Why REALTORS® Should Be Informed About Collin County’s Proposed Emergency Services District No. 1
On November 4, voters in unincorporated Collin County will decide on the formation of Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 1, a proposal that carries significant implications for public safety, property protection, and long-term development across the region.
As REALTORS®, our role extends beyond transactions, we are advisors, advocates, and trusted resources to our clients. That’s why understanding what’s at stake in this vote is essential.
What is ESD No. 1?
An Emergency Services District is a voter-approved political subdivision of the state of Texas. Its purpose is to provide funding for fire protection and emergency medical services in areas not served by city departments.
In this case, ESD No. 1 would cover the unincorporated areas of Collin County. These areas currently rely on interlocal agreements with nearby cities to provide emergency services, but several of those cities (including McKinney, Melissa, and Farmersville) have announced they intend to end those contracts. That could leave many residents with little to no coverage for fire and EMS in the near future.
Creating an ESD would provide a sustainable, tax-supported framework to continue these critical services, protecting both lives and properties.
Why This Matters to REALTORS®
“REALTORS® are already fielding client questions about potential service gaps, insurance exposure, and value implications,” said Johnny Mowad, President of MetroTex Association of REALTORS®. “Connecting community safety and property rights is core to how we serve our members and our region.”
Here’s what you and your clients need to know:
Emergency service availability affects property values. Lapses in fire and EMS coverage may limit mortgage underwriting options, raise insurance premiums, and create long-term concerns for resale.
Service gaps are already a concern. With cities withdrawing from interlocal agreements, many properties are at risk of being left without adequate emergency response coverage.
Growth without infrastructure is risky. Reliable emergency services are a cornerstone of responsible development. As Collin County continues to grow, so too must the infrastructure that protects that growth.
Stay Informed and Educate Your Clients
REALTORS® can play a key role in informing their clients and communities about this issue. The campaign website www.VoteForESD1.com provides:
- A searchable GIS map to see whether an address falls within the proposed ESD boundaries
- Easy-to-understand FAQs provided by Collin County
- Details about the November 4 election, including who can vote and what’s on the ballot
You can also view the official Collin County ESD FAQs here
A REALTOR®-Backed Approach to Community Safety
This initiative aligns directly with the REALTOR® commitment to community, property rights, and sustainable development. By supporting voter education and encouraging informed participation, MetroTex REALTORS® continue to lead with integrity and foresight.
We encourage all members with clients in Collin County, or who work in land, development, or rural property sales, to familiarize themselves with the ESD proposal and help share accurate, nonpartisan information in their communities.
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