Many property owners build homes outside the city limits to avoid paying city property taxes.
But McBryde and Rhodes, each of whom owns approximately 2 acres near FM 3034 and Nugent, want city services such as fire protection, water and sewer, and a free library card. The council is expected to accept the petition and schedule a public hearing on the matter. In the meantime, city staff may consider whether neighboring land should also be annexed, McDaniel said. City administrators have warned Abilene can't support two ambulance companies and that uncontrolled competition would risk a return to subsidies. Under the ordinance, a newcomer must prove the need for another ambulance provider.