Temple — The City Council on Oct. 16 approved a voluntary annexation ordinance to add about 51.6 acres (the "Lehi tract") along Tower Road into the city limits.

City staff said the annexation is voluntary, contiguous to existing city limits, and that necessary notices were sent to affected agencies including Temple Independent School District, Little River Academy and Bell County. "Chapter 43 governs voluntary annexation," a city staff member said and confirmed a municipal-services agreement was circulated to relevant departments; staff reported no issues in the city’s internal review.

Staff said the tract is sometimes referred to as the Lehi tract and that TDC (acting as agent) is in the process of purchasing the property. The parcel is located just south along Tower Road and adjoins a city-owned 10-acre property called Blackland Prairie Park. Council approved the annexation 4–0.

No members of the public spoke in opposition at the hearing. Staff recommended approval and will proceed with the annexation steps required under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 43.