New Hutchins street honors former chief

HUTCHINS – Hutchins resident Joe Ed Wallace, 73, died earlier this year, but the City of Hutchins has made sure he will not be forgotten.  

Originally from Hillsboro, Wallace moved to Hutchins in the 70s to accept a position of police officer. 

He later became the city’s police chief.  

“With a passion for volunteer work,” city staff said, “Joe Ed led the reserve police force in Hutchins. He worked with young men to introduce them to law enforcement.” 

Over the next 40 years, he held several other positions with the City of Hutchins, which included city council, mayor, 911 dispatcher, public works supervisor and financial officer. The latter he retired from in 2010.

Because of his years of service, the Hutchins City Council unanimously adopted a resolution on July 20, to officially name a new street located in the 1500 block of West Wintergreen, “Joe Ed Wallace Way.”  

On Oct. 3, the City of Hutchins held the official street dedication ceremony in honor of Wallace. 

“The City of Hutchins is excited to honor former Mayor Joe Ed Wallace,” said current Hutchins Mayor Mario Vasquez.

“This street name and dedication ceremony is a token of our appreciation for his dedication to the community for more than 30 years. His legacy will remain in Hutchins right where it belongs.”