Recent Email Raises Questions About City Ties to Trinity Estates Developer.

A newly released email has added fuel to the fire in the debate over Benbrook’s Trinity Estates development.

In the message, Sandlin Homes developer Scott Sandlin told Benbrook City Manager Jim Hinderaker that it may be time to “flip the narrative” around the floodplain concerns, a phrase that has many residents questioning the cozy relationship between city leaders and builders.

The email, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, details Sandlin’s claim that updated maps reduce the number of lots in the floodplain.

Critics argue that the counts are misleading, as many of the highlighted properties were never actually in the flood zone to begin with. Residents are also raising alarms about dust pollution from untested fill dirt being hauled into the area, leaving pools, cars, and homes coated daily, and raising concerns over long-term health effects.

Opponents of Phase 4 construction argue that the project not only threatens to compromise flood safety but also negatively impacts the quality of life for nearby homeowners. The Corps of Engineers has yet to weigh in, despite repeated outreach.

Neighborhood leaders insist the fight is far from over. Phase 4 has not been approved, and the Letter of Map Revision for Phase 3 is still under review.

Community advocates point residents to groups such as SaveTrinityEstates.org and local coalitions pushing for accountability.

For many, the controversy underscores a bigger issue: whether Benbrook’s leadership is prioritizing developers over the health and safety of its citizens. With local elections on the horizon, frustrated residents are calling for new representation to ensure their voices are heard.

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