TERRELL, Texas — A new Texas law, which went into effect on September 1st, has immediately halted Terrell’s “grandfathered” annexation efforts.
TERRELL, Texas — A new Texas law, which went into effect on September 1st, has immediately halted Terrell’s “grandfathered” annexation efforts.
SB 2038, a bill sponsored by State Representative Keith Bell (R-Forney), allows for those in a city’s Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) to petition for their removal. If they get enough signatures to be released or win an election after submitting a petition, they are to be released.
Terrell City Manager Mike Sims said in a memo to the Mayor and Council that he didn’t see how they could continue their annexation plans with this new legislation being in effect.
“After consulting with the City Attorney team regarding SB2038, this task is no longer legally feasible,” said Sims.
“SB2038 created a landowner petition process to opt out of a City's ETJ. Under HB347, the City may only annex areas which are in the City's ETJ. The ref 0 r e, proceeding under Resolutions 986 and 987 for properties eligible under SB2038 would simply result in the voluntary removal of the land from the ETJ prior to a grandfathered annexation.”
Terrell Mayor Rick Carmona issued a statement last week in response to the news, stating that the city had accomplished its annexation goals.
“From my point of view, our annexation goals have been accomplished,” said Carmona.
Moving forward, since annexation is off the table, the Mayor says he will focus on the city's day-to-day needs.
“My focus will be on improving streets, supporting the Police and Fire Departments, promoting downtown and attracting a hospital,” said Carmona. “Growth is a challenge for all of us and I am confident our City will manage it well with everyone working together.”
Newly elected Council Member Phil Robinson (D 5) said that with this legislation, citizens' voices are being heard.
“I am excited to share that there will be no more involuntary annexations! Your voice is being heard regarding the direction you would like to see from your city government.”
Terrell has had a long battle with citizens over annexation. Annexation attempts have occurred multiple times in the last decade, including in 2016 and 2019. These attempts have resulted in several lawsuits against the city.
On Facebook, Terrell residents responded to the news of annexation being halted.
Daniel Ecklund said that people responded because of the communication they received from the City of Terrell.
“If you lived in the areas that received letters from the city….you’ll know why people responded the way they did,” said Daniel Ecklund. “Terrell needs more changes in city personnel that’s in tune with all residents.”
With annexation halted the city will focus on economic development, repairing infrastructure, improving neighborhoods, and revitalizing downtown.