Proposed Kaufman County Development Haulted After State Investigation

March 27, 2026 – KAUFMAN COUNTY, Texas — Plans for a large-scale development in Kaufman County have come to an end following an investigation by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, according to state officials.

The proposed project, described by developers as a “sustainable city,” drew widespread attention earlier this year after reports indicated it could house up to 20,000 residents on thousands of acres of rural land near Kaufman. Concerns quickly grew among local residents about the scope of the development, its potential impact on water resources, and questions surrounding its structure and oversight.

In February 2026, Paxton announced his office had opened an investigation into the project, citing potential legal issues and broader concerns about compliance with Texas law. As part of that effort, the Attorney General’s office issued formal requests for information to developers, including a U.S.-based subsidiary of Dubai-based SEE Holding.

The development became a flashpoint in the region, with some residents raising concerns about infrastructure strain, particularly on water supply systems, as well as broader questions about governance within the proposed community.

Congressman Lance Gooden confirmed this week that the developers have since abandoned their plans for the Kaufman County site.

Paxton welcomed the outcome, saying the state would continue to monitor projects that could pose legal or public safety concerns. “My office will continue to investigate any potential threat to the safety and well-being of Texans,” he said.

The project’s cancellation marks the end of a brief but intense period of debate in Kaufman County, highlighting ongoing tensions in fast-growing areas of North Texas where large developments can quickly draw scrutiny from both residents and state leaders.

Officials have not indicated whether the developers plan to pursue similar projects elsewhere.