TEXAS — Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission on Saturday voted unanimously to attempt to stop Fairfield Lake State Park from being developed via eminent domain.
The park was closed three months ago after it was purchased by Dallas-area developer Shawn Todd and his development firm, Todd Interests. Development plans call for a private golf course and a gated luxury community.
Now, all 5,000 acres will be condemned so the state can seize the land. There will almost certainly be a lengthy court battle.
The state park and surrounding land has been privately owned for years. Texas Parks and Wildlife was the tenant, an arrangement due to expire on Tuesday.
“Condemnation represents an extraordinary step and last resort for TPWD, and it is not one we undertake lightly,” said Commission Chairman Arch “Beaver” Aplin III. “However, TPWD’s mission calls for managing and conserving the natural resources of Texas for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Fairfield Lake State Park has welcomed millions of visitors over half a century, and we have a clear mandate to preserve this public resource that is beloved by so many.”
Three bill were introduced during the regular session of the Texas Legislature designed to save the park, but none of them advanced.