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Candidates call for stronger development agreements and clawbacks after Sapphire Bay experience
Summary
Speakers criticized past development deals and urged the city to retain control in agreements, add clawbacks and hire outside counsel to protect Rowlett’s long‑term interests.
Multiple candidates cited Sapphire Bay as an example of a public‑private partnership that went poorly and urged the city to strengthen future agreements. Carter Holston said the city should retain control in development agreements and include clawbacks so the city can act if a developer misses commitments. "When you enter into a development agreement, you should, as a city, retain some control on that," Holston said.
Several candidates recommended hiring stronger outside counsel when large developers negotiate agreements and using incentives only when the long‑term benefit to Rowlett is clear. Byron Fassett added that the city should evaluate each development for its "highest and best use for us in Rowlett" before offering incentives or concessions.
