Dallas City Council Approves $55 Million to Settle Trinity East Energy Lawsuit

The Dallas City Council greenlights $55 million in bonds to resolve a 2014 lawsuit with Trinity East Energy, ending a long-standing legal battle over drilling rights. Get the details on the settlement and the history of the dispute.

The Dallas City Council has given the nod to allocate $55 million in bond money to resolve a legal dispute with Trinity East Energy. The lawsuit, initiated in 2014, stemmed from the company’s contention that the city’s regulations prevented them from drilling on leased properties.

Trinity East Energy had paid the city $19 million in 2008 for leasing over 3,500 acres of land near Luna Vista Golf Course and Elm Fork gun range. Despite investing millions in planning and receiving assurances from then-City Manager Mary Suhm, the City Council denied the company’s drilling applications in 2013, citing inappropriate locations and updated drilling ordinances.

Following the denial, Trinity East Energy filed a lawsuit in 2014, eventually winning a trial judgment of at least $45 million plus interest in damages. Despite the city’s attempts to appeal, the legal battle concluded in December, compelling the approval of $55 million in bond money to settle the outstanding amount.

This resolution marks the end of a complex and lengthy legal battle, providing closure to both the city and Trinity East Energy.