City Council holds public hearing on annexation

Both neighborhoods have distinct districts with utility systems which carry a property tax rate and separate infrastructure debt. The proposed annexation would replace the districts' property tax rates with the city's property tax rate. City staffers plan to offset existing district debts with a monthly utility debt service fee that varies according to each districts' separate debt totals.

Because the districts are outside the city limits, they receive police and fire protection from Travis County Emergency Services District No. 14. ESD No. 14's closest fire station is in Volente, about 5 miles from the neighborhoods, and Cedar Park's closest fire station is on Cypress Creek Road just north of the neighborhoods. Annexation supporters said they want to receive closer fire protection along with city services such as police protection and street maintenance.

During the summer a majority of subdivision residents signed petitions in support of annexation. On Oct. 9, City Council approved a schedule of annexation hearings and votes.

Cedar Park Mayor Matt Powell and Place 1 Councilman Stephen Thomas voiced support for annexation, especially after a cancelled annexation attempt in 2013.

"[The process is] going to be smoother than last time," Thomas said.

This story has been modified from its original version.