Temple approves voluntary annexation of roughly 849.5 acres north of Moores Mill

Temple City Council on Nov. 20 voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve first-reading action on a voluntary annexation request covering about 849.49 acres off Old Howard Road in the Morris Mill area.

City planning staff told the council the annexation was recommended by the development review committee and will be followed by future zoning and platting requests. Staff said notices were sent to affected entities, including the Troy Independent School District, and that municipal service agreements were offered and accepted in early November.

During the public hearing, resident Ken Lutz said nearby property owners are concerned that annexation could upset the rural, tranquil character of the area and suggested a phased annexation to avoid rapid change. "We have a little concern about the probability of an upset of the rural environment," Lutz said, urging the council to consider annexing only a portion now and reserving the rest for later.

Another resident, Lisa Pomerankee, who said her property backs up to the proposed annexation, expressed concerns about lighting, heavy truck traffic and nighttime disturbance should development intensify.

Staff and the mayor noted the land has been acquired by the Temple Economic Development Corporation for economic development purposes and emphasized that annexation itself does not guarantee immediate development or a change in residents’ water rates. The city indicated the annexation simply brings the land into city limits and that future development depends on economic clients and subsequent approvals.

Council Member Pilkington moved approval; Council Member Grant seconded. The motion passed 5-0. The item will proceed through the normal process for second reading and subsequent zoning and platting as appropriate.