Public Meetings - New Braunfels, Texas

The New Braunfels City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 6:03 PM at City Hall. All seven councilmembers were present. The meeting included a proclamation for National Hire a Veteran Day, public comments on various topics, approval of routine consent agenda items, individual consideration of several zoning and financial items, a presentation on the Police Department Headquarters bond project, and an executive session. The meeting adjourned at 10:20 PM. Proclamations - National Hire a Veteran Day: Mayor French read the proclamation. Mike Crowley and several veterans accepted and addressed the council, emphasizing the value veterans bring to the workforce. Citizens Communications - Esther Sandoval (lifelong resident) criticized the city's decision-making process, alleging that citizens are last to know about major developments and questioning the role of the Economic Development Corporation and Foundation. - Tiffany Kelly (District 4 resident) discussed the history of the EDC, noting it has spent $164 million in tax dollars over 31 years. She called for greater transparency regarding the EDC's current six code-named projects. - Kristen Carden (resident, Vice President of the EDC) clarified the structure of the EDC and the Economic Development Foundation. She urged respect for city staff and an end to online negativity. - Cassandra Canton (resident) expressed gratitude for city staff and criticized those who spread misinformation on social media. - Mike Frias (ETJ) responded to previous speakers, accusing them of lying about him and making fun of his health issues. - Lane Fluker (resident, legally blind) raised safety concerns about the Rio transportation service, including a driver transporting minors to a suspected drug house, lack of human trafficking training required by state law, and drivers' low effective pay. She requested city action. - Jonathan Marquez (non-resident, disabled veteran) described his arrest by New Braunfels police on July 15, alleging excessive force and lack of training on veteran issues and the Texas Compassionate Use Program. He requested an investigation into the officers' actions. - Terry Jackson (speaker) reported an incident involving his child who was handcuffed and mistreated. He demanded answers from the city. - David Warmke (District 5) pulled consent agenda item I and requested moving the Police Headquarters presentation earlier in the agenda. He also criticized city financial practices, including EDC spending and the use of certificates of obligation. Consent Agenda Items A (minutes), C (second quarter investment report), and G (interlocal cybersecurity agreement) were approved unanimously. Items B, D, E, F, H, and I were pulled for individual consideration. Individual Items for Consideration B-1: Contract with Siddons-Martin for Fire Apparatus Maintenance Pulled by Councilmember Shaw. Fire Chief Lozano explained the reasoning for sole-source contracting. Approved unanimously. E-1: Modular Building Purchase for Parks Operations ($223,160) Pulled by Councilmember Shaw. Assistant Director Eckmann described the project to replace a lean-to with a conditioned modular building. Approved unanimously. F-1: Budget Amendment for FY 2026 Special Revenue Fund Pulled by Councilmember Shaw. The amendment increased revenues and expenditures by $2.5 million for radio towers related to an ILA approved in January. Approved 6-1 (Mayor French opposed). H-1: Lease Amendment with Dietz Gun Shop & Range Pulled by Councilmember Carter. Assistant Director Eckmann noted the lease renewal for five years at $2,000 annually, with the city covering maintenance. Councilmember Carter expressed concern about future property sale. Staff clarified the lease is binding and the city can terminate with 30 days' notice. Approved unanimously. I-1: Consent to Issuance of Mayfair Bond (Road Facilities) Pulled by David Warmke. Council discussed bond details: $7.2 million, with $6.46 million for construction reimbursement. Mayor French questioned a typo naming "Pulte" instead of "South Star" as developer. City staff clarified the city has no obligation for the debt. Approved 6-1 (Mayor French opposed). 2A: Rezoning at 1038 & 1042 Seidel Street Applicant requested postponement. Approved unanimously to move to August 24, 2026. 2B: Rezoning at 256 East Austin Street to C-O SUP (Short-Term Rental) Staff recommended approval. Applicant Jeremy Coburn spoke in favor, noting the property near the hospital. Councilmember Shaw opposed, citing concerns about transient traffic and loss of housing stock. Approved 6-1 (Shaw opposed). 2C: Rezoning at 474 North Guenther Avenue to M-1 SUP (Short-Term Rental) Applicant requested permission for one residence with short-term rental. Discussion focused on an access easement and potential impact on a quiet zone (no-train-horn crossing) near Union Pacific tracks. Public speakers Wayne Peters and Hale Snyder urged caution. Councilmember Lebowski moved to postpone until access issues are resolved. Approved unanimously. 