City approves ambitious 500 acre annexation plan

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant voluntary annexation plan encompassing approximately 500 acres. The proposal includes a diverse range of housing options, featuring lots as small as 40 feet and extending to one-and-a-half-acre estate lots. The development is projected to include a maximum of 790 multifamily units, alongside 100 estate lots.

Key components of the plan involve a donation of 16 acres designated for future school district use, which has been coordinated with the local Independent School District (ISD). Additionally, the proposal outlines the establishment of an 11.3-acre community center equipped with various amenities, as well as the acquisition of a new 15-acre regional park that will feature sports facilities, including soccer fields.

The plan also allocates around 30 acres for commercial development, sufficient for approximately 194,000 square feet of future retail space. A greenway connection is proposed to link the Evening Star development with the nearby Hillside development, facilitating the installation of a water line and recreational trail between the two neighborhoods. Furthermore, about 58 acres of floodplain will be preserved as green space for public enjoyment.

To support these developments, a capital public improvement district will be established to fund necessary public improvements, while a maintenance public improvement district will ensure that upkeep costs do not fall entirely on the city of Terrell. The proposal includes a tax increment reinvestment zone set at 50% for a duration of 40 years, with commercial and multifamily impact fees remaining in accordance with city ordinances. Residential impact fees are capped at $12,000 per permit, with credits available for public improvements exceeding basic requirements.

The project team, including members Jana, Chris Knapp, and DJ Brower, received commendations for their efforts in bringing the Evening Star agreement to fruition, which is now recommended for approval by city officials.