Lake Shores annexation takes next steps

The Lake Shores annexation continues to move forward following a public hearing that occurred Tuesday night to discuss the matter. Despite a number of residents present from the community who reside within Lake Shores, none had any words of opposition or support to bring to the council. The people were represented by Attorney Clayton Lengerich who was present to answer any questions that the Council members might have.

The annexation will set 24.025 acres aside to be divided into 65 lots. Councilman Matt Dyer previously explained that each house that will be constructed is expected to be valued at around $250,000, which will bring in over $16 million in total assessed value to Decatur. The project would also add an estimated 2.2 miles of roadway to the city.

The land being annexed is located south of Monroe Street extending north of CR 550 North and running east of Piqua Road.

The request meets the requirements set by the city ordinances, with 39% of the area adjacent to existing city property. It was again acknowledged that the amount of usage that the area requires for utilities would not place too much stress on the city.

While there were no statements for or against the annexation, which was expected considering the residents of Lake Shores made the original annexation push, there were some questions. This included inquiries about the type of houses, which will primarily be single family homes, and about the process of bringing county land into the city.

Following the quiet public hearing, the matter proceeded to the Council, who once again showed their full support for the annexation. The new resolution went through its first and second reading unanimously and then was tabled to the next meeting where the change will become finalized.