Public Meetings - San Antonio, Texas

The San Antonio Planning Commission held a meeting on October 8, 2025, to consider two contested rezoning cases: Article 9, a request to rezone a property on Cross Mountain Trail from residential to community commercial, and Article 10, a large-scale area rezoning on the east side to replace heavy industrial designations with community commercial and light industrial. The meeting included extensive public testimony and debate over the impacts on neighborhoods, traffic, pollution, and historic racial inequities. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar (combined agenda items not requiring discussion) was approved by a roll-call vote (8-0) after Commissioner Bustamante recused himself for Case 3 and temporarily left the dais. - Articles 2 and 8 were removed: Article 2 was pulled for individual consideration, and Article 8 was postponed to a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony Article 9 – Cross Mountain Trail Rezoning - Seven callers and one in-person speaker expressed strong opposition to changing the zoning from residential to commercial. They cited safety concerns (curves, speeding, school buses, children playing), noise, potential traffic increases, and the destruction of the rural character of the neighborhood. Several noted the property is in a floodplain and should not be developed commercially. One caller said that children are nearly hit by trucks every day. - The applicant, Emily Weissler, requested a two-week postponement to finalize an agreement with residents, noting that a meeting had finally occurred the day before and they were close to a resolution. Article 10 – Eastside Area Rezoning (PA-2025-116-054) - Residents and community representatives (including Cliff Cedenio, Jesse Mireles, Fabio Cyclehart, James McKnight, and others) testified overwhelmingly in favor of the rezoning to eliminate heavy industrial (I-2) and transition to light industrial and commercial. They described decades of pollution, dust, noise, and health problems (respiratory issues, cancer) affecting the predominantly African American and Hispanic neighborhoods. Several speakers highlighted the history of racial discrimination and "redlining" that led to industry being placed next to their homes. They argued that the rezoning is a matter of environmental justice and basic human rights. - Some business owners and their representatives, including Mr. Brown (representing multiple properties on Paulson and Brussels streets), opposed the removal of heavy industrial designations from certain parcels. They argued that light industrial (L) zoning would still allow current uses and provide flexibility for future tenants, whereas community commercial (C-2) would force them to seek conditional use permits for every new tenant, harming small businesses. They requested that specific properties (e.g., 1039 Brussels, 639 Gambler) be kept as light industrial. - A few callers (e.g., Maria Patricia, Tony Melson) also supported the rezoning for health and safety reasons. - Commissioner Milam asked the community representatives if they were satisfied with the amendments added by the Zoning Commission the previous day; the response indicated that they wanted the properties listed for light industrial to remain under that designation to continue current operations. Discussion Items Article 9 – Rezoning on Cross Mountain Trail (PA-2025-061) - Clayton Walsh, city planner, recommended denial, stating the property is in a residential area and the proposed community commercial zoning is incompatible. He noted this was the third hearing (prior ones on September 24 and September 7). - The chair noted that the applicant requested another postponement. After hearing public comments opposing the change, the commission voted 8-0 to postpone the case to the October 22 meeting to allow the applicant to finalize agreements with residents. Article 10 – Eastside Area Plan Rezoning (PA-2025-116-054) - Planner Ashley Mills presented the proposal: 49 parcels changing from industrial to community commercial and 14 parcels from commercial/parks to light industrial, resulting in 67 total rezonings. The plan aims to protect residents from heavy industrial impacts per a City Council directive from February 27. 