1. What is annexation? Annexation is the legal process of expanding the municipal borders to include unincorporated areas into the City of Anna. Annexation does not change the ownership of land. Property that is annexed into the city is still owned in the same manner as it was before annexation.
2. What areas is the city currently considering annexing? Click on this map link to see the 16 areas are being considered for annexation.
3. Why is the city considering annexation of these properties? Over the past ten years, Collin County grew from just under 500,000 to about 800,000 people. During that same period, the City of Anna grew by nearly 600%. Over the next 20 years, the County is expected to grow by another 400,000 people. Much of the future growth will occur in the north half of the county in and around cities like Anna. Most of the areas being considered for annexation are located along the major transportation corridors that pass through our city (U.S. 75, S.H. 121, and S.H. 5). As growth continues in this area, much of it (especially commercial growth) is likely to occur in areas adjacent to these major highways. By annexing these properties, the city will be in a better position to influence the type and quality of development as it occurs. This will have a positive effect on the orderly growth and development of the entire city. Other areas being considered for annexation include: 1) properties that are already receiving some city services and that are surrounded by developed properties already inside the city limits; and 2) areas that will assist in extending the city’s ultimate growth boundary.
4. Why can’t the city wait to annex these properties when development occurs? If the city waits until growth occurs, its ability to influence the type and quality of development will be significantly diminished.
5. Is the city annexing these properties in order to collect more tax revenue? No. Most of these properties have an agricultural property tax exemption. Any additional tax revenue the city might receive would be marginal when compared to the overall operating budget.
6. Will annexing these areas cause city property taxes go up? Annexation will not cause city property taxes to increase. Properties that are annexed into the city will be required to start paying city property taxes.
7. How does annexation affect private property rights? As a general rule, any legal use of a property that exists prior to annexation continues to be legal after annexation. Annexation does allow the city to influence future development of the property.
If you have additional questions, please contact the City Manager at (972) 924-3325 or e-mail psanders@annatexas.gov