(November 3, 2009)

ARANSAS PASS--Aransas Pass city leaders have taken another step to expand the city. They'll soon vote to annex a three-an- half mile stretch near Business 35 in Aransas County.

Aransas Pass leaders have talked about this annexation for years. Over the last year, some residents have opposed it, but those plans may become a reality in two weeks.

City By The Sea, La Buena Vida and Bahia Bay residents may soon become annexed by the city of Aransas Pass. It's a three-and-half mile stretch just north of the city and will include 434 homes.

"Like most of the other retired people, we can't afford to live here anymore," said Walter Henshue, who has lived in City By the Sea for 15 years.

If the annexation plan passes, the Aransas County residents will have no choice, but to become a part of the city. They'll have to pay higher taxes, estimated at nearly $2,000 more a year.

"They're going to drive you out just so they can make more money to fix up all their boo boos that they have there in their town," Henshue said. 

Others are upset about the emergency services. They believe Aransas County provides better police, fire and e-m-s protection than the city of Aransas Pass.

"The service would deteroriate quite rapidly and we have a lot of people who need those services," said Jim Rummage, who is a concerned City By the Sea resident. 

City leaders said the annexation plan is not all about money:

"The city is looking to grow and it's been discussed for many years to grow out to the north and that's the way it's going to go," said Reggie Winters, the Arnansas Pass City Manager. 

Aransas Pass city leaders will vote on the annexation plan in about two weeks.