The project, being developed by a company called Holmes Builders, was initially being pursued by a different developer under the name Estuary Pointe. Cook and other residents have fought against the project since it was first planned.
Despite their efforts, the development was approved by the Flower Mound Town Council on Oct. 7. The project is set to be a private, gated subdivision of 26 custom built homes.
What they’re saying
Terry Holmes, president of Holmes Builders, said homes in the development won’t be the biggest in town, but they may be among the coolest.
“We want to be great neighbors,” he said.
Zooming out
Cook said she has lived about 1,500 feet from the entry point of this new development, which would include homes with lot-to-lot drainage, for more than 20 years. She said she’s never been approached by anyone about developing the property, even though she lives so close.
“This property is priceless,” she told the town council Oct. 7. “All property is priceless; it’s nature. But this particular property holds a special meaning to me.”
The big picture
Cook and others who spoke to council members at the Oct. 7 meeting said they worry the development could impact the environmental character of the land. The site sits near what is called the Cross Timbers Conservation Development District. According to previous Community Impact reporting, the district was first recognized in the town’s master plan in 1999. It is meant to preserve the country atmosphere and natural environment of the Cross Timbers ecological area in central Flower Mound.
“Just the thought of a bulldozer makes me upset,” Cook said.
The details
The project will impact the topographical slopes of the land, so the developer had to seek exceptions from the Town Council.
Some council members did have a few concerns, including drainage issues and the traffic that could get backed up in the only entry point for the development. Council member Adam Schiestel said he also had worries about the natural flow of wildlife in the area, such as deer.
But town staff said the development meets all requirements regarding traffic and drainage. On top of that, Holmes said there should still be enough space for wildlife to pass through the area.
“It is a conundrum,” council member Ann Martin said before the vote. “I do see both sides, and I appreciate the work that this council has put in to try to hear the residents and understand the perspective of the developer who appears to really care for the land and care for Flower Mound.”
