Midlothian moves forward with Mockingbird Lane property acquisitions; three condemnation authorizations approved

Midlothian city council authorized final offers and authorized staff to initiate condemnation proceedings for multiple parcels needed for the Mockingbird Lane reconstruction project during its Feb. 25 meeting.

The council approved three separate resolutions tied to the same roadway project, allowing staff to make final offers and, if necessary, begin eminent-domain proceedings so the city can secure right of way and drainage easements for the widening and realignment works.

Clyde (city staff) told the council the Mockingbird Lane reconstruction has been under design for about 12 months and that the city has negotiated with property owners since summer and fall 2024. The three properties discussed were described in staff remarks as including roughly 0.5 acres at 1191 North Walnut Grove Road (parcel wraps around Walnut Grove and includes a proposed waterline easement), about 0.31 acres at 2050 Mockingbird Lane, and roughly 0.287 acres at 3440 Mockingbird Lane. Staff said offers made during negotiations have been above the appraised values in these cases.

Property owners spoke at the meeting. At 3440 Mockingbird Lane, property owners Joe and Gail Betzel disputed the city’s offers and provided local comparable land sales that they said showed higher per‑acre values; they said negotiations had included multiple offers and that they intended to contest valuation if condemnation were initiated. Clyde confirmed the city’s highest offer on that parcel was about $30,000 while the appraised value was shown in staff materials as $13,168.

Council votes: the resolution for the property at 1191 North Walnut Grove Road passed 4-1; the 2050 Mockingbird Lane resolution passed 5-0; the 3440 Mockingbird Lane resolution passed 4-1. Councilman Weaver moved the first and third resolutions and Councilwoman Hammonds seconded some of the motions; Councilman Sheffield seconded at least one motion to proceed. Votes put the city on a path to either finalize negotiated settlements or proceed to special-commissioner hearings to determine just compensation.

Council members said the eminent‑domain steps are intended to advance a long‑planned road project while preserving room for continued negotiation. The council approved the resolutions authorizing final offers and delegation of authority to the city attorney and city manager to initiate condemnation if necessary.