nowhere, we’d be the shining star for hundreds of miles,” Mueller says. “But here, we’re among some of the best communities in the nation.” This reality has informed the town’s strategy for more than a decade. Rather than trying to replicate what larger neighbors have—such as major highway access or sprawling corporate parks—Little Elm focuses on its distinct advantages. The lake and its 66 miles of shoreline provide the foundation for a lifestyle that is both marketable and deeply rooted in place. “Quality of life is the product we can sell,” Mueller says. “We want to be the ‘live, play’ community—where people come for the lifestyle, then stay for the opportunities.” STRENGTHENING UTILITIES FOR LONGTERM Supporting the town’s growth requires ongoing investment in infrastructure. One of the top priorities is expanding water and sewer capacity on the west side of town. Robust utility projects over the next few years will secure capacity for future development while ensuring current service levels remain strong. Securing a long-term water contract with the town’s wholesale provider is another key objective. Roads present their challenges.The lake interrupts a traditional grid system, and many key thoroughfares are state or county roads outside of direct town control. Little Elm collaborates with these agencies to improve mobility and accessibility, ensuring that visitors can easily reach the town’s attractions. FULL LIFE-CYCLE HOUSING Housing diversity is another area where Little Elm has made significant strides. Once known primarily for starter homes, the town has expanded its offerings to include apartments, move-up homes, senior living communities, and workforce housing.“We want to be a full lifecycle community,” Mueller says.“If someone wants to make Little Elm their home, they can do it from their first to their last home.” BUILDING A SAFE AND SCENIC COMMUNITY Parks and recreation are central to the town’s appeal and identity. The recently updated Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan outlines priorities for future investment, focusing on large community and regional parks that can host major events.A recent $11 million park project on the lake includes three pavilions, a lakeside playground, and 19 day-use shelters, creating a space that blends recreation with scenic beauty. Public safety is deeply integrated into this qualityof-life approach. Over the past decade, the police department has grown from about 30 officers to 108, and the fire department has expanded from two stations and 30 firefighters to four stations and more than 90 personnel.“We blend our departments, we’re not siloed,” Mueller says. “Events, safety, parks, 123 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 LITTLE ELM, TX
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