswood

(3/01/07 - FRIENDSWOOD, TX) (KTRK) -- A move to make English the official language of the city of Friendswood turned into a heated debate at city hall.

Residents voiced their opinions on the amendment before city officials decide whether to put it on the May ballot.

It all started with a single tree on Barcelona Drive. Out of it has grown a language debate.

On the table in Friendswood is a change to the city's charter. It is an amendment that would declare English the official language.

So how did the tree start all of this? Back in November, city workers showed up to trim the tree. The homeowner didn't want them to do it, but he couldn't tell them not to because the workers only spoke Spanish.

Since then, the city manager has changed the wording and job postings to specify English skills as a job requirement. Residents applauded that move, but the language controversy continues.

"These concerns which were once valid, have been addressed," said Mike Ruiz who is against the proposal.

"I don't think this issue is divisive unless you make it divisive," said Margaret Zimmer who is for the proposal. "I don't think it's mean spirited unless you allow it to become mean spirited."

"An official English ordinance could lead to the beginning of discrimination in Friendswood," said Frank Ortiz who is against the proposal. "Especially against Hispanics, who in my opinion may be the target of this divisive proposal."

Tonight's meeting was just one of several where residents have expressed their opinion. The council has since modified what would be changed from a wordy amendment to this single statement, "English is the official language of Friendswood."

What exactly does it mean?

"It doesn't mean someone couldn't request something in Spanish or talk to us in German," said Friendswood Mayor David Smith. "It doesn't mean anything."

The city council will vote on Monday whether to place this issue on the May 12th ballot.

LULAC has said it will sue the city if that happens, but since the amendment is vague at this point, the group is trying to decide on its next move.
(Copyright © 2007, KTRK-TV)

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