Hood County Express Investigates
Skip Overdier went to Austin asking lawmakers to make an exception for gated communities like his own.
Back in Granbury, when residents urged the city to reject industrial zoning at the Project Patriot site, he seconded approval.
That contrast deserves attention.
On March 20 and March 31, 2025, Overdier testified against annexation reform bills in the Texas House and Senate. Official witness lists confirm both appearances.
According to hearing transcripts supplied to the Express, he introduced himself as both a Granbury council member and a Harbor Lakes HOA board member, describing a community of more than 500 residential properties.
His request was direct:
“What I would ask you to consider is if you could carve out the gated communities from being disannexed.”
His stated argument was protecting the city’s finances. But he also acknowledged something personal.
Asked whether his community wanted to leave the city, he answered no. Then he added:
“Just to be clear, if I was disannexed, I wouldn’t be on the city council anymore.”
Now consider his actions on Project Patriot.
On July 1, 2025, Overdier seconded approval of a support letter that included proposed incentives contingent on annexation.
On April 7, 2026, residents objected to industrial zoning at the project site. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial, 5 to 1.
Overdier seconded both the comprehensive plan change and industrial zoning approval. Both passed, 5 to 1.
His community’s existing status received his advocacy at the Capitol. Residents opposing the project saw him help move it forward.
Overdier understood what a change in city boundaries could mean for his own seat. Do the residents beside Project Patriot deserve the same urgency about what changes could mean for their homes?
More to come.
