Plans for a large-scale Islamic development in Kaufman County have been scrapped following an investigation by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and concerns raised by local residents.
In early February, residents in Kaufman County, located southeast of Dallas, voiced concerns about a Dubai-based development company, SEE Holding, in connection with Kaufman Solar LLC, which had purchased thousands of acres of land near Kaufman, Texas.
The developers had planned to house at least 20,000 foreign nationals in what they called a “sustainable city,” alarming many residents. Locals feared that the influx of foreign nationals would strain the area’s rural infrastructure, particularly the local water supply.
After residents raised concerns, Paxton launched an investigation into the development, stating that many Texans were worried the illegal development could be designed as a “sharia city.”
As part of the investigation, Paxton’s office sent Requests to Examine, or RTEs, to SEE Holding and Kaufman Solar LLC, demanding information related to the companies’ communications with local and state officials, as well as “information regarding the development and real estate acquisition in Texas.”
Following the investigation and public opposition, U.S. Rep. Lance Gooden confirmed that the developers decided to abandon their plans for the proposed community in Kaufman County.
“I spoke with them directly within the past 24 hours and advised them to step back and reconsider whether this was the right time and fit for their property,” Gooden told The Daily Caller. “Following that conversation, I’m pleased to announce they’ve decided not to move forward in Kaufman County. This matter is resolved, and there is no cause for continued concern.”
Paxton also commented on the decision, stating that his office will continue to investigate potential threats to Texans.
“Because of the risks posed by the infiltration of sharia law into Texas, my office will work tirelessly to end any illegal scheme that seeks to subvert the Constitution and disrupt the American way of life,” Paxton said. “I am glad to see that the developers of this ‘sharia city’ in Kaufman County have ceased their operations following my office’s investigation. My office will continue to investigate any potential threat to the safety and well-being of Texans.”
This isn’t the only recent success Paxton has had related to similar developments.
Last week, a Collin County judge approved a temporary restraining order against another Muslim development in Josephine, Texas. The case alleged that the board of Double R Municipal Utility District No. 2A had resigned and was replaced by new members, who then approved a petition to incorporate the EPIC City development into its boundaries, potentially bypassing state oversight.
According to legislation signed by Gov. Greg Abbott during the last legislative session, residential property developments are prohibited from “creating Sharia compounds and defrauding and discriminating against Texans.”