Public Meetings - New Braunfels, Texas

The New Braunfels City Council met from 5:00 p.m. to 7:19 p.m. on January 20, 2026, in a Special Regular Meeting. The agenda included adopting modifications to the city's economic development policy, updates on the Ride the Rio transit system, a mental health pilot program, the parks master plan, roadway impact fee and ARPA projects, as well as changes to the Landa Park Aquatic Complex operating dates and park curfew hours. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Collins (Resident): Expressed opposition to lowering the Chapter 380 investment threshold from $10 million to $1 million, stating a concern that smaller businesses have a higher failure rate. - Clarissa DeSanto (Resident): Expressed full support for the threshold reduction, arguing it encourages small business growth and citing the Burnt Bean restaurant in Seguin as a successful example. - Eric Reed (Resident): Expressed support for prioritizing natural surface trails in the Parks Master Plan and connecting them to the larger trail network. - Destin Singleton (Resident, Parks Advisory Board): Expressed support for both the LPAC date change and the park curfew revision, noting they were backed by the Parks Board. Discussion Items - Modifications to Chapter 380 Economic Development Program Policy: City Manager Jordan Matney proposed lowering the eligibility threshold from $10 million to $1 million, adding historic preservation incentives, removing the building permit ineligibility clause, and establishing a 20-year payback period. The policy update was presented as a tool to allow city council more flexibility in approving future incentive agreements for specific projects like the Faust Hotel and Early Matters New Braunfels. - Ride the Rio Transit District Update: Julie Sitton and Via Transportation reported over 10,000 completed rides and a 4.9-star rating in the first two months. Employment was the top use case. Staff noted plans to evaluate expanding service hours and the microtransit zone after collecting six months of operational data. - Mental Health Support Services Pilot Program: Chief Pablo Flores introduced a proposed Interlocal Agreement with Hill Country MHMR Center to embed mental health professionals in the 911 dispatch center. The program aims to provide faster crisis referrals and de-escalation. Data showed a 26% increase in 911 mental health calls from 2024 to 2025. The agreement is scheduled for formal consideration at the next meeting. - Systemwide Parks and Recreation Master Plan: Jeff Bransford presented findings from 51,000 public engagement points. Top priorities included trails, fitness/wellness, natural areas, and shade. Challenges identified were aging infrastructure, geographic inequity, and an adult programming deficit. A final action plan is expected in spring 2026. - Roadway Impact Fee and ARPA Mobility Projects: Garry Ford detailed several infrastructure projects, including intersection improvements (Zip/Old Zip, Post/Green), corridor studies (Barbarossa, Thurfur, Hunter/306), and mobility improvements (Fredericksburg Road, Elizabeth Avenue, San Antonio Street lane reallocation, Comal Avenue traffic calming). Council discussed balancing traffic calming, bike safety, and parking needs with projected growth. - Landa Park Aquatic Complex & Park Curfew: Ken Wilson proposed delaying LPAC's seasonal opening to Memorial Day weekend to address staffing shortages. He also proposed changing the citywide park curfew from midnight to 10 p.m. to curb vandalism, with exceptions for sports fields and specific parks. The Parks Board supported both proposals. Key Outcomes - Chapter 380 Policy Approved (6-1): The council adopted the modifications lowering the threshold to $1 million and adding historic preservation provisions. Councilmember Carter voted in opposition. - Upcoming Agenda Items: A Chapter 380 agreement for Early Matters New Braunfels will be considered on January 26. An agreement for the Faust Hotel will be considered on February 9. - Direction on Transit Expansion: Staff will collect at least six months of data before proposing changes to the Ride the Rio service area or hours of operation. - Direction on LPAC and Park Curfew: Staff was directed to prepare formal ordinance amendments changing the LPAC operating calendar and park curfew hours for council consideration in February.

