A district court has denied a motion filed by developers in an ongoing legal dispute with Rockwall County, allowing the case to move forward toward mediation and a potential trial.
The case involves DMDS Land Company LLC and D.R. Horton-Texas, Ltd., who filed an amended motion for partial summary judgment against Rockwall County. In an order signed March 30, 2026, the court denied that motion, determining the issues presented require further examination.
According to the court’s ruling, the claims raised involve factual questions that cannot be resolved at this stage of the litigation, meaning the case will proceed through the legal process rather than being decided early.
The order also outlines next steps, requiring both parties to agree on a mediator and submit a scheduling order, including discovery deadlines, expert designations, and a trial setting—by April 20, 2026.
Rockwall County Judge Frank New responded to the decision, emphasizing the broader significance of the case beyond the courtroom.
“For Rockwall County, this has never simply been about litigation,” New said. “It is about ensuring that growth within our community is safe, responsible, and built to a standard that protects the people who live here today, as well as those who will call Rockwall County home in the future.”
New also noted that the County looks forward to presenting the full merits of its case as the process continues.
The lawsuit centers on development regulations and the County’s authority related to infrastructure requirements and associated costs tied to new development projects. While the court’s ruling does not resolve the dispute, it keeps all major issues in place for further legal review.
Comment from the plaintiffs was not available at the time of publication.
Source Document: Official court order filed March 30, 2026
