In 2000, Clarion Associates conducted a study of the Cross Timbers and its economic value to Flower Mound.  These numbers can be adjusted for today's currency.  This comprehensive study showed that community preservation, quality of life, and the local economy would be enhanced through Conservation Development.  The DeLuca administration added voluntary incentives to develop 1 acre clustered lots to preserve 50 percent open space without increasing residential density, and referred to the area of central and west Flower Mound as 4 distinctively different conservation development areas where these options applied.  Landowners could still develop regular two acre lots with no incentives.  Rather than look at this an an opportunity, many landowners unsuccessfully tried to sue the town for higher density, and also tried to remove the special designation of these pristine areas.   

          In 2004 The Smith administration allowed for gas drilling in these areas, 1 year following the gas drilling ordinance was passed that prohibited it except for far west Flower Mound.  It also pursued extending municipal sewer here in spite of opposition as sewer would make controlling urbanization difficult, would remove surface assets, and residents whose lots aligned with wastewater pipes would be charged per linear foot whether they connected to sewer or not.

          In 2013 the Hayden administration combined the 4 areas into a single definition and allowed for 1/2 acre lots and some increased residential density.  However, the original proposed changes actually included removal of this designation and the restrictions for developing in this area but community opposition was significant.  Developers continue to demand sewer and more churches are looking at buying property.  Such utilitarian uses would negatively impact natural assets and scenic vistas, nor contribute much to to the tax base.