Luis Davila has lived on his seven-and-a-half-acre property on Freestone Drive in Clarksville for over two decades. A military veteran, he purchased the land while still serving, and the area has since become a meaningful place to him and his family. He describes it as his safe place, where his grandchildren were born and where they kayak together. The property also has deep emotional significance: he and his wife have become primary caregivers to their grandchildren after the tragic death of their sister.
Despite the sentimental value, the land is plagued by flooding. During heavy rains, the field becomes waterlogged, turning essentially into a lake. Davila and his neighbors have repeatedly aired their concerns and frustrations over recurring flooding problems in the area. Though the issue has been covered by local media on multiple occasions, a durable solution has yet to materialize, leaving many residents’ homes vulnerable.
Meanwhile, the City of Clarksville is pursuing a plan to buy Davila’s property with the intention of converting it into a public park. According to a letter he shared, the city is offering approximately $500,000 and has requested a response by October 17. But Davila has clearly stated that he will not agree to the sale unless the city meets his terms and presents a viable plan to resolve the flooding. He says it is not just about his own land but about his neighbors too, many of whom have experienced flooding repeatedly.
Davila maintains that he is not opposed to helping find a solution, but he feels the city has not listened to him. He refuses to leave his home without answers and insists on respect for his concerns and the welfare of his grandchildren. For now, he has no intention of moving, stating that he’ll “go down with a fight” if necessary.