The New Braunfels Economic Development Corporation (NBEDC) met Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, 550 Landa St., New Braunfels, Texas. President Shane Hines presided. Directors Tera Thompson, Larry Hammonds, Don Austin, Atanacio Campos, and Cory Elrod were present; Kristen Carden was absent. Also in attendance was Mayor Neal Linnartz. The board approved minutes, received the January 2026 Treasurer’s Report, reviewed the BerryDunn Strategic Planning Outcomes Report, approved two expenditures, heard a presentation from Gener8tor, elected CY 2026 officers, and later entered executive session. No action was taken in executive session. Minutes - The board unanimously approved the November 3, 2025 workshop meeting minutes (motion: Thompson; second: Austin). - The board unanimously approved the November 20, 2025 regular meeting minutes (motion: Hammonds; second: Thompson). Public Comments & Testimony - No comments were made during Citizens’ Communications. - Public hearings for the Streets and Utility Design Master Plan and the parks facilities maintenance expenditure were opened and closed with no public comments at 5:52 PM and 5:57 PM, respectively. Treasurer’s Report - Jared Werner, Assistant City Manager, reported that November 2025 sales tax collections were up 13.6% compared with November 2024. After adjusting for the resumption of HC Supply sales taxes, current-period collections reflected about a 5% increase, above the roughly 2% budgeted. - October and November 2025 sales tax collections were up approximately 7.3% compared with Fiscal Year 2025. - HC Supply sales taxes will not flow directly to the EDC; the board previously allocated 100% of those collections back to the company as part of its 50% share, allowing the general fund to contribute 33%. - Werner also presented graphical information on projected revenues, current project funding commitments, and projected ending fund balance from FY 2026 through FY 2030. Discussion Items - Strategic Planning Outcomes Report: Jeff Jewell, City Director of Economic and Community Development, said the EDC has made about $45 million in community-centric investments since 2023, including parks, trails, open space, drainage and flood mitigation, and educational opportunities. About $22 million of those investments were identified through previous planning exercises. Karen Whichard, Manager at BerryDunn, presented virtually the Retreat Outcome Report and four draft priority areas: workforce support; planning and infrastructure; enhancing sense of place; and business recruitment and retention. The board discussed the report but took no action. - Streets and Utility Design Master Plan: Garry Ford, Director of Transportation and Construction Services, presented a proposed master plan to set standards for public right-of-way improvements, including underground utility conversions, pedestrian improvements, on-street parking, landscaping, lighting, and other enhancements. The cost is up to $175,000, with work expected to begin in spring and take about eight months. - Parks Facilities Maintenance and Operations: Jeff Jewell explained that, because the EDC cannot directly fund the Early Matters New Braunfels early childhood education initiative due to statutory restrictions, the EDC would instead fund up to $300,000 in maintenance and operations of Zip Family Sports Park, about $100,000 per year for three years. This would free general fund dollars for a proposed Chapter 380 agreement supporting early childhood education. He noted the Early Matters initiative is expected to cost $250,000 annually, with $300,000 in support from the McKenna Foundation over three years and a $25,000 capacity-building grant from the Kronkosky Foundation. - Gener8tor Presentation: After President Hines moved item D forward on the agenda, Michelle Boggs, SVP of Economic Development at the New Braunfels Chamber, said the community lacks accelerator, incubator, and co-working space infrastructure. Robert Pieroni of Gener8tor presented the organization’s model and track record, including support for more than 2,100 startups, $2.9 billion raised, more than 15,000 jobs created, and diversity statistics above national averages. Board members asked clarifying questions; Jonathan Packer, Chamber President and CEO, added that Gener8tor would hire a local employee and has flexible office-space requirements. No action was taken. - CY 2026 Officer Elections: The board unanimously elected Shane Hines as President, Kristen Carden as Vice President, Larry Hammonds as Secretary, and Don Austin as Treasurer for CY 2026, effective January 16, 2026. Key Outcomes - Approved the November 3, 2025 workshop and November 20, 2025 regular meeting minutes unanimously. - Approved an expenditure of up to $175,000 for the Streets and Utility Design Master Plan (motion: Austin; second: Hammonds; unanimous). - Approved an expenditure of up to $300,000 for maintenance and operations of NBEDC-funded parks facilities (motion: Hammonds; second: Thompson; unanimous). - Elected CY 2026 officers (motion: Thompson; second: Hammonds; unanimous). - Took no action on the Strategic Planning Outcomes Report, the Gener8tor proposal, or executive session items. Executive Session - The board recessed to executive session at 6:02 PM; the session began at 6:06 PM. The board discussed economic development negotiations for Project Shoot, Project Thread, Project Icon, Project Space, Gener8tor, and Gruene 16, as well as pending or contemplated litigation and privileged matters concerning 210 S. Castell, LLC. The board returned to open session at 6:48 PM, took no action, and adjourned the meeting at 6:48 PM.

