Decatur City Council considers Nature Creek Reserve annexation and development plans

In the heart of Decatur, Texas, the Planning and Zoning Commission convened on March 4, 2025, to discuss a significant annexation request that could reshape the community's landscape. The proposal, submitted by Libertas Decatur LP, also known as Nature Creek Reserve, seeks to annex approximately 25.3 acres of land located just off US Highway 81287. This voluntary annexation is the first of three applications aimed at developing the area into a residential neighborhood.

The meeting began with a staff report outlining the legal framework for the annexation, which is permissible under Texas Local Government Code. The property in question is contiguous with Decatur's city limits and does not create any enclaves, making it a straightforward addition to the city. However, the land is currently unserved by essential utilities, necessitating improvements as part of the development agreement.

Commissioners expressed their support for the annexation, emphasizing its alignment with Decatur's 2050 comprehensive plan, which promotes quality residential development and responsible growth patterns. The plan aims to expand the city's housing stock while preserving its rural character. Despite the positive feedback from the commission, there was a notable absence of public opposition, with no responses received from property owners regarding the annexation.

As the discussion progressed, the commission moved on to the second item on the agenda: a comprehensive plan amendment that would designate the newly annexed land for traditional neighborhood use, primarily for single-family homes. This amendment also received a recommendation for approval, despite one resident voicing concerns about traffic and the suitability of smaller lots in the area.

The final item addressed was a plan development rezoning request, which proposes a mix of lot sizes, including 5,000 and 6,000 square foot lots, along with recreational spaces such as a dog park and walking trails. This proposal, too, aligns with the city's long-term growth strategies and aims to cater to a diverse range of housing needs.

Throughout the meeting, commissioners highlighted the importance of these developments in meeting the demands of a growing community. With the commission's unanimous recommendations for approval, the proposals will now move to the city council for final consideration. As Decatur continues to evolve, these decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the city and its residents.