Rockwall has expanded its boundaries for the second time this month by annexing 234 acres near FM549 and FM3097.

The property includes the Wallace family farm, which city officials had offered to exclude from the annexation if the owners would agree in writing to keep it undeveloped. But the heirs of John Wallace, who died in 2006, declined.

The farm, owned by the Wallaces since 1881, includes never-plowed prairies that the city has earmarked for a preserve in its long-range park plans.

The Wallace heirs had long declared that they had no plans to develop their land. But at a recent City Council meeting, they said they wanted to keep that option open in case their finances deteriorated.

The Wallaces and their neighbors vehemently opposed annexation.

City officials said they proceeded so they could control the scope and standards of development in the area.