A Texas neighborhood became a target of the right over immigration. Locals are pushing back

In Colony Ridge, a sprawling Texas neighborhood, residents like Mario Carranza have sought refuge from urban crime by moving to this quiet community. However, Colony Ridge has recently found itself thrust into the national spotlight, albeit unwelcomingly, due to unfounded claims propagated by conservative media and GOP activists. These claims allege that the neighborhood has become a haven for undocumented immigrants and that cartels exert control in certain areas. Importantly, there is no substantive evidence to substantiate these allegations, a fact disputed by residents, local authorities, and even the neighborhood’s developer.

These baseless reports have gained momentum, resonating with Republican leaders such as Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is eyeing a presidential run. This sudden attention has cast Liberty County, a Republican stronghold, into the heart of immigration politics, far from the U.S.-Mexico border. With immigration emerging as a pivotal issue in the upcoming elections, these unverified claims have arrived at a time when significant groups of migrants from Central and South America are entering Texas.

Colony Ridge’s developer, Trey Harris, a substantial contributor to Abbott’s political campaigns, has expressed disappointment at the lack of due diligence in verifying the allegations. He has extended invitations to lawmakers to visit the neighborhood personally and assess the situation.

While the law permits non-U.S. citizens to purchase homes, many in Liberty County counter the assertion that undocumented residents constitute the majority of Colony Ridge’s population. They emphasize that their community mirrors countless others across Texas, and they refute accusations of drug-related activities or cartel involvement. Harris, the developer, passionately defends the residents, characterizing them as families seeking better living conditions, improved education for their children, and enhanced opportunities.

Colony Ridge’s development began two decades ago, prompting some in Liberty County to question the timing of the recent scrutiny. Racial tensions, which Harris attributes to neighboring towns, may have contributed to the criticism. The community, which is rapidly growing and estimated to house around 40,000 residents, boasts greenery and amenities, with new schools and retail centers like Pizza Hut and Subway.

Residents like Zayda Cerrato, originally from Honduras, have found peace and tranquility in Colony Ridge. As the area experiences exponential growth, challenges have arisen, including overcrowded schools and the need for additional law enforcement personnel. Nonetheless, the crime rates remain comparable to other parts of Texas, according to the local sheriff’s office.

For Mario Carranza and others like him, the community’s growth has led to deteriorating infrastructure, particularly the streets. As political leaders focus on Colony Ridge, Carranza’s hope is that they address these practical issues, such as improving the neighborhood’s roads, to ensure residents’ quality of life.

In summary, Colony Ridge, a Texas neighborhood, has become a focal point of unfounded immigration-related claims. These allegations have attracted national attention, prompting political discussions and inquiries into the neighborhood’s actual situation. However, residents and local officials maintain that these claims are baseless, and the community continues to grow and thrive despite the challenges it faces.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Colony Ridge Immigration Controversy

More about Colony Ridge Immigration Controversy

• Texas Tribune: Unsubstantiated Claims Target Colony Ridge
• Houston Chronicle: GOP Leaders Amplify Claims About Colony Ridge
• Governor Greg Abbott’s Official Website
• Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ Official Website
• Liberty County Sheriff’s Office