2D: Certificate of Obligation for Call Street Drainage Project ($9.6 million) Assistant City Manager Werner presented. The debt will be serviced entirely by the EDC (sales tax), not property tax. Public speakers David Warmke, Tiffany Kelly, Angela Keller, and Richard Kelshimer raised questions about transparency and the use of certificates of obligation. Approved unanimously. 2E: Reimbursement Resolution Authorizes the city to reimburse itself from bond proceeds for prior expenditures on the Call Street drainage project. Approved unanimously. 2F: Appointment to Ad Hoc Committee on Boards and Commissions After discussion among volunteers (Carter, Shaw, Spradley, Labowski), a vote was held. Councilmembers Spradley, Labowski, and Shaw received the most support and were appointed unanimously. Presentation and Update 2019 Bond Project – Police Department Headquarters Deputy City Manager Matney presented an update on post-warranty repairs, including roof leaks, drywall work, sewer repairs, and concrete replacement. A survey confirmed the building slab has not moved. A structural engineer has been engaged. Council discussed remaining bond funds ($1.2 million) and ongoing investigations. Public comments Angela Keller and David Warmke questioned the use of bond funds and suggested EDC funding for forensic audits. Executive Session The council convened in closed session at 9:27 PM to discuss economic development negotiations (Gruene 16), pending litigation (including real estate easements and two court cases), and the appointment of a City Attorney (personnel matter). The meeting reconvened at 10:20 PM with no action taken. Key Outcomes - Consent items A, C, G approved. - Fire apparatus contract, modular building purchase, budget amendment, gun range lease extension, and Mayfair bond issuance approved (Mayor French opposed on budget amendment and bond issuance). - Zoning items 2A and 2C postponed; 2B approved 6-1. - Certificate of obligation and reimbursement resolution approved. - Ad hoc committee appointed (Spradley, Labowski, Shaw). - Police headquarters update received; structural investigation continues. - Executive session held; no action taken.

The New Braunfels City Council convened in an executive session regular meeting on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 5:02 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Michael French with all seven council members present. The council entered closed session at 5:06 p.m. to discuss several items authorized under the Texas Open Meetings Act, including economic development negotiations, pending litigation, real estate negotiations, and personnel matters. The council reconvened into open session at 5:58 p.m. and took no action at that time. The meeting was adjourned at 5:58 p.m. Executive Session Discussions - Economic Development Negotiations (Section 551.087): The council discussed negotiations related to "Gruene 16." No further details were disclosed in open session. - Pending/Contemplated Litigation and Settlement Offers (Section 551.071): The council deliberated legal options regarding: - Real estate negotiations by New Braunfels Utilities to secure a permanent utility easement for the IH 35 Interceptor Upgrade Rio Bar Screen Project on a 0.7402-acre parcel at 470 Rio Drive, New Braunfels, Comal Appraisal District Property ID 67480. - Real estate negotiations to secure a right-of-way and utility easement for the Barbarosa Road Improvements Project, comprising a 0.4592-acre ROW and a 0.158-acre utility easement at 2241 Westmeyer Road, New Braunfels, Guadalupe Appraisal District Property ID 43773. - Cause No. 2026CV0238, City of New Braunfels v. Lynn K. Wohlfahrt. - City of New Braunfels v. Stoddard Construction Management, Inc., and Swiss Re Corporate Solutions America Insurance Corporation. - Personnel Matters (Section 551.074): The council deliberated the appointment and employment of a City Attorney and City Manager, including matters related to the search and selection of candidates. Note: The meeting minutes list both positions, while the transcript references only the City Attorney; the minutes are treated as authoritative. Key Outcomes - No action was taken in open session following the executive session. - The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m. with no votes, directives, or referrals recorded.

The New Braunfels City Council meeting scheduled for July 25, 2026, convened at approximately 9:10 AM. Upon roll call by Secretary Gale, only four council members were present: Councilmember Carter, Councilmember Edwards, Councilmember Shaw, and Mayor French. Three members—Mayor Pro Tem Capisi, Councilmember Sbradley, and Councilmember Lebowski—were absent. Lacking a quorum, Mayor French declared that no official business or votes could be conducted, and the meeting was adjourned immediately. Key Outcomes - No official business was conducted due to the absence of a quorum. - The meeting was effectively cancelled; no votes, motions, or actions were taken.

