This statement is misleading. The figure of 143 refers to land parcels that fall within the proposed footprint of the Grand Saline Creek Reservoir, not homes. According to data gathered from the Van Zandt County Appraisal District and reviewed by the City, there are currently no residential structures located within the proposed reservoir area.

The City has a long-term, voluntary acquisition plan to purchase properties over a period of 20 years or more, as they become available. The City does not intend to use eminent domain, unless an emergency water shortage makes it necessary to protect public health and economic stability. Even then, the goal is to acquire only the land required for the lake itself and a small easement around it, allowing most landowners to retain their homes and surrounding property. (Page 76 of the Water Rights Permit Application)

This project is being studied because Canton will need surface water in the future. Our current water comes from groundwater — but as more private developments dig new wells, our aquifer will face more pressure. That’s not speculation — that’s already happening across Texas.

There is no lithium mining project proposed, planned, partnered, or permitted in or near this water study. Canton has no interest in or benefit from any mineral extraction effort.

It will not. Engineers have reviewed the location relative to the salt dome. The dam of the reservoir would be located more than 2 miles from the edge of the salt dome.

Groundwater can be a reliable source, but only when it's not overdrawn. In Canton and Van Zandt County, rapid residential growth, new subdivisions, and rural development are placing increasing stress on our aquifer. Without thoughtful planning, we risk long-term depletion, especially during prolonged droughts, which are becoming more common in Texas.

Surface water isn’t about “control.” It’s about responsibility. Nearly every city in Texas includes surface water in its long-range water supply plans, because a diversified water portfolio is essential for stability. The goal isn’t control, it’s stewardship. Our duty is to ensure that future generations have access to clean, reliable water, regardless of what challenges the climate or development pressures bring.

Surface water is a common and essential part of every Texas city’s long-term plan. Controlling the future resources of our citizens is not only necessary, but it is the responsibility of every community across this nation.

The City of Canton does not control property values. All appraisals in Van Zandt County are conducted by the Van Zandt County Appraisal District (VZCAD) — an independent office required by state law to base valuations on actual sales data as of January 1st each year.

In fact, the VZCAD Chief Appraiser confirmed in writing:

“No, this project did not factor into our values. I was not even aware of the project until recently when it became so publicized.”
— Emily Reeves, Chief Appraiser, VZCAD

Here’s what else the appraisal district verified:

• Appraisals are based on past sales trends, not speculation.

• About 30% of the properties in the proposed area actually increased in value this year.

• No change — up or down — will happen unless real market data supports it.

If the reservoir ever moves forward decades from now, the City will offer to purchase land voluntarily at fair market value — not based on adjusted or manipulated figures.

The primary purpose of this reservoir is water security, not recreation or tourism.

All public reservoirs in Texas, by law, are built for water supply first. Recreation like boating or fishing is a secondary benefit that sometimes follows—but it is not the driver.

The City promotes Mill Creek Reservoir for public enjoyment because it’s already a community-owned water resource. It would be irresponsible not to let the public know about recreational opportunities on public land. That does not mean new water projects are designed for recreation first.

If a future reservoir is ever built, any recreation would simply be a byproduct of a public water source, not the goal of the project.

There are no known gravesites within the proposed reservoir footprint. The nearest cemetery, Starr Cemetery, is located more than a mile away from the estimated waterline. Historically, communities did not bury their loved ones in low-lying or flood-prone areas—especially not within river bottoms or seasonal creek beds. These natural flood zones were avoided for both practical and cultural reasons. As part of the planning process, the City has reviewed topographic maps, historical aerials, and county appraisal records to confirm that no cemeteries will be affected by this project.