SEBASTIAN — The annexation of another 40 acres into the city could bring the city a new residential development east of Sebastian River High School.

The City Council last month unanimously approved a land-use change for 40 acres currently zoned for “rural residential” use by Indian River County. If annexed, the property would be designated for “low-density residential” development.

Property owner Daniel Hess in January petitioned the city to annex his land. The property borders the city on the south and west. The annexation was approved on first reading but still needs final approval by the City Council.

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The 40 acres is adjacent to a 38-acre parcel already within the city limits. When developed together, the 78 acres could become a planned unit development consisting of a new residential neighborhood with approximately 156 single-family homes.

No site plan has been submitted to the city.

Community Development Director Lisa Frazier said in 2022, about 50 acres was annexed. But with the Graves Brothers annexation approved in February, more than 2,000-acres could now expand the city limits by more than 20%.