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Ennis to buy 1104 East Decatur after discovery of sewer line; owners accept $40,000
Summary
City staff found an active 15-inch sewer line running through a privately owned parcel at 1104 East Decatur that lacked a reserved easement; the city negotiated an offer of $40,000 plus fees which the owner accepted and the commission approved the purchase.
The Ennis City Commission approved a resolution authorizing the city to purchase the parcel at 1104 East Decatur after staff identified a 15-inch underground sewer line running north–south across the lot and determined the 1986 vacation ordinance failed to reserve an easement for the active line.
City Manager Ortiz and staff described the parcel history, plat research and the discovery that the right-of-way had been vacated in 1986. Staff said the current owner attempted to develop the lot, discovered the sewer line during permitting, and the city made an offer of $40,000 plus applicable transaction fees, which the owner accepted. Ortiz told the commission the city will research additional parcels with the same issue and coordinate with the city attorney on next steps.
Commissioners discussed options including relocating the line (not feasible in the current situation) and making the current owner whole; the commission approved the purchase by voice vote.
Staff said the city will maintain the parcel after acquisition and will investigate other affected lots to determine whether formal easements or other measures are required.