The New Braunfels City Council held a special regular meeting on July 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The meeting included three workshop presentations: proposed amendments to the city's drought contingency plan, an annual update from the Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area, and a presentation on the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan Incidental Take Permit renewal. The council also convened in executive session to discuss personnel matters regarding the city attorney position and subsequently voted unanimously to appoint Nathan Brown as Interim City Attorney. Workshop A: Drought Contingency Plan Amendments - Ryan Kelso, CEO of New Braunfels Utilities (NBU), and Andrew Cummings, Director of Customer Solutions, presented proposed amendments to Chapter 130 of the City's Code of Ordinances to adjust residential and landscape irrigation drought surcharges, revise drought stage designations and triggers, and clarify definitions. - The proposal includes: - Increasing drought surcharges from $1–$2 per thousand gallons to $4.18–$4.89 per thousand gallons for stages 3, 4, and 5. - Protecting essential household water users (those using 6,000 gallons per month or less) from any surcharge. - Aligning drought triggers with Edwards Aquifer Authority staging. - Maintaining stage 2 (twice-weekly watering) instead of moving to stage 3 (once every two weeks), which NBU said creates scarcity and inefficiency. - Shifting from enforcement to education; NBU stopped drought patrols in 2023 and reports water demands are flat or declining. - For new construction during stages 3–5, requiring 50% of turf for residential and 25% for commercial to be replaced with approved drought-tolerant ground cover. - Any excess revenue from surcharges will be directed to a customer utility bill assistance program. - The proposal has been reviewed by the NBU Board and the Community Advisory Panel, which endorsed the shift to education-first and protection of essential users. - Councilmembers discussed the frequency of stage 3 triggers (last experienced in 2022 for 2.5 years), the impact of reduced surcharge thresholds (from 15,000 to 12,000 gallons for domestic, 7,500 to 6,000 for irrigation), and the need for clear public education. - Councilmember Edwards requested data on the number of customers newly affected by the lower threshold. Councilmember Spradley asked about long-term turf restrictions beyond drought stages; staff noted ongoing Land Development Ordinance revisions. - No vote was taken; a first reading is planned for August 10, 2026, and a second reading for August 24, 2026, with implementation targeted for October 1, 2026. Workshop B: Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area – FY 2027 Contract Update - Jared Werner (City staff) and Sarah Hammond (Executive Director, Humane Society) presented an annual update. The city and county have partnered with the Humane Society since 1980. After financial struggles four years ago, the city increased funding and collaborated closely. - Key statistics: - The shelter serves the city and all of Comal County as the only brick-and-mortar facility, taking in about 4,700 animals per year (2025 intake: 4,700; 2026 projected over 5,000 due to 6% increase from 2024). - 93% live outcome rate (94% for dogs, 92% for cats) in 2025. - 50% of intake comes from within New Braunfels. - Starting pay for animal care technicians is $13/hour; staff of 26. - Financials: City/ county contract revenue covers 48% of total income; reliance on gifts, donations, and grants for 35% of operating expenses. The proposed FY 2027 contract includes a 13% increase (approx. $75,000–$80,000 from the city) to continue closing the gap. - Councilmember Edwards advocated for a 35% increase instead of 13%, noting growing intake and facility needs. Councilmember Carter suggested exploring Economic Development Corporation (EDC) funding for capital improvements. - Councilmember Shaw asked about raising adoption fees; Hammond explained that waiving fees helps move animals out alive. Councilmember Spradley requested a detailed breakdown of dollar amounts and potential trade-offs in the budget when the county also acts. - Staff agreed to bring back a report after the county determines its contribution, including an evaluation of 4B fund eligibility for capital projects. Workshop C: Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan Incidental Take Permit Renewal - Amy Niles, River and Watershed Manager, presented on the renewal of the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan (EAHCP) and Incidental Take Permit (ITP). The current 15-year permit expires March 2028. The proposal is for a 30-year renewal. - The EAHCP provides compliance with the Endangered Species Act, covering seven listed species in the Comal Springs and River systems. Without the regional permit, the city would face restrictions on river recreation, maintenance, and construction, or would need to obtain its own permit at a cost of millions of dollars. - Key proposed changes: expanding coverage to include infrastructure maintenance and repair (e.g., retaining walls, tube chute improvements); doubling permit term to 30 years; and updating conservation measures based on new data. - The EAHCP is funded through Edwards Aquifer Authority management fees; the city currently receives funding for many measures (e.g., litter management, vegetation management, non-native species removal). - Councilmember Edwards raised concerns about incorporating findings from ongoing floating vegetation studies into the renewal timeline. Niles confirmed studies will be completed before the draft but noted negotiations could be cumbersome. - Councilmember Labowski asked about fishing and wading at Landa Park; Niles confirmed existing protections remain. - Next steps: First draft submitted to U.S. Fish and Wildlife by September 2026; city council resolution expected around December 2027; application submitted February 2028. Coverage continues while application is pending. Executive Session - The council entered closed session at 7:08 p.m. under Texas Government Code Section 551.074 to discuss the appointment of Nathan Brown as Interim City Attorney and the search for a permanent City Attorney. Key Outcomes - Appointment of Interim City Attorney: Councilmember Edwards moved to appoint Nathan Brown as Interim City Attorney, effective immediately. Councilmember Labowski seconded. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). The council also discussed potentially making the appointment retroactive via a separate contract. - No other votes were taken on workshop items; those will return for formal readings in August and September 2026.

The New Braunfels City Council convened on July 13, 2026, for a regular meeting at City Hall. The meeting, which extended into the early hours of July 14, featured extensive discussions on the structural condition of the Police Department headquarters, the downtown paid parking program, and a contested vote to forgive a $644,770 airport loan balance. Several contracts and funding resolutions were approved for infrastructure projects, and the council took action regarding the interim city attorney position. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved items A (June meeting minutes), C (Freese and Nichols professional services for pedestrian improvements), E (vehicle purchases), H (FTE adjustment), and I (Fire Department live-fire training MOU with TPWD). - Items pulled for individual consideration included B (intersection construction contracts), D (contract municipal prosecutors), F (City Attorney budget amendment), G (pavement marking contracts), J (airport loan forgiveness), and K (historic tax incentive ordinance). Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens Communications: Several residents addressed the council on topics not on the agenda. Julie King and Eva Pepitone criticized the public engagement process for the "Envision NB" strategic plan and the hiring of California-based consultant MIG. Elizabeth Cortes called for a standardized public hiring process for the City Manager and City Attorney positions. Angela Keller raised concerns about a lack of contract transparency and prolonged sewer issues in Champions Village. Lee Brown defended the strategic plan, citing the thousands of citizens who participated in its creation. Other speakers urged greater decorum and collaboration. - Item-Specific Comments: During the Police Department presentation, numerous residents (Angela Keller, Tiffany Kelly, Joeylynn Mesaros, and others) called for an independent investigation and full public disclosure of all construction and warranty documents. During the downtown parking discussion, public testimony was sharply divided, with downtown business owners presenting survey data showing support for the program while others claimed it hurt their customer base. Discussion Items - Presentation on 2019 Bond Project – Police Department Headquarters: Jordan Matney presented an update on ongoing issues, including soil movement causing shifting pavers and concrete, roof leaks, sewer line breaks under the men’s locker room, and water in electrical conduits. A forensic assessment by a third-party firm is underway but not yet complete, with results expected in the fall. Councilmember Toni Carter presented a photo slideshow documenting over 300 identified defects, including significant humidity issues in the armory that could affect ammunition. Councilmember Edwards noted the movement appeared to be a significant engineering problem. Public speakers questioned the contractor’s role and the one-year warranty period. Councilmember Carter, supported by Councilmember Spradley, gave direction to conduct a full independent investigation of the building, hired by and reporting to the council, separate from the city’s internal assessment. - Downtown Paid Parking Program Discussion: Mayor French presented two resident-friendly proposals: 1) three hours of free downtown parking for residents and the ETJ with higher tourist rates, and 2) completely free parking for residents