Kaufman County, Texas has become the focal point of a significant controversy as plans for a substantial development project, backed by investors from the United Arab Emirates, came to light. This project aims to establish a sustainable city within an unincorporated area of the county. The situation surfaced in 2022 when Kaufman Solar LLC acquired a considerable land parcel, initially causing little concern among the locals. However, the subsequent revelation of a Middle Eastern buyer's intent to purchase an additional 2,000 acres adjoining the planned solar farm has set off alarm bells within the community.
January 30 marked a turning point when a Facebook post raised questions about the development, dubbed "Geocity," and its funding by Saudi Arabian investors. The post, which suggested the city could house over 20,000 people, spurred residents to investigate the veracity of the rumors. An anonymous source confirmed to the original poster that a company was indeed pursuing this land acquisition. A text message, authenticated by the Daily Caller, indicated that local officials, including commissioners and school administrators, were previously aware of the development plans but had not disclosed them publicly.
During the January 20 Kaufman County Commissioner Court meeting, a Dallas law firm representing the buyer proposed the development contingent upon the county's approval of three new municipal water districts. The potential developer, SEE Holding, is a UAE-based global holding group from Dubai, emphasizing sustainability and net-zero emissions initiatives.
Republican Representative Lance Gooden acknowledged the buyer's Dubai operation and voiced significant concerns that he insists need addressing before any development proceeds. Gooden revealed that the development group had contacted him directly, agreeing to his conditions, including the exclusion of mosques or religious schools, and offered to document these commitments in writing.
The congressman's stance reflects a cautious approach towards foreign investment and development, emphasizing the need for community engagement and support. He differentiated between this situation and that of domestic developers, citing less concern if the investors were from within the United States.
Questions about the county officials' knowledge of the project have arisen, with allegations suggesting that Commissioner Terry Crow had detailed knowledge before the public's awareness. The Kaufman County Commissioners Court had set a vote on the new water districts for February 10, but the agenda item was removed during the February 3 meeting. County Judge Jakie Allen explained that developers had requested a delay to present comprehensive plans and address public concerns.
Allen also sought to assuage fears regarding the religious nature of the development, indicating that no mosque would ever be built on the site, as assured by the developers.