The New Braunfels City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Neal Linnartz presided. All council members were present. The agenda included a consent agenda, multiple zoning requests, and a discussion on economic development policy modifications. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously. Items included the approval of minutes, professional services agreements, interlocal agreements with ESD 7, various annual contract renewals, grant applications, and two limited-purpose annexations. - Mayor Linnartz noted the consent agenda contained a total of $7.7 million in projects funded entirely through external sources (ESD 7, federal grants, and state grants) at no direct cost to the city. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Moore (Resident): Expressed frustration over damage and debris left in the Veramendi neighborhood by Astound broadband drilling crews. - Alita Meyer (Resident): Thanked the council for their service but requested they facilitate greater transparency from what she perceived as an organized citizen group. - Joeylynn Mesaros (Resident): Responded that the group is a grassroots movement of concerned citizens using social media, not a formal entity, and defended their First Amendment rights to assemble and speak. Presentations - Willard Canyon Park Recognition: Dr. Fred Willard was recognized by Ken Wilson and Jeff Bransford for his donation of the 10-acre park. Dr. Willard thanked the Parks Foundation and city staff for developing the hiking trails. Discussion Items TxDOT Rail Grade Separation Grant (Item 2A) - Presenter: Garry Ford, Director of Transportation Construction Services. - Description: Resolution to support the city's application for state funds to construct a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad. The project connects the Waterway Lane Trail to the Goodwin Lane shared-use path. The program provides 90% state funding with a 10% local match. - Outcome: Motion to approve by Mayor Pro Tem Spradley, seconded by Councilmember Labowski. Passed unanimously. Rezoning at 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road (Item 2B) - Request: Rezone approx. 6 acres from C-1A Neighborhood Commercial and R-3 SUP Multifamily to C-4A Resort Commercial to build a 150-room boutique hotel and reopen the tavern. A 1-acre buffer adjacent to residential uses was proposed to remain R-3. The applicant stated the rezoning would prevent apartments on the site. - Public Testimony: - Edgar Miles (Neighbor): Supported, stating he prefers the hotel project over the currently permitted multifamily development. - Mike Blahnik (Resident): Opposed, highlighting the loss of historic structures (Fachwerk house, root cellar) and approximately 50 mature trees. - Joeylynn Mesaros (Resident): Opposed, citing historic low aquifer levels and arguing the council should scrutinize resource use more aggressively. - Melissa Nairn (Resident): Opposed, expressing concern that the 75-foot height limit under C-4A allows a building of 6-8 stories next to a single-family neighborhood. - Rob Mims (Developer/Potential Buyer): Supported, identifying as a local resident and pledging to preserve trees and repurpose historic buildings. - Outcome: Motion by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Spradley. Approved 6-1. Opposed: Councilmember Carter. Short-Term Rental (STR) Rezoning - 160 E. Klingemann Street (Item 2C) - Request: Rezone from R-2 to C-O SUP for an STR in a residential neighborhood. Staff and Planning Commission recommended denial. - Public Testimony: Melvin Nolte and Jodi McCall opposed, citing the very narrow street (an original 20-foot alley) and severe parking limitations for up to 10 guests. - Outcome: Motion to deny by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Spradley. Passed unanimously. Short-Term Rental (STR) Rezoning - 1092 State Highway 46 South (Item 2D) - Request: Add an STR SUP to a C-3 AH property. Staff recommended approval. Over 20% of adjacent property owners objected, requiring a supermajority vote. - Discussion: Councilmember Edwards voiced concern about future right-of-way needs if Highway 46 is expanded. - Outcome: Motion to approve with a condition requiring a forward-exit parking plan by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Councilmember Capizzi. Failed 5-2 because the motion did not achieve the required supermajority. Opposed: Councilmembers Carter and Ryan. Short-Term Rental (STR) Rezoning - 385 W. Faust Street (Item 2E) - Request: Add an STR SUP to a C-3 property. Staff recommended approval. - Outcome: Motion to deny by Councilmember Ryan, seconded by Councilmember Carter. Failed 2-5. Motion to approve by Councilmember Edwards, seconded by Councilmember Labowski. Passed 5-2. Opposed: Councilmembers Carter and Ryan. Modification to Chapter 380 Economic Development Policy - Presenter: Jeff Jewell, Economic and Community Development Director. - Purpose: Presentation and discussion on updating the city's policy for making grants and loans from the general fund for economic development. Key proposed changes include: - Lowering investment and tax revenue thresholds to include smaller businesses. - Adding a category for historic preservation projects. - Allowing agreements with nonprofit corporations (now permitted as the city's population exceeds 100,000). - Setting a maximum incentive payback period of 20 years. - Removing language requiring projects to directly generate new