Carrollton council approves nonbinding MOU with AlpineX to explore District 35 development

Carrollton city council voted unanimously Aug. 11 to authorize the city manager to negotiate and execute a nonbinding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with AlpineX to explore master development of the city‑owned District 35 NTTA site at the southwest corner of President George Bush Turnpike and IH‑35E.

Mayor Babacan and staff described the MOU as an early, nonbinding step that allows the city and a prospective developer to conduct due diligence on ownership, funding, environmental impacts, and reclamation questions without committing public funds. As the mayor summarized during the discussion, “this is, effectively a nonbinding memorandum of understanding,” and the agreement would mainly authorize staff time and further study rather than construction or financial commitments.

The proposal drew several public comments urging caution. Susanna Zu Dooling, a Texas A&M AgriLife water specialist, asked that the city “consult the Corps of Engineers for risks to Carrollton” and urged scrutiny of tree removal and valley‑storage work in the Trinity Mills/TC Rice area. Former council member Adam Poulter read a prepared letter arguing AlpineX “has 0 proven experience as a master developer” and warned of fiscal risk and visual/traffic impacts if the project failed. Poulter urged council to delay action until Trinity Mills Station phases are complete.

Council members acknowledged the concerns but emphasized the MOU’s exploratory nature. Councilmember Jason Carpenter, who moved the item, said it does not commit the city to build or to provide funding. Multiple council members said the MOU would allow city staff and council committees to seek additional information before any binding decision. After discussion and public comment, council’s vote authorized staff to proceed with negotiating the nonbinding MOU.