To: The Magnolia City Council 

From: Residents of Magnolia, Texas

Our Position: 

Rachel Steele, the current director of the Economic Development Corporation 4A and 4B needs to be removed. 

Concerns About EDC Leadership and Direction

Residents are concerned that Rachel Steele, as director of the Economic Development Corporation 4A and 4B, has placed the interests of large developers ahead of the needs of Magnolia residents. Under her direction, the EDC has supported major high-density projects, including Magnolia Town Center and the Walmart/apartment developments, that many residents believe will permanently change the character of the city.

Lack of Transparency and Public Involvement

The EDC often serves as the gatekeeper for major development proposals, including the early vetting of developers before the public has a meaningful opportunity to participate. By the time these projects reach a public meeting, residents frequently feel they are being presented as already decided rather than openly discussed.

Decisions that will shape Magnolia’s future should be made with transparency, accountability, and genuine public input. Residents deserve a planning process that reflects the voices of the people who live here, not only the priorities of outside investors and developers.

Impact on Residents and the Community

Residents are also concerned that the current development direction is moving Magnolia toward a denser, more metropolitan model without adequately considering the costs to local families, neighborhoods, and natural spaces. These concerns include:

·         Increased traffic congestion and pressure on local roads;

·         More pollution, road noise, and strain on quality of life;

·         Greater public safety concerns as density increases;

·         Loss of green space, wildlife habitat, and the small-town character residents value.

Use of Taxpayer Resources

Many residents believe taxpayer dollars should be used to strengthen Magnolia, protect its long-term stability, and support projects that provide clear public benefit. Instead, there is growing concern that EDC decisions are creating long-term liabilities for the city while benefiting investors and developers.

The City Council should ensure that economic development serves residents first and protects Magnolia’s heritage, infrastructure, and quality of life.

Call for Accountability

For these reasons, residents call on the Magnolia City Council to hold EDC leadership accountable and take action to remove Rachel Steele from her position as director of the Economic Development Corporation 4A and 4B.

It’s time for Rachel Steele to go.