with tourists paying a higher rate. Downtown business owners were divided; Clarissa DeSanto presented a Downtown Association survey showing 54% support keeping the program as-is and 84% supporting it in some form. Staff confirmed that a review of the first year of data will go through the Downtown Parking Standing Committee in August and return to Council in September. Councilmember Spradley directed staff to explore free parking for Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipients. No final action was taken. - Consent Items Pulled for Individual Consideration: - F-1: A budget amendment for the City Attorney Department ($484,000 for severance and outside legal counsel) passed 4-3, with Councilmembers Carter, Shaw, and Mayor French opposed. - J-1: A resolution forgiving the remaining $644,770 loan balance for the New Braunfels National Airport passed 4-3, over concerns expressed by Councilmembers Carter, Shaw, and Mayor French regarding the lack of formal documentation for the loan, a point explicitly noted in the resolution. Councilmember Spradley advocated for loan restructuring rather than forgiveness. - K-1: The first reading of an ordinance for a 10-year historic rehabilitation tax incentive at 941 Lee Street was unanimously approved. - Other pulled items (B-1, D-1, G-1) were also approved. - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Annual Action Plan: Christopher Greenwell presented the plan, which allocates funding for public services (e.g., Senior Citizens Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters, San Antonio Food Bank) and housing/public facility improvements. Approved unanimously. - Mayfair Master Framework Plan Amendments: Thad Rutherford of Southstar presented proposed amendments to increase land use flexibility and adjust commercial locations. The changes do not increase dwelling units or reduce park acreage. Approved unanimously. - Castell Avenue Phase 1 – Coll Street Improvements: The council unanimously approved a $2.4 million EDC resolution for additional construction and financing costs and the joint-bid construction contract with Pesado Construction Company for the downtown drainage and streetscape project. - Citywide Pedestrian Improvements Phase 1: The council unanimously approved a $700,000 EDC resolution and a contract amendment with Freese and Nichols for construction administration. The project leverages 80% federal funding from the Alamo Area MPO. - Executive Session & Action on City Attorney: Council convened in closed session to discuss personnel matters regarding the City Attorney. Reconvening, Councilmember Carter motioned to remove the current assigned interim city attorney, default to Nathan Brown as acting city attorney, and retain outside counsel for assigned cases. The motion passed unanimously. A vote to formally appoint an interim city attorney is scheduled for the next regular council meeting. Key Outcomes - Police Department Headquarters: Council directed an independent structural investigation of the building, hired by and reporting to the council, to run concurrently with the city's own assessment. Staff was also directed to find temporary shower and locker room alternatives for officers. - Downtown Paid Parking: No vote was taken on amending the program. Staff will present data and options to the Downtown Parking Standing Committee in August, with a report and potential recommendations returning to the City Council in September. - City Attorney Budget Amendment (F-1): Passed 4-3. - Airport Loan Forgiveness (J-1): Passed 4-3. The resolution and speaker testimony cited a lack of formal loan documentation as a key concern. - Interim City Attorney: The current interim was removed. Nathan Brown will serve as acting city attorney. The council will vote on a permanent interim appointment at the next regular meeting. - Infrastructure Contracts: Multiple contracts and funding resolutions for the Castell Avenue and Citywide Pedestrian Improvement projects were approved, utilizing EDC funds and federal/MPO grants without impacting the general fund.

The New Braunfels City Council met in executive session on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers to deliberate personnel matters related to the appointment and employment of a City Attorney and the evaluation of the Interim City Attorney. The session lasted approximately 58 minutes, reconvening into open session at 6:00 PM, with no action taken. Executive Sessions - Item A: The Council deliberated the appointment and employment of a City Attorney, including matters related to the search and selection of candidates, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.074 (Personnel Matters). - Item B: The Council deliberated the appointment, reassignment, evaluation, duties, discipline, or removal of the Interim City Attorney, also under Section 551.074. Mayor French read Item B prior to adjourning into closed session. Key Outcomes - The Council reconvened into open session at 6:00 PM but took no action on any executive session item. The meeting was adjourned at 6:01 PM.

