Lockhart City Council approves eminent domain for utility easements on five properties

The Lockhart City Council took significant steps towards advancing the Lockhart Square utility project during its meeting on May 20, 2025, by authorizing two crucial resolutions aimed at acquiring utility easements necessary for relocating existing electric infrastructure.

Resolution 2025-17 was passed, confirming the public necessity for acquiring permanent utility easements across eight separate properties. The council authorized the city manager to negotiate offers for these easements, with a budget not exceeding $260,000 allocated for their acquisition. This resolution is pivotal for ensuring the timely progress of the utility project.

In a related move, the council also approved Resolution 2025-18, which allows for the use of eminent domain to secure five additional utility easements located on properties throughout Lockhart. This resolution is essential for expediting the project, as it enables the city to begin the condemnation process if negotiations with property owners do not yield agreements. City Attorney Brad Bullock emphasized that both resolutions are designed to facilitate a smoother and more efficient acquisition process, allowing the city to negotiate settlements while also preparing for potential eminent domain actions.

The council's decisions are expected to accelerate the relocation of electric poles, with work potentially starting on properties where agreements have already been reached. However, the timeline for properties requiring condemnation remains uncertain, hinging on the legal process involved.

With these resolutions in place, Lockhart is poised to move forward with its utility project, addressing infrastructure needs while balancing the rights of property owners. The council's actions reflect a commitment to enhancing the city's utility services and infrastructure development.