I am not a fan of gated communities — exclusive enclaves meant to be enjoyed only by the elite few who can afford to pay for the privilege.

I prefer inclusive venues that are open to everyone.

That’s why — even though I only visited maybe once every other year — I appreciated that for the past fifty years, our small town was the gateway to such a beautiful state park.

When the sale was announced of the 5,000 acres surrounding Fairfield Lake (including the 1,200 acres leased to Texas Parks & Wildlife) I was bitterly disappointed.

Since 2017, we have been having conversations with our legislators about saving our state park; and for the State to allow that land to fall into the hands of developers was infuriating, to say the least.

My final goodbyes were said to Fairfield Lake State Park during a visit in February, and I did not go back when it re-opened to the public for a few additional months.

I do not fault Todd Interests for purchasing this property from Vistra Energy; and I do not believe he is in the wrong for beginning development of the property now in his possession.

I am concerned about preservation of the historical sites and the freedman graves; and I am hopeful that local families will still have full access to their cemetery.

The usage of water is also a concern, as potentially selling off large quantities could adversely affect wildlife, include the Bald Eagles that claim the lake as their home.

As to the issue of Eminent Domain, I am squarely on the fence, waiting to see what happens.

As a landowner of a home that includes woods and trails, similar to the former state park, I would fight tooth and nail if the State were to attempt to condemn and seize my property.

However, considering the land in question, the only folks displaced from their homes have been a handful of state park employees.

And of course, potentially a developer who — if he is worth his salt — will manage to make a profit off this venture regardless of the way events turn out.

Time will tell.

And this news publication will continue to watch and report.