tax revenue. - Council Discussion: Councilmember Capizzi noted the changes give more flexibility. Mr. Jewell confirmed the updates were desirable because of pending agreements for the Faust Hotel and the Early Matters New Braunfels childcare initiative. - Public Testimony: - Bob King (Resident): Opposed, arguing the changes remove critical financial guardrails and enable crony capitalism by reducing thresholds and the "but for" requirement. - Richard Kelsheimer and Jim Holster (Residents): Opposed, stating the 20-year payback is too long and the policy shift diverts taxpayer funds to private ventures. - Outcome: No action taken. Discussion scheduled to continue on January 20, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously, securing $7.7M in externally funded projects. - Rail Bridge Grant: Approved resolution for state funding. - Gruene Road Rezoning (Hotel/Tavern): Approved 6-1. - STR at Klingemann Street: Denied unanimously. - STR at Highway 46 South: Failed 5-2 (lacked supermajority). - STR at Faust Street: Approved 5-2. - Chapter 380 Policy: Discussed; action postponed to January 20, 2026. - Executive Session: Held regarding economic development (Project Maiden) and litigation (Yantis Company). No action was taken in open session.

The New Braunfels City Council met in Executive Session on Monday, January 12, 2026, at City Hall in Council Chambers. Mayor Neal Linnartz called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. A quorum was present with Councilmembers D. Lee Edwards, Lawrence Spradley, April Ryan, Michael Capizzi, Toni Carter, and Mary Ann Labowski in attendance. The council adjourned into closed session at 5:02 PM to deliberate on legally permissible topics under the Texas Open Meetings Act. Discussion Items - Economic Development Negotiations (Project Maiden): The council deliberated issues regarding economic development negotiations for a project identified as "Project Maiden" in accordance with Section 551.087 of the Texas Government Code. This discussion was conducted entirely in closed session. - Pending Litigation (Yantis Company vs. City of New Braunfels): The council deliberated pending and contemplated litigation, settlement offers, and privileged client information related to Cause No. 2014-0522A (Y.C. Partners Ltd. dba Yantis Company v. City of New Braunfels v. Halff Associates, Inc.) under Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code. This discussion was conducted entirely in closed session. Key Outcomes - The City Council did not reconvene into open session following the closed session. - No formal votes, decisions, or directives were made public during the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 5:49 PM without any action taken on the discussed topics.

The New Braunfels Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 6, 2026. The commission approved minutes from the December 2nd meeting, unanimously recommended amendments to Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) requirements for City Council, and voted 6-1 to approve a Special Use Permit (SUP) for a telecommunications tower adjacent to Fire Station 4 on Alyssa Way. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the December 2, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers addressed the commission during the general citizens' communications period. - Item B – SUP for Alyssa Way Tower: Jason Schaefer, an off-duty New Braunfels firefighter, spoke in opposition to the tower. He expressed concerns about potential health effects from RF exposure and the impact on firefighters' ability to sleep while stationed at the facility. Discussion Items Item A: Amendments to Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Requirements - Presenter: Carly Farmer, Assistant City Engineer. - Proposed Changes: The item recommended several amendments to Chapter 118 of the city code regarding TIAs: - Shifting from a blanket requirement to analyze all streets in a study area to a context-sensitive scoping process agreed upon by the developer's and city engineer. - Requiring street design analysis for construction traffic on perimeter and approach streets to address pavement failures and safety concerns. - Adding requirements related to the Thoroughfare Plan Update to mitigate impacts on residential areas. - Reverting turn lane criteria from Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) standards to a previous city standard. Staff argued the TxDOT criteria are more appropriate for rural state highways than city streets. The proposed trigger thresholds are 500 daily trips or 50 peak hour turning movements. - Establishing expiration dates for TIA worksheets (2 years) and TIA reports (3 years from approval or 2 years after the specified build-out year passes). Staff noted the changes have support from neighboring counties. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioners asked about the flexibility of the new scoping process and the application of turn lane requirements. - Public Hearing: Opened and closed with no comments from the public. - Vote: Commissioner Rudy moved to approve the staff recommendation. The motion passed unanimously. Item B: Special Use Permit for a Telecommunications Tower (2212 Alyssa Way) - Applicant: Vincent Hubbinger, representing Verizon via Vincent Gerard and Associates, Inc. - Proposal: A request to rezone 0.1 acres from R1 to R1 SUP and approve a Special Use Permit to allow a 150-foot monopole telecommunications tower. The site is adjacent to the New Braunfels Fire Station 4 and Oak Run Middle School. - Staff Presentation: Amida Mashinsky of the Planning Department presented the staff report, recommending approval with conditions, including requiring evergreen landscaping for year-round screening. - Applicant Arguments: The applicant argued the tower is necessary to address significant coverage gaps and network capacity issues, citing that surrounding towers are overloaded and that data volume increased at three times the prior year's rate. He stated the tower would collapse within the lease area per the manufacturer's fall zone analysis and would not endanger the fire station building or personnel. - Commissioner Discussion: Commissioners inquired about the tower's exact fall zone, visual impact, and landscaping requirements. The Commission's legal advisor noted that federal law preempts local zoning decisions based on health concerns regarding telecommunications towers that comply with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines. - Public Hearing: Jason Schaefer testified in opposition. - Vote: Commissioner Schaefer moved to deny the request. The motion failed for lack of a second. Commissioner Rudy then moved to approve the staff recommendation, seconded by Commissioner Schwarz. The motion passed on a 6-1 roll call vote, with Commissioner Schaefer dissenting. The decision will be forwarded to City Council for final action. Key Outcomes - Item A (TIA Amendments): Unanimously approved. The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council. - Item B (Telecommunications Tower): Approved (6-1). The rezoning and SUP recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for final consideration. - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the vote on Item B.

The New Braunfels Board of Adjustment held a regular meeting on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. Chair Brandon Mund presided over the meeting, which was adjourned at 6:58 PM. The primary agenda item was an Alternative Sign Plan request (CS25-0351) by U.S. Signs on behalf of Kahlig Enterprises Inc., doing business as Bluebonnet Motors, for a property located at 1310 IH-35 South. Consent Calendar - The Board unanimously approved (5-0) the minutes from the September 25, 2025 regular meeting, following a motion by Member Ranft, seconded by Member Avary. Public Comments & Testimony - Chair Mund opened the public hearing for item CS25-0351. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition of the request. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Colton Barker): Staff introduced the request for an Alternative Sign Plan to allow two freestanding pole signs that deviate from the established sign standards. The property is zoned C-3 and has 531 linear feet of frontage along IH-35, allowing for one pole sign. The proposal included a combined 40-foot by 25-foot brand and electronic message sign (cap sign with electronic message center) and a second 35-foot pole sign. Staff noted that a hardship is not required for an alternative sign plan and recommended a condition of approval restricting any additional freestanding signage on the property. - Applicant's Position (Lydell Toye, U.S. Signs; Wes Studdard, Bluebonnet Motors): The applicant argued the signs are necessary for visibility on IH-35 where traffic moves at 70 mph. The combined sign size mirrors existing signage at their nearby Ford and Jeep dealership, which was installed prior to the city's sign code adoption in 2008-2009. The second pole sign is mandated by corporate brand standards for Stellantis (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep). The applicant stated the property is elevated and requires larger signage for adequate visibility, and expressed concern that the requested deviation was being scrutinized when larger, non-code-compliant signs exist elsewhere in the city. - Board Deliberation: Board members voiced concerns over setting a precedent for large signs under the current sign code, the 'billboard-like' scale of the proposed sign, and opposition from some members to electronic message signs. Discussion examined the feasibility of alternative configurations, including a monument sign at the entrance in lieu of the second pole sign, and relocating the signs. Staff clarified that under current code, the presence of an electronic message sign on the property strictly limits the property to a single freestanding sign. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Jaeckle/Mund): To permit the electronic and cap sign at the southbound corner of the property and allow a monument sign at the entrance in place of the second pole sign. Failed (2-3) , with Members Avary, Reichenau, and Ranft in opposition. - Motion 2 (Mund/Jaeckle): To permit the electronic and cap sign with a reduced width of 20 feet (down from 25 feet), move the pole sign to the corner of S. Mesquite Avenue and IH-35, and reduce its height to no higher than 20 feet. Failed (2-3) , with Members Avary, Reichenau, and Ranft in opposition. - Final Decision: The Board took no final action on the item. The Board requested the applicant return with a revised proposal for consideration at a future meeting. The applicant agreed. Staff clarified that as an Alternative Sign Plan (not a variance), a revised request could be brought back without the standard six-month waiting period required for re-application of denied requests.

The New Braunfels Planning Commission met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, beginning at 6:00 pm. The official minutes are dated December 2, 2025, a discrepancy noted here; the meeting date used in this summary is the date provided in the meeting metadata. The commission heard two staff briefings, received citizens' communications, and considered six land-use items. It recessed from 8:00 pm to 8:10 pm and adjourned at 10:17 pm; no executive session was held. Consent Calendar - Approval of the November 5, 2025 regular meeting minutes: Motion by Commissioner Nolte, seconded by Commissioner Allsup; carried unanimously (9-0-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Holster, a resident, commented that the five-minute rule had been killed by the city for council meetings. - Tony Naylor, a former resident moving back to New Braunfels, thanked the commission for volunteering their time. Briefings - Land Development Ordinance update: Christopher Looney, Director of Neighborhood and Community Planning, presented the progress of the unified Land Development Ordinance (LDO). He said the consolidated draft of all four modules would be published online within the next week or two. He noted the LDO consolidates zoning, plating, historic preservation, and sign rules; reported that public surveys drew almost 800 responses; and described 40 base zoning districts, seven overlays, and 78 restricted districts. Early-out amendments have addressed ADUs, duplex lots, gas station parking, temporary storage units, food trucks, C-O density, tree fees, fence permits, and sidewalk triggers. Adoption is expected in the spring, with Planning Commission and City Council review in segments. - Envision New Braunfels update: Christopher Looney also presented the comprehensive plan update. The 2018 plan has 287 actions, 81% of which are accomplished or underway. A build-out analysis indicates New Braunfels could run out of developable land in about 10 years, so the update will emphasize infill and redevelopment. As of noon that day, over 1,000 people had opened the initial questionnaire; 473 had answered at least one question and 833 map response pins had been placed. The first open house was scheduled for December 11 at the West Side Library. Commissioners asked how public feedback would be weighed and integrated; staff said majority themes would inform plan goals, with cost and consistency with other adopted plans also considered. Discussion Items - WVR25-405 – Perron Business Park sidewalk waiver: Staff recommended against an outright waiver of the sidewalk requirement along Loop 337, proposing instead an alternative sidewalk of roughly 1,000 linear feet at a desirable city location. The applicant's engineer, Michael Mazzola, said the required sidewalk would approach a railroad overpass and was unsafe and infeasible, and TxDOT had reservations; the applicant's representative proposed a monetary fee-in-lieu contribution. No public testimony was given. Motion by Commissioner Allsup, seconded by Commissioner Nolte, to recommend approval to City Council conditioned on a fee-in-lieu of sidewalk construction, with details coordinated with staff; carried 8-1, with Vice-Chair Taylor opposed. - SUP25-397 – River Gardens rezoning (740 & 750 Rusk Street): This 70.198-acre request sought to rezone from R-2 SUP to MU-A SUP with a special use permit for residential and light commercial development and alternative standards. Staff recommended approval with conditions; the applicant asked to remove condition 8, a 50-foot no-disturbance river buffer. The applicant described a pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use village with a special-needs residential component, 41 acres of green space, about 83 lots, and roughly 13,000 square feet of retail/office, compared with up to 410 duplex units possible under R-2. Public hearing: 2 people spoke in favor, 11 in opposition. Opponents cited traffic and emergency access on narrow roads, floodplain risks, potential density and height, lack of a site plan, and the possibility the property would be sold. A motion to recommend denial failed 4-5; a renewed denial motion also failed 4-5; and a motion to recommend approval failed 2-7. Therefore, no recommendation was forwarded to City Council. - PZ25-0394 – Gruene Road resort commercial rezoning: The public hearing concerned roughly 6 acres at 830, 832, and 870 Gruene Road, from C-1A and R-3 SUP to C-4A Resort Commercial. The applicant proposed a boutique hotel and reopening or rehabbing Tavern in the Green, leaving a separate roughly one-acre parcel unrezoned. Staff said C-4A would allow resort commercial uses consistent with the Gruene corridor. Five people spoke in favor and seven in opposition. Opponents raised concerns about noise, hotel scale of up to 150 rooms, traffic, unknown future use of the unrezoned parcel, impacts on the Cotton Crossing neighborhood, and property values. A commissioner noted that C-4A would permit a tavern with live music under the zoning change. Motion by Commissioner Allsup, seconded by Commissioner Rudy, to recommend approval carried 7-2, with Commissioners Allen and Brasier opposed. - SUP25-377 – West Faust Street short-term rental: This item sought C-3 SUP to allow a short-term rental at 385 West Faust Street on about 0.2 acre. The 1,026-square-foot, two-bedroom, 1.5-bath home would have a maximum occupancy of six and two required parking spaces. No public testimony was offered. Motion by Vice-Chair Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Brasier, to recommend approval with staff-recommended conditions carried unanimously (9-0). - SUP25-375 – State Highway 46 South short-term rental: This item sought C-3 AH SUP for a short-term rental at 1092 State Highway 46 South on about 0.7 acre. The 1,422-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home would have a maximum occupancy of eight and three required parking spaces. Staff noted notices were sent to nine property owners; no public testimony was offered. Motion by Commissioner Rudy, seconded by Vice-Chair Taylor, to recommend approval carried unanimously (9-0). - SUP25-388 – East Klingemann Street short-term rental: This item sought C-O SUP for a short-term rental at 160 East Klingemann Street on about 0.18 acre. Commissioner Nolte recused himself at 10:05 pm. The two-story residence has about 2,400 square feet, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a maximum occupancy of ten, and four required parking spaces. Staff reported that 60% of properties within 200 feet were in opposition and a supermajority vote would be required at City Council. A representative read a statement from the applicant promising professional management and compliance with city rules; no other public testimony was provided. After discussion that the C-O rezoning would alter the residential character and followed prior commission precedent to deny similar requests, motion by Vice-Chair Taylor, seconded by Commissioner Allen, to recommend denial carried 7-2, with Commissioners Allsup and Schaefer opposed per the minutes, although the transcript vote tally is unclear and Commissioner Nolte had recused. Key Outcomes - Recommended approval to City Council: WVR25-405 (8-1), PZ25-0394 (7-2), SUP25-377 (9-0), and SUP25-375 (9-0). - Recommended denial to City Council: SUP25-388 (7-2). - Forwarded no recommendation for SUP25-397 after three failed motions. - No executive session was convened; the meeting was adjourned at 10:17 pm.

New Braunfels City Council Regular Meeting - December 8, 2025\n\nThe New Braunfels City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6:03 PM. Mayor Neal Linnartz presided over the meeting with all seven council members present. The agenda included a lengthy consent agenda, a proclamation, public comments, a major discussion on the 2025 Thoroughfare Plan Update, a resolution authorizing eminent domain for the Kohlenberg Road project, and an executive session for personnel and litigation. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM.\n\n Proclamations\n- David Schoenvogel was honored with a proclamation for his 40+ years of operating the miniature train concession in Landa Park. Chad Donegan also addressed the council and presented Mr. Schoenvogel with a commemorative street sign.\n\n Citizens Communications & Testimony\n- Bob King, Jim Holster, Shawn Metz, Joey Lynn Mesaros, Dick Bogart, and Richard Kelshimer addressed the council.\n- Bob King criticized the council for a pattern of tone-deaf leadership and a lack of transparent debate, suggesting decisions appeared predetermined.\n- Jim Holster raised concerns about the New Braunfels Housing Authority, a proposed Public Facilities Corporation, and the council's reappointment of a board member he felt disrespected elderly residents.\n- Shawn Metz, a new ETJ resident, expressed concerns about elected officials profiting from growth and a lack of representation.\n- Joey Lynn Mesaros stated that residents feel unheard and that decisions feel predetermined. She played audio clips of the mayor indicating he would push aside \"naysayers\" to achieve the city's strategic plan.\n- Dick Bogart, a small developer, expressed frustration with city processes slowing development.\n- Richard Kelshimer encouraged citizens to participate in the city's Comprehensive Plan survey and open house.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- The 20-item consent agenda was approved unanimously. It included routine approvals such as the FY 2025 Q4 Investment Report, a mayoral appointment, a digital billboard development agreement, vehicle purchases, changes to Downtown Board Bylaws, a Professional Services Agreement for Alligator Creek Trail, an amendment to the SRO Interlocal Agreement with NBISD, an MOU with New Braunfels Utilities, first readings of annexations for the Mayfair-North Ransom and Veramendi subdivisions, and final readings for ordinances on speed limits, school zones, rezoning (265 School Avenue and a 72-acre tract near Kohlenberg Road), HB 24 alignment, animal quarantine, and Impact Fee Advisory Committee compliance with state law.\n\n Discussion Items\n\nItem B: 2025 Thoroughfare Plan Update\n- Staff (Jordan Matney, Garry Ford, and Fire Chief Ruy Lozano) presented the plan as a development-led planning tool critical for managing growth, public safety, and emergency response times. Chief Lozano stated, \"This thoroughfare plan is thoroughly a public safety plan.\"\n- An extended public hearing was held. Opponents, including State Representative Kari Isaac, criticized the public outreach process and requested the removal of specific connections (Seminole Drive, Old Mission Lane, Pleasant Lane, and Countryside Drive) to preserve neighborhood character and property rights. Proponents, including the Chamber of Commerce and Comal County officials, argued the plan was essential for safety, responsible growth, and leveraging state/federal transportation funding.\n- A motion to approve the plan with the exclusion of Seminole Drive failed (3-4). Councilmembers Carter, Labowski, and Mayor Pro Tem Spradley voted in favor; Councilmembers Capizzi, Edwards, Ryan, and Mayor Linnartz opposed.\n- A motion to approve the plan as recommended by staff passed (5-2). Councilmembers Carter and Labowski opposed.\n\nItem A: Authorization of Eminent Domain for Kohlenberg Road\n- Matt Eckmann presented a resolution to authorize eminent domain proceedings for a 2.309-acre tract owned by the Frueholz Estate necessary for the Kohlenberg Road widening project. Staff noted over 10 months of unsuccessful negotiations.\n- Joe Tays, representing the estate, spoke in opposition, arguing the city’s appraisal of $4.54/sq ft was far below the current market value of comparable properties (citing recent sales at over $11/sq ft) and urged the council to delay the vote for further good-faith negotiation.\n- The council passed the resolution unanimously. Councilmembers emphasized that the vote was on the necessity of the land and that negotiations could continue.\n\n Executive Session & Personnel Action\n- Council convened in executive session at 9:10 PM to deliberate on the City Manager's evaluation and pending litigation.\n- Reconvening at 9:22 PM, Mayor Pro Tem Spradley motioned for a vote of confidence and a 3% salary increase for City Manager Robert Camareno, setting his annual salary at $322,680. The motion passed unanimously.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Approved (5-2): 2025 Thoroughfare Plan Update.\n- Approved (Unanimous): Resolution authorizing eminent domain proceedings for the Kohlenberg Road right-of-way acquisition.\n- Approved (Unanimous): 3% salary increase for City Manager Robert Camareno ($322,680).\n- Approved (Unanimous): 20-item Consent Agenda.

The New Braunfels City Council convened for an executive session regular meeting on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 5:01 p.m. Mayor Neal Linnartz called the meeting to order with a quorum present (Councilmembers D. Lee Edwards, Lawrence Spradley, April Ryan, Michael Capizzi, Toni Carter, and Mary Ann Labowski). The council immediately entered closed session at 5:02 p.m. to deliberate two items: (1) the appointment, evaluation, duties, discipline, or removal of the City Manager, in accordance with Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code; and (2) pending and contemplated litigation, including City of New Braunfels v. Stoddard Construction Management, Inc. and Swiss Re Corporate Solutions America Insurance Corp. (Case No. C2024-1777D). The council reconvened into open session at 6:02 p.m., announced that not all executive session items were completed, and indicated they would reconvene into executive session following the regular meeting. No action was taken during this open session. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions were made. - The council did not complete deliberation on either the City Manager matter or the litigation case. - The council will reconvene into executive session after the regular meeting (later that evening) to continue the discussions.