The New Braunfels Planning Commission met on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at City Hall. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Chair Jerry Sonier and adjourned at 7:05 PM. Seven commissioners were present, with Commissioners Randall Allsup and Vicky Rudy absent. The commission reviewed three zoning and land use requests, held officer elections, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The June 2, 2026 regular meeting minutes were approved unanimously (7-0-0) via a motion by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Nolte. Election of Officers - Chair: Jerry Sonier was re-elected Chair with a 4-3 vote over Commissioner Chase Taylor. - Vice Chair: Randall Allsup was elected Vice Chair with a 4-3 vote over Commissioner Vicky Rudy. Discussion Items A) SUP26-173 – Rezone at 256 East Austin Street - Proposal: Applicant Jeremy Coburn requested a rezoning from R-2 to MU-A SUP to allow a short-term rental (STR) on a fully renovated 0.3-acre property near the hospital. - Staff Position: Amanda Mushinski recommended denial. Staff argued the MU-A district is too intense for the mid-block residential corridor, and that introducing mixed-use zoning would open the door to non-residential uses like retail that would negatively impact the neighborhood's character. Staff suggested CO (Commercial Office) as a more appropriate transitional zoning. - Public Testimony: Two residents (Josefa Cedillo and Carlos Cedillo) spoke in favor, citing a lack of nearby hospital lodging options and compatibility with existing neighborhood STRs. No public opposition was voiced. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners questioned why MU-A was selected instead of CO. The applicant stated he followed staff guidance and was not aware of the CO option at the time. The commission discussed shifting the recommendation to CO. - Outcome: Motion by Commissioner Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Henry, to recommend approval of a rezoning to the CO district with staff recommendations. Passed 6-1 (Commissioner Mathis opposed). The recommendation will move to City Council. B) PZ26-0214 – Rezone at 1038 and 1042 Seidel Street - Proposal: Applicant Will Baker requested a rezoning from M-1 (Light Industrial) to R-2A (Single-Family and Two-Family) on a 0.3-acre lot. - Staff Position: Amanda Mushinski recommended approval. The rezoning would align the zoning with the existing residential use and development pattern, correcting issues caused by prior M-1 zoning that prevented homeowners from securing insurance. - Public Testimony: None. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners acknowledged similar previous cases driven by homeowner insurance difficulties. - Outcome: Motion by Commissioner Henry, seconded by Commissioner Nolte, to approve. Passed unanimously (7-0-0). C) SUP26-206 – Rezone at 474 North Guenther Avenue - Proposal: Applicant Miles Payne requested a rezoning from M-1 to M-1 SUP to allow one single-family residence with an allowance for short-term rental on a 2-acre, heavily wooded lot constrained by a floodplain and railroad access. - Staff Position: Mary Lovell recommended approval. Staff viewed the low-intensity residential use as a beneficial interim development for a site otherwise difficult to develop industrially, meeting several community planning goals. Staff noted initial opposition totaled 22% of surrounding property owners. (Chair Sonier later clarified that recent state law eliminated the supermajority requirement for this case, meaning only a straight majority of City Council is needed). - Public Testimony: Two residents (Tom Talcott, a neighboring property owner, and Carlos Cedillo) spoke in favor. No public opposition was voiced. - Commission Discussion: Concerns focused on the 15-foot access easement through railroad right-of-way, proximity to a railroad quiet zone curb, emergency vehicle access, and floodplain constraints. The applicant stated he had secured an email from Union Pacific confirming the right to build a driveway (concrete, asphalt, or gravel) on the easement and was working with the city on the curb issue. - Outcome: Motion by Commissioner Henry, seconded by Commissioner Nolte, to approve with staff recommendations. Passed 5-2 (Commissioners Allen and Taylor opposed). Key Outcomes - Item A (SUP26-173): Recommended approval with a change from MU-A to CO zoning. Vote 6-1. - Item B (PZ26-0214): Recommended approval to rezone from M-1 to R-2A. Vote 7-0. - Item C (SUP26-206): Recommended approval of M-1 SUP for a residence and STR with staff recommendations. Vote 5-2. - Officers: Jerry Sonier (Chair) and Randall Allsup (Vice Chair) elected for the term. - All zoning cases will receive final decisions by the New Braunfels City Council.

