New Braunfels Planning Commission Meeting - October 7, 2026

The New Braunfels Planning Commission met on October 7, 2026 at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Eight of nine commissioners were present (Commissioner Nulty absent). The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the September 1, 2026 meeting. Four zoning items were considered: one rezoning to commercial office and three rezonings with special use overlays for short-term rentals (STRs). Staff recommendations varied, and public testimony was heard on one item.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Item B (1330 Fieldcrest): Multiple residents of the Fieldcrest cul-de-sec opposed the rezoning to commercial office with an STR overhaul. Speakers included Celia Albera, Lindsay Nix, David Nix, and Millie Mincher. They cited concerns about changing the established residential character, increased traffic on the dead-end street, parking issues, noise, visitor turnover, and the permanence of commercial zoning even if the STR ceased. No speakers were in favor.

Discussion Items

• A) Rezoning at 1283 State Highway 46 South (PZ26-0302): Staff recommended approval of a request to rezone 2.6 acres from R-2 AH and APD AH to C-O AH for a professional services and counseling office. The applicant, Quentn Santiago, presented letters of support from neighbors to the west. No public testimony was offered. Minor questions were asked about floodplain and structure changes.
• B) Rezoning at 1330 Fieldcrest (SUP26-266): Staff recommended denial of a request to rezone 0.32 acres from R-1 to C-O SUP for a short-term rental of a new residence. The applicant, TJ Grossi, argued the zoning change was required by city code and that the area was in transition due to nearby improvement plans. Commisioners expressed concern about pocket zoning and permanent commercial base zoning. Following public opposition, a motion to deny was made and seconded.
• C) Rezoning at 242 East Austin Street (SUP26-287): Staff recommended approval of a request to rezone 0.16 acres from C-1 to C-1 SUP for a 2-bedroom, 1-bath STR. The applicant, Jeremy Coburn, noted neighbor support and limited occupancy to four guests. No public testimony was offered. Commisioners commended the applicant for neighbor engagement and moved to approve.
• D) Rezoning at 1064 Comal Avenue (SUP26-313): Staff recommended approval of a request to rezone 0.21 acres from C-3 to C-3 SUP for an STR. The applicant, Garret Mechler, represented the owner. A commisioner raised concern that the owner listed themselves as “in favor” within the 200-foot notification zone, but noted other responses were neutral or supportive. No public testimony was offered. A motion to approve was made and seconded.

Key Outcomes

• Item A: Approved unanimously (8-0). Forwarded to City Council with a recommendation for approval.
• Item B: Denied unanimously (8-0). Forwarded to City Council with a recommendation for denial. The public was encouraged to attend the City Council meeting on October 26, 2026.
• Item C: Approved unanimously (8-0). Forwarded to City Council with a recommendation for approval.
• Item D: Approved unanimously (8-0). Forwarded to City Council with a recommendation for approval.