Some consider it a well-kept secret just outside of Gainesville's service area ... acres and acres of untouched fields in the southeast section of town that borders Paynes Prairie.
Residents there say they like it that way: Well-preserved and rural, which they say is a benefit to both the community and the environment.
But city commissioners voted on an ordinance Monday night... and this area could be included in an "Urban Services Report," which means the county land could become city land.
And some residents say... they could destroy their way of life.
"We'd like to work with the city on a special committee to create a special service area... that would be very sensitive to these issues," Joni Ellis, resident, said.
Last night's meeting was the first in a series of four to decide whether or not to annex the land.
The next meeting is tomorrow.