The New Braunfels Board of Adjustment held a regular meeting on June 25, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 6:59 PM. The board elected officers for the coming year, reviewed a residential variance request, and approved an alternative sign plan for a commercial development. No members of the public spoke during Citizens' Communication. Consent Calendar / Administrative Business - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the May 28, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). - Election of Chair: Brandon Mund was nominated by Steve Quidley and elected Chair unanimously (5-0). - Election of Vice Chair: Jenny Jaeckle was nominated by Chair Mund and elected Vice Chair unanimously (5-0). Discussion Items Item A: Variance Request for 307 North Guenther Avenue - Request: The property owner sought two variances for a detached garage on a 1920s corner lot to fully encroach into the required 25-foot corner side setback and 20-foot garage setback, resulting in a zero-foot setback from the property line. - Staff Report: Senior Planner Mary Lovell presented the application. Staff noted the lot's unique configuration and reported two public comments in favor and one in opposition out of 20 property owners notified. - Applicant Position: Agent Jeff Hillyer and owners Gregory and Roxanne Williams supported the request, arguing the garage fits the historic neighborhood, provides needed storage, and removes cars from the street. They acknowledged the pool and outdoor living area would occupy the rest of the yard. - Board Discussion: Board members discussed the 30-foot right-of-way width. Member Seth Reichenau stated he opposed granting the variances based on the hardship criteria, as he believed the need was created by the choice to build a pool rather than being a hardship inherent to the land. No motion was made. - Outcome: No motion was made to approve or deny. Chair Mund clarified this acts as a tabling; the applicant can return without the standard six-month waiting period required for denied requests. Item B: Alternative Sign Plan for Walnut Business Center - Request: Approval of an Alternative Sign Plan to install seven 5-foot freestanding multi-tenant monument signs for the 46-tenant development at 827-863 IH-35 to improve wayfinding and reduce visual clutter. - Staff Report: Colton Barker recommended approval with conditions. Staff initially described the signs as externally illuminated, but the applicant corrected that the signs are fabricated without illumination capability, which the board and staff accepted as a benefit. The applicant also stated the signs would replace numerous unapproved tenant signs. - Applicant Position: Sandy Kennedy (NB Signs & Design) and owner Fred Heimer supported the plan, arguing it creates visual uniformity, improves safety by preventing drivers from circling missed entrances, and eliminates the proliferation of unapproved, hazardous temporary signage. - Board Discussion: Members broadly supported the plan. Member Andrea Ranft expressed concern about the existing 15-foot "Walnut Business Center" monument sign remaining. The owner stated it is essential for identifying the development from the highway since the new signs are low-profile and set far back. The board agreed to keep it subject to a condition restricting tenant signage. - Motion & Vote: Motion by Jenny Jaeckle, seconded by Steve Quidley, to approve with conditions. Passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Item 6A (Variances): Tabled. No motion made; applicant may re-apply without a six-month waiting period. - Item 6B (Alternative Sign Plan): Approved (5-0) with conditions: (1) no additional permanent freestanding signs; (2) prohibition of specified temporary signs (inflatable, pennants, flags, beacons, wall banners); (3) removal of all existing temporary signage; (4) no additional tenant signage on the existing Walnut Business Center monument sign. - Executive Session: The board did not convene in executive session.

The New Braunfels City Council met on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting featured the swearing-in of new Mayor Michael Alexander French and Councilmember Nikki L. Shaw, recognition of outgoing officials, and a contentious election for Mayor Pro Tem. The council also approved a contract for a public safety training center feasibility study and funding for pedestrian improvements, while deferring a construction phase to July. Election Actions - Certificates of Election: Issued to Mayor-elect Michael Alexander French and Councilmember-elect Nikki L. Shaw for District 6 (minutes confirmed by City Secretary Gayle Wilkinson). - Oaths of Office: Administered by Judge Rose Zamora. Mayor French and Councilmember Shaw each addressed the audience. - Recognition of Outgoing Officials: - Mayor Pro Tem Lawrence Spradley gave the invocation. Former Mayor Neal Linnartz received a proclamation, a street sign ("Linnartz Lane"), and a flag flown over a city building. Former Councilmember April Ryan received a proclamation and a street sign ("High Partisan Part"). - Election of Mayor Pro Tem: After multiple roll-call votes (3-4 for Carter, 2-5 for Labowski, 2-5 for Capizzi initially), Councilmember Capizzi was elected Mayor Pro Tem on a 4-3 vote (opposed by Carter, Shaw, French). Councilmember Labowski withdrew. The process included assistance from parliamentarian Robert Stinson. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously with the exception of Item A (minutes pulled by staff for July 13) and Item E (parking fund, pulled by Councilmember Carter for individual consideration). Approved items included: - Lease agreement with Ricoh USA for multi-function devices. - Budget amendment for FY 2026 Equipment Replacement Fund. - Additional contract spend with Siddons-Martin Emergency Group for fire apparatus maintenance and budget amendment. - Resolution to consent to addition of 1.735-acre tract to Comal County Water Improvement District No. 3A. Citizens Communications (Public Comments) Ten residents spoke during the general public comment period (6:44 PM to 8:10 PM approx.). Key themes included: - Call to fire City Manager: George Green, former councilmember, argued the city manager should be terminated based on at-will employment and charter issues. - Criticism of establishment: Multiple speakers (David Warmke, Steve Ceh, Joeylynn Mesaros, Steven Fikes, Melissa Meshuta, Stephanie Maddox, Angela Allen, Michael Murphy) expressed frustration with the outgoing council's actions, particularly the Mayor Pro Tem vote which disregarded public support for Councilmember Carter. They cited lack of transparency, corruption, and disrespect to voters. Speakers also criticized the city attorney termination. - Water conservation: Bob Moore requested consideration of water conservation in new developments. - Specific topics: Steve Ceh spoke against DEI and LGBTQ+ events; Joeylynn Mesaros accused council members of dismissing public will and pledged to campaign against them. Individual Items for Consideration E-1) FY 2026 Parking Fund Budget Amendment (pulled by Councilmember Carter): - Discussion centered on a $200,000 budget amendment for the downtown parking reinvestment plan (pre-approved in May). Revenue from paid parking (approx. $374,000 expected) funds beautification, safety, and parking supply improvements. Questions were raised about transparency, with residents requesting bank statements and finding the fund structure confusing. Staff clarified that the parking fund is a special revenue fund, not general fund. Public comments included concerns about losing visitors and questioning the need for paid parking. Councilmember Edwards explained that 92-94% of tax revenue goes to public safety, requiring fees for other services. - Vote: Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Capizzi, seconded by Councilmember Labowski; passed unanimously. A) Contract Award for Public Safety Training Center Feasibility Study (Randall Scott Architects, Inc., $150,000): - Presented by Garry Ford, Police Chief Osbaldo, and Fire Chief Lozano. The study (6-9 months) will evaluate needs for a joint police-fire training facility, produce conceptual design and cost estimates for potential 2027 bond election. Key benefits: co-location savings, improved training (firearms, driving course, scenario simulation), recruitment/retention. Current facilities are inadequate (police lease a range 20 minutes away). Councilmember Edwards noted red tape concerns. - Vote: Motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Capizzi; passed unanimously (Councilmember Labowski absent for vote). B) Resolution for EDC Expenditure – Pedestrian Improvements Phase 2 Design ($405,000): - Funding for final design of Alamo Area MPO Citywide Pedestrian Improvements Phase 2 (sidewalks on Peach, Plum, Grape, Hans Drive, Avery Parkway). 80% federal funds (secured) + 20% local match from EDC. Construction expected in 2028. Councilmember Edwards explained the MPO process. Public comment: Timothy Davis questioned phase terminology; Kim Huntsman requested sidewalk at Dollar General (staff noted it's in future plans). - Vote: Motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Capizzi; passed unanimously. C) Pedestrian Improvements Phase 1 Construction Expenditure (requested $700,000; postponed): - City Manager Robert Camareno requested postponement to July 13, 2026, for additional work. Motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Capizzi; passed unanimously. Executive Session - The council entered closed session at 9:08 PM to deliberate the appointment of a City Attorney (Texas Gov't Code §551.074). Reconvened at 9:49 PM; no action taken. Key Outcomes - Mayor Pro Tem Elected: Michael Capizzi (District 2) with a 4-3 vote over Toni Carter. - Parking Fund Budget Amendment Approved: $200,000 for downtown reinvestment. - Public Safety Training Center Feasibility Study Approved: $150,000 contract to Randall Scott Architects. - Pedestrian Improvements Phase 2 Design Approved: $405,000 from EDC. - Pedestrian Improvements Phase 1 Postponed: To July 13, 2026. - No Action on City Attorney: Executive session concluded without vote. Meeting adjourned at 9:49 PM.