After a lengthy discussion, councilman, Eddie Simpson, made the motion to approve the plan of services, the first step in the annexation process. Council woman, Jennifer Wampler seconded the motion. On the vote, council members, Robin McNabb, Todd Kennedy and Jim Shields, voted against the annexation process. Council members Eddie Simpson, James Brandon and Jennifer Wampler voted in favor. This set up a tie vote. In the event of a tie, the mayor has the option to vote to break the tie. Mayor Tony Aikens, stated that he thought the owner had the right to do what he wanted to do with his property but he had concerns for "that particular intersection." Aikens said, "I'm certainly not prepared to vote, So, I'm going to declare it dead for lack of a majority." A loud applause was heard from the 15-20 people who were in attendance in opposition to the proposed annexation.

It's great that the council did not pass the vote and is likely the first time that's ever happened. It would be great to think at least half the council has decided enough is enough. But I fear this won't be the last we hear of this annexation.

On the second request, the parcels across from Highland park School, the council passed the plan of services by a vote of 5-1. Council woman McNabb was the only NO vote. It's still very unclear why the property owner wants to have her property annexed. All she's going to get is a much higher city property tax bill. Unless there's plans not yet disclosed.