450 notifications were sent; 18-19 opposition letters were received; the local neighborhood association (UHIA) supports the plan. - The Zoning Commission had met the previous day (October 7) and recommended amendments: removing eight properties from the plan (keeping them as light industrial) and changing two others to light industrial. - Commissioners discussed the appropriate buffer between residential and industrial uses. Commissioner Orion favored light industrial along major corridors (Gimber Road) and community commercial adjacent to single-family homes. Others noted the need to balance business interests with community health. - Staff clarified that under the current proposal, nonconforming uses would be grandfathered but could be lost if operations ceased for a year; conditional use permits can be perpetual. Key Outcomes - Article 9 (Cross Mountain Trail): Motion to postpone to October 22, 2025, passed unanimously (8-0). - Article 10 (Eastside Area Plan): The first motion to approve the staff recommendation without Zoning Commission amendments failed (4 no – Commissioners Led, Orion, Bustamante, Peck; 3 yes – Izuki, Milam, Siegel; Sánchez and López not recorded? The roll call showed: Izuki yes, Mayron? (Milam) yes, Sánchez no, López yes? Actually unclear. The transcript says: 'Comisionado de Suki sí. Comisionador Mayron sí. Comisionado Sánchez no. Comisionado Izuki no. Comisionador Libre sí. Comisionado Mayron no. Comisionador Música Mante sí. Presidente sí.' It appears 5 yes, 3 no, but the chair said motion failed; likely a miscount. We'll follow the transcript: the chair declared the motion denied.) - The second motion, to accept the Zoning Commission recommendation with specific exclusions (removing 9.13 Paulson and 1039 Brussels from the plan, and changing 1030 Brussels and 639 Gambler to light industrial), passed (5-3? The roll call: Orion sí, López sí, Sánchez no, Izuki no, Led (?) sí, Mayron (?) no, Bustamante sí, Peck sí. So 5 yes, 3 no. Motion approved. - Meeting adjourned at 3:40 PM.

The Planning Commission met on October 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM to consider two major agenda items: a request for a two-week continuance on a plan amendment for a property at 8860 Cross Mountain Trail (Item 9), and a large-area rezoning and plan amendment for the Arena District/East Side community (Item 10). The meeting included extensive public comment, primarily opposing the Cross Mountain change and supporting the East Side changes with some property owner concerns. The commission granted the continuance and approved the East Side rezoning as amended to align with the Zoning Commission's recommendations. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (8-0, with Commissioner Bustamante recused for the vote) the combined hearing agenda items (items 3, 6, 9, 10 were initially on individual; items 3 and 6 were kept on consent). Item 2 and item 8 had been postponed. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 9 (Cross Mountain Trail): Voicemails from 7 residents opposed the plan amendment from low-density residential to community commercial. Speakers cited safety concerns (windy road, blind corner, speeding), traffic, noise, loss of rural character, decreased property values, and potential for commercial uses to expand. No one spoke in favor in person. The applicant requested a two-week continuance to finalize restrictive covenants with the HOA. - Item 10 (Arena District/East Side): Voicemails were split: 6 in favor (residents citing pollution, dust, noise, health concerns, and support for protecting neighborhoods from heavy industrial), 1 opposed (arguing for a 90-day delay to engage business owners). In-person speakers included: - Tom Roadie (KOA Campground owner): Opposed C2 zoning for his property, citing potential for 65-unit apartment development under new state law. Supported light industrial (L) or MHP with conditional use for campground. - Patrick Christensen (on behalf of property owner Dick Peacock): Asked for light industrial rather than C2 conditional use, arguing it would allow flexible leasing without repeated rezoning. - Cliff Sidanez (UHIA neighborhood): Strongly supported rezoning, emphasizing decades of dust, pollution, and health impacts. Urged approval without delay, noting past leadership failures. - Jesse Medellis: Highlighted historical racial discrimination (redlining) and deed restrictions, called for environmental justice and basic human rights. - Thaddeus Eigelhard: Supported rezoning, noted only six businesses never engaged, and urged approval to enable future development like the rodeo. - James McKnight (on behalf of 639 Gimbler owner): Asked for light industrial instead of community commercial, arguing it provides a transition zone and allows commercial uses. - LaQuira Santos, Roxanne Renfro, Velma Green, Veronica Sansei, Oscar Vicks, Alonzo Jones, Regina Williams: All spoke in favor of rezoning, citing personal health issues, dust, noise, and environmental injustice. Many opposed the zoning commission's amendments that would allow light industrial for certain properties (e.g., 639 Gimbler, 1030 Brussels). - Ken Brown (on behalf of a property owner on Paulson Lane): Supported elimination of I-1 and I-2 but argued community commercial is inappropriate; asked for light industrial to match existing uses and allow flexibility. Discussion Items - Item 9 (Cross Mountain Trail): Staff presented the request for a third continuance (previously heard Sept 24 and Oct 27? Actually Oct 27 is future? The transcript says

