The Tallahassee City Commission voted 3-2 (Matlow, Porter against) to move forward with a voluntary annexation request from property owner Jeffrey Phipps involving five parcels of rural land near the Lake Jackson area. The request would bring the 1,700 acres into the City of Tallahassee and place future land-use decisions for the parcels under city jurisdiction.
The vote introduced the ordinance and scheduled the first and only public hearing for Aug. 26, 2026.
The annexation request follows a previous effort involving Phipps’ property near Lake Jackson, where proposed comprehensive plan changes that would have allowed more intensive development generated significant public debate. Environmental advocates raised concerns about potential impacts near the Lake Jackson Aquatic Preserve, Carr Lake, and Mallard Pond.
City staff report that the parcels meet the geographic requirements for voluntary annexation under Florida law. Three parcels are within the City’s electric service territory, while two would continue receiving electric service from Talquin Electric Cooperative. Water and sewer services are either available or planned within the City’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan.
The properties are currently designated Rural on both the City and County future land use maps and zoning maps. No immediate rezoning would be required if the annexation is approved.
Supporters of annexation have noted that extending city services can help address infrastructure needs, while opponents have raised broader concerns about growth patterns, environmental protection, and expansion into rural areas.
The Leon County Commission is expected to review the annexation request before the City Commission’s public hearing.
Be the first to leave a comment on this article.