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee met on October 7, 2025, at 2:02 PM to discuss a one-year contract extension for the shared mobility program and to interview and recommend appointments for the Airport Advisory Commission. The meeting was chaired by a councilmember and concluded at 4:18 PM after an executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the previous meeting was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were registered to speak. Discussion Items - Item 3: Shared Mobility Program Contract Extension - John Stevens (CDOC) presented a recommendation to extend the contract for two dockless vehicle operators (the pilot began in 2018) by one year, and to initiate a new RFP for a two-year term with a one-year renewal option. Key program updates included: revenues grew to $73,000 per year, fines generated $175,000, and geofencing was prioritized to slow vehicles to 3 mph in sensitive areas (River Walk, Alamo Plaza, etc.). Committee members discussed the number of operators (2), the potential for adding a third to increase competition, comparative fees with other cities, and the need for accessibility outreach to people with disabilities. Councilmember Munguía requested that the disability community be included in future outreach. The committee voted unanimously to support the one-year amendment and the RFP process. - Item 4: Airport Advisory Commission Appointments - The City Secretary reported that 78 applications were received, 67 were eligible, and a shortlist of 10 candidates was developed by an ad hoc committee. The committee interviewed 11 candidates (some in multiple categories) including: Mark Provost, Ignacio Reyes, Dwayne Turner, Sha Curly, Marcia Handler, David Ansias, Brian Morris, Millanueva, Marco Morse, William Brandle, Jose Lerma, and Wilson Luong. Each candidate gave a 2-minute statement and answered questions about balancing competing interests, their skills, and the airport's role in the community. After interviews, the committee entered executive session at 3:49 PM and reconvened at 4:18 PM. The committee voted to recommend the following appointments to the full City Council: Dwayne Turner for the aviation industry and for the tourism and hospitality industry, and Ignacio Barros and José Lerma for the community category. The appointments are for terms ending March 2028. Key Outcomes - Item 3: Motion to approve the one-year contract extension and RFP process passed unanimously. - Item 4: Motion to recommend the listed appointments to the Airport Advisory Commission passed unanimously. The full City Council will vote on the appointments in a future session.

The San Antonio Zoning Commission convened on October 7, 2025, under Chair John Bustamante to consider a consent agenda, postponements, and individual rezoning cases. The meeting featured extensive public testimony, particularly on a large area-wide rezoning in District 2, and resulted in recommendations to the City Council. Consent Calendar - The commission approved a consent calendar consisting of cases 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 (as amended), 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 (as amended), and 20. The vote was unanimous after brief public comment, including opposition to case 4 (Tupperway Road) and case 16 (vehicle sales with service), and support for several other items. - Case 4 (Tupperway Road): Marlene Sawyer and Jessica Villalon expressed concerns about traffic, drainage, and construction impacts. Staff recommended approval and agreed to follow up with speakers. - Case 7 (1421 Austin Street): A voice message from Rose (neighborhood association) supported the change for a bar/tavern, noting parking issues had been resolved. - Case 16 (2155 Shavano Road): Olga Martinez opposed unless painting vehicles was prohibited; she supported conditional use for border vehicle CO only. - Case 20 (1021 Capitol Avenue): Support from the neighboring association for rezoning to R3. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 3 (area-wide rezoning, District 2): Over two dozen residents and business owners spoke or left voice messages. The vast majority of residents supported the rezoning from heavy industrial (I-2) to lighter commercial and industrial uses, citing decades of pollution, noise, and health concerns. Representatives from the United Homeowners Association and local community leaders advocated for change, emphasizing environmental justice and the need for safer neighborhoods. Several business owners opposed the change, arguing that the proposed C-2 or L zoning would restrict their operations, limit future tenants, and devalue properties. Specific concerns were raised by owners of an RV park, a transport company, a metal fabrication shop, and multiple warehouse landlords. The Stock Show & Rodeo also supported the rezoning. One caller requested a strategic pause for more information. - Case 18 (2710-2727 North St. Mary’s Street): George Turner (resident) opposed the parking lot and rezoning, citing existing neighborhood issues with drugs, trespassing, and safety. No other public comment. - Case 21 (4211 Commercial Avenue): No public comment. Discussion Items - Case 3 (area-wide rezoning): The proposal covered 104 properties, changing most from I-2 to C-2, C-3, L, or residential uses, with conditional uses to match current operations. Staff recommended approval. Commissioners questioned staff about business engagement, impact on existing uses, and the timeline. After extensive debate, Commissioner Losa moved to approve as recommended with an amendment to change six of the Peacock properties (1039, 1025, 1020, 1011, 1014, 1022, 1032 Gilbert, and 1039 Gilbert (amended)) to L (light industrial) with a specific use for vehicle warehouse. Commissioner Kelly and others expressed reservations about insufficient time for business negotiations and favored a postponement, but the amended motion passed. - Case 8 (401 Culebra Road): The applicant requested C-2 for professional offices but had no site plan. Staff recommended denial but offered an alternative conditional use. Commissioner Kelly moved to postpone to October 21 for the applicant to produce a site plan. Passed unanimously. - Case 10 (2830 Rigsby Avenue): The applicant sought C-3 for a warehouse/office to replace an existing car wash. Staff recommended denial due to inconsistency with the adopted Southeast Plan (which calls for C-1 mixed-use). Commissioner Hinojosa moved to postpone two weeks to allow further discussion. Passed unanimously. - Case 18 (2710-2727 North St. Mary’s Street): The applicant proposed rezoning to IDZ-1 and C-1 with a commercial parking lot. Staff recommended denial due to incompatibility with residential area and potential traffic impacts. Commissioner Kellan moved to approve. Passed. - Case 19 (600 Southwest White Road): Change from R-5 to C-2 for commercial use. Staff recommended approval. Commissioner Losa moved to approve. Passed unanimously. - Case 21 (4211 Commercial Avenue): Applicant requested MF-33 for eight apartment units. Staff recommended R-4 CD with four units as an alternative. Commissioner Hinojosa moved to postpone two weeks to obtain more community input. Passed unanimously. - Election of Vice Chair: Commissioner Hui was elected Vice Chair for the remainder of the term by acclamation. - Minutes Approval: Minutes of September 16, 2025, were approved with Commissioner Hui abstaining. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (all items as listed). - Case 6 (1015 Frio City Road): Postponed to October 22, 2025 (unanimous). - Case 22: Postponed to November 4, 2025 (unanimous). - Case 3: Approved as amended (6 in favor, 4 opposed) – recommendation to City Council for area-wide rezoning with modifications for six Peacock properties to L zoning with specific use. - Case 8: Postponed to October 21, 2025 (unanimous). - Case 10: Postponed to October 21, 2025 (unanimous). - Case 18: Approved (unanimous). - Case 19: Approved (unanimous). - Case 21: Postponed to October 21, 2025 (unanimous). - Vice Chair: Elected (acclamation). - Meeting adjourned at 5:52 PM.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee met on October 7, 2025, from 2:02 PM to 4:20 PM. The meeting covered a one-year extension of the dockless vehicle program contracts and initiation of a new RFP, as well as interviews and recommendations for appointments to the Airport Advisory Commission. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the previous meeting was moved and seconded, passing unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Dockless Vehicles Program (1-Year Extension and RFP): John Stevens (CCDO) presented the item. Since 2018, over four million trips have been taken with two current vendors (Bird and VO). Program revenues were approximately $373,000 per year, with FY25 revenue from ride fees ($175,000) and compliance fees ($146,000). The proposed one-year extension would maintain the current contract terms (2-year base + 1-year renewal, 1,000 vehicles per vendor). Staff sought committee endorsement for the extension and feedback to initiate a new RFP in summer 2026. Council members discussed community feedback on sidewalk clutter, geofencing (including sensitive areas like River Walk, Alamo Plaza), accessibility concerns (e.g., from Disability SA), competition among vendors, and safety records. Council requested a follow-up memo including a geofencing map, comparisons with other cities, and an analysis of adding a third vendor. The committee voted unanimously to endorse the extension and proceed with the RFP. - Airport Advisory Commission Appointments: Debbie Ruckstuhl (City Clerk) presented the background. 78 applications were received, 67 deemed eligible. An ad hoc committee shortlisted candidates. The committee interviewed 11 applicants in two-minute opening statements and three questions each. Applicants represented aviation industry, travel/tourism, business community, and community at large. After executive session (3:49 PM – 4:18 PM), the committee reconvened. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Minutes): Approved unanimously. - Motion 2 (Dockless Vehicles): Motion to endorse the one-year contract extension and initiate a new RFP passed unanimously. Item will go to full city council in early November. - Motion 3 (Airport Advisory Commission): Motion to recommend the following individuals to full city council for appointment through March 18, 2027, passed unanimously: - Airport Business Lease: Mark Provost - Aviation Industry: Doyle Turner - Travel and Tourism Industry: Wilson Luong - Business Community: Marcia Hendler, Brian Morris, Christy Villanueva - Community: Ignacio Reyes, Marco Barros, Jose Lerma - The meeting adjourned at 4:20 PM.

The San Antonio Zoning Commission met on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 1:01 PM at the City Council Chambers (overflow in the Tobin Room). Chair John Bustamante presided with a quorum present. The meeting focused on a large area rezoning (item 3) driven by the United Homeowners Improvement Association (UHIA), along with a consent agenda of 13 routine items, several continuances, and smaller rezoning cases. Over 100 members of the public attended, with extensive testimony both in support of and opposition to the large area rezoning. Consent Calendar - Items 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 (as amended), 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 (as amended), and 20 were approved by unanimous roll-call vote after no commissioner pulled any item. Staff read a summary of each: - Item 2: 18 notices, 1 in favor, 0 opposed. - Item 4: 80 notices, 0 in favor, 7 opposed. - Item 5: 31 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed. - Item 7: 23 notices, 0 in favor, 1 opposed; Government Hill Lions NA supports. - Item 9: 16 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed; Tobin Hill Community NA in favor. - Item 11: 38 notices, 2 in favor, 0 opposed; amended site plan submitted. - Item 12: 16 notices, 1 in favor, 0 opposed. - Item 13: 0 opposed. - Item 14: 29 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed; Government Hill Alliance NA in favor. - Item 15: 28 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed; Tobin Hill Community NA in support. - Item 16: 8 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed. - Item 17: staff recommended approval with conditions (egress to Collobar Park and Holy Cross Drive, 8-ft fence, hours 7AM-9PM, no external sound systems, no ingress/egress on L Drive). Applicant submitted amended site plan with those conditions. - Item 20: 24 notices, 0 in favor, 0 opposed; Beacon Hill Area NA in favor. - Public speakers and voicemails were heard on items 4 (Marlon Sawyer, Jessica Via Lone, Sonia Simmons) and 7 (voicemail in support). Voicemails also supported items 14 and 7. Public Comments & Testimony (Item 3 – Large Area Rezoning) - Residents (overwhelmingly in favor): More than 30 voicemails and 20 speakers urged approval, citing decades of dust, noise, truck traffic, pollution, and health impacts from heavy industrial (I2) zoning. Specific concerns included poor air quality, foundation damage, safety hazards for pedestrians and children at a nearby elementary school, and the historical context of redlining. Speakers such as Cliff Sedeno, Jesse Medeles, and Jacqueline Ali emphasized that the area was originally built for residential use and that I2 zoning was a longstanding injustice. Many called the rezoning a matter of basic human rights. - Business owners (mixed positions): - Tom Rhode (KOA Campground, 38 acres) requested his property be removed from the rezoning or given a manufactured home park designation with RV conditional use, arguing C2 zoning does not fit his camping cabins and could force him to build thousands of apartments. - Ken Brown (small warehouse owner) supported the rezoning in principle but asked for light industrial (L) instead of C2 CD on his property to avoid having to rezone for each new tenant. - Patrick Christensen (representing Dick Peacock, 10 addresses) opposed C2 CD because changing tenants would require costly rezoning; he requested L zoning. - James McKnight (Southern Warehouse District) requested L instead of C2 CD for oversized vehicle storage. - Others (Greg Obly, Keith Farmer) had soft objections; they feared losing operational flexibility. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Large Area Rezoning (Z 2025-107-00157): Staff (Ashley Lyell, Forrest Wilson) presented a plan to rezone 410 properties in the UHIA area from I2, I1, and C2 to a mix of C3, C3 CD, C3S, C2, C2 CD, R5, IDZ2, IDZ1, and RM6, with the goal of aligning zoning with existing uses and preventing new heavy industrial encroachment. The plan was initiated by a City Council resolution (Feb 27, 2025) and developed with a neighborhood task force. 454 notices were mailed; 104 in favor, 19 opposed; United Homeowners NA and Government Hill Alliance support. Staff held two community meetings in August. The proposal required 49 plan amendments to the Arena District East Side Community Plan (to be heard by Planning Commission Oct 8). - Commissioner Questions: Several commissioners (Woods, Chase, Hinohosa, Sipes, Bustamante) probed staff on outreach, the impact on existing businesses (e.g., KOA, warehouse owners), and the feasibility of L as an alternative. Chair Bustamante noted that I2 is inappropriate for the area (no current I2 uses) and that C2 CD and L recommendations would allow businesses to continue operating with expansion rights. - Friendly Amendment: Chair Bustamante moved to amend the motion to change the recommended zoning for 11 properties (Peacock’s 10 addresses plus 639 Gimbler) from C2 CD to L (light industrial), with 639 Gimbler also receiving a specific use authorization for oversized vehicle storage. Commissioner Lothef accepted the amendment. - Other Items: - Item 8 (4016 Culebra Rd): Applicant sought C2 for professional offices; staff recommended MF33 CD with conditional use. Chair Bustamante moved for a two-week continuance after the applicant lacked a site plan; approved. - Item 10 (2830 Rigsby Ave): Applicant requested C3 (from C2S car wash); staff recommended denial due to inconsistency with SA Tomorrow plan (neighborhood mixed use only allows up to C1). Commissioner Hinohosa moved for a two-week continuance to allow applicant to meet with District 2 staff; approved. - Item 18 (2619 N. St. Mary St): Staff recommended approval for IDZ1 on the St. Mary Street addresses but denial for the Rose Lane address (would require demolishing dwelling units for parking). Applicant argued parking is needed for businesses. After public comment from a neighbor concerned about crime, the commission approved (Commissioner Kellum motion, second by Hinohosa) with Dr. Kellum praising the applicant’s track record. - Item 19 (600 S. WW White Rd): Unopposed C2 request for an existing office; staff recommended approval. Commissioner Lothef moved approval; unanimous. - Item 21 (4211 Commercial Ave): Applicant sought MF33 for eight units on a quarter acre; staff recommended R4 CD with conditional use for four units. Commissioner Hinohosa moved for a two-week continuance to clarify neighborhood support and discuss density; approved. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved in a single roll-call vote (all items with amendments as noted). These cases now go to City Council with a recommendation of approval (must be heard within six months). - Item 3 – Large Area Rezoning: Approved with the friendly amendment to rezone 11 properties to L. The motion carried (7-3 vote, with Commissioners Rodriguez, Huey, Woods, and Chase voting no; all others yes). Case proceeds to Planning Commission (Oct 8) and City Council (tentatively Nov 6). - Continuances: Items 6, 8, 10, 21 were continued to the October 21, 2025 meeting. Item 22 was continued to November 4, 2025. - Item 18: Approved (Commissioner Bustamante voted no; all others yes). - Item 19: Approved unanimously. - Election of Vice Chair: Commissioner Huey was elected Vice Chair for the remaining term by acclamation. - Minutes: The September 16, 2025 minutes were approved as submitted (Commissioner Huey abstained). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 5:52 PM.

The Board of Adjustments (BOA) met on October 6, 2025, to consider ten agenda items including variance requests, short-term rental permits, and an appeal of a permit revocation. The meeting was conducted primarily in Spanish with interpretation. Key outcomes included denial of a short-term rental density exception, denial of an appeal of a permit revocation, approval of two fence variances, approval of a lot size variance, and approval of setback variances for a supportive housing facility. Two cases were postponed and one was withdrawn. Discussion Items - Case 3: Short-Term Rental Density Exception (2306 East Houston Street) – Applicant Jessica Flores requested a special exception to allow a Type 2 short-term rental despite exceeding the 12.5% density cap on the block (11 units, 2 existing STRs, would become 27%). Staff recommended denial. The applicant argued the rental would be well-managed and benefit tourism, citing $25 million in tourist taxes. No public comments. Commissioners expressed concerns about saturation of short-term rentals in the Denver Heights area. Motion to approve failed 2-9. - Case 4: Appeal of Short-Term Rental Permit Revocation (6215 Via La Cantera Unit 285) – Applicant Roman DePcosink appealed the city's revocation of his short-term rental permit for failure to file monthly tax reports since March 2025. Staff recommended denial. The applicant admitted to errors in reporting classification but stated they had corrected the issue. Commissioners noted the applicant had filed only 4 monthly reports over 14 months. Some supported leniency due to system confusion, but the majority denied the appeal. Motion to overturn revocation failed 6-5. - Case 6: Fence Material and Height Variance (1200 West Avenue) – Applicant Calvin Medrano requested variances to allow a corrugated metal fence and a height of 10 feet (instead of 8 feet) for security at a nonconforming tire shop. Staff recommended denial due to prohibited material. The applicant stated the fence was partially existing and replaced for security. The Los Angeles Heights Neighborhood Association opposed the material but not the height. The board postponed the case to November 17, 2025, for the applicant to discuss with the association. - Case 7: Corrugated Metal Fence Variance (23 West Buchanan Boulevard) – Applicant Jesus Torres Rey requested a variance to install a corrugated metal fence for security at an auto sales lot. Staff recommended denial. The applicant argued the fence would deter theft and that neighbors supported it. Three letters of support were received. Commissioners noted the fence height was 7 feet (within code) but the material was prohibited. The board approved the variance unanimously, citing security needs. - Case 8: Lot Size Variance (519 West Island Bolivar) – Applicant Gina Pérez requested a variance of 400 square feet from the minimum lot size of 6,000 square feet to build a single-family home on a 5,600 square foot lot. Staff recommended approval. Seven letters of support, no opposition. The board approved the variance unanimously, noting it would fill a vacant lot in the Roosevelt Park neighborhood. - Case 10: Setback Variances for Supportive Housing Facility (3038 Eisenhower Road) – Applicant Fei Hung (Steven G. Cook Engineering) requested variances of 145 feet from the maximum front setback (to allow 235 feet) and 30 feet from the minimum rear setback (to allow 10 feet) for a supportive housing facility for substance abuse recovery. Staff recommended approval. Two voicemails and two speakers (David Reed, James Becker, Roger Gabriel, Richard Airholde) expressed concerns about drainage, privacy, light, and noise. The applicant stated they would address drainage with underground systems and noted that the Oak Park Northwood and condominium neighborhood associations supported the project. The board approved the variances unanimously, noting that further approvals (zoning change, drainage review) would be required. Key Outcomes - Denied: Case 3 – Density exception for short-term rental (2-9). - Denied: Case 4 – Appeal of permit revocation (6-5). - Postponed: Case 6 – Fence variance to November 17, 2025. - Approved: Case 7 – Corrugated metal fence variance (unanimous). - Approved: Case 8 – Lot size variance (unanimous). - Approved: Case 10 – Setback variances for supportive housing (unanimous). - Cases 1 and 2 (address 275 East Commerce Street) were postponed; Case 5 (174 Brookshire) was withdrawn; Case 9 was postponed to November 3, 2025.

The San Antonio Board of Adjustments held a regular meeting on October 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM. Ten board members were present. The board heard ten agenda items, including postponements, continuances, appeals, and variance requests related to short-term rentals, fence materials, lot sizes, and setbacks. Key decisions included approval of a fence material variance, approval of a lot size variance for a vacant lot, and approval of setback variances for a supportive housing campus. A short-term rental appeal and a special exception request were denied. Consent Calendar - Items 1 and 2 (122 Vitcher Place and 235 East Commerce) were postponed. - Item 5 (174 Brookshire) was withdrawn. - Item 9 (2119 San Pedro Avenue) was continued to November 3, 2025. - A case from the previous week (BOA-25-1030160) was added to the October 20, 2025 agenda to allow it to be heard without restarting the process. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 8 (519 West Highland Boulevard): No public comment was received. - Item 10 (3038 Eisenhower Road): Two voicemails and two speakers were heard. - Debbie Reed (702 Thunder Drive) expressed opposition due to increased impervious surface and flooding risk, stating the setback is needed to mitigate flooding. - A representative of the San Antonio Quakers (705 Van Diver Drive) stated they are fine with the setback and zoning change but are concerned about runoff from the proposed parking lot potentially undercutting a drainage tube and causing tree falls. - Goggy Gabriel (319 Rainbow Drive) expressed concerns about privacy and security, requesting an 8-foot fence along the shared property line because current tenants smoke in the back and she wants to rent to families. - Richard Erholtz (235 Rainbow Drive) raised concerns about flooding, privacy, light pollution from light poles, noise from air conditioners, and security, noting his property adjoins the subject site. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Special Exception for Short-Term Rental (2306 East Houston Street): Applicant Jessica Flores requested a special exception to allow one additional Type 2 short-term rental, exceeding the 12.5% block face density limit (currently 18%, would become 27%). Staff recommended denial. The applicant argued the STR would support tourism and be responsibly managed. The board discussed density and neighborhood saturation. Motion to grant failed 2-9. - Item 4 – Appeal of STR Permit Revocation (6215 Via La Contera, Unit 285): Applicant Jitender Paul Singh appealed the revocation of his short-term rental permit due to HOT (Hotel Occupancy Tax) delinquency. He stated he paid taxes under the wrong category and assumed overpayments would roll over. Staff noted that filing reports monthly—not just paying—is required, and only four filings were made in 14 months. Staff recommended denial. Motion to grant the appeal failed 5-6. - Item 6 – Variance for Fence Material and Height (1206 & 1200 West Avenue): Applicant Calvin Medrano requested a variance to allow a corrugated metal fence and a 10-foot rear yard fence (vs. 8-foot max). Staff recommended denial. The applicant explained the fence provides security for the tire shop. The board suggested a continuance to meet with the neighborhood association (Los Angeles Heights, which opposed). The applicant agreed, and the case was continued to November 17, 2025. - Item 7 – Fence Material Variance (203 West Buchanan Boulevard): Applicant Jesus Touris Day requested a variance for a corrugated metal fence in the rear yard, already built to 7 feet. Staff recommended denial. The applicant stated the fence provides security and privacy, and neighboring properties also have metal fences. Motion to grant the variance passed 11-0. - Item 8 – Lot Size and Width Variances (519 West Highland Boulevard): Applicant Gina Perez requested variances for a 5,600 sq ft lot (required 6,000) and 40-foot width (required 50) to build a single-family home. Previous variances had expired without building permits. Staff recommended approval. The board supported the project to reduce vacant lots. Motion passed 11-0. - Item 10 – Setback Variances for Supportive Housing Campus (3038 Eisenhower Road): Applicant Faye Hunter (Stephen G. Cook Engineering) requested a 145-foot front setback variance and a 30-foot rear setback variance to develop a drug and alcohol recovery facility. Staff recommended approval. The board discussed drainage, lighting, and fencing concerns. The applicant noted the facilities would include a retaining wall and underground drainage. Motion passed 11-0. Key Outcomes - Special exception for STR (Item 3): Denied (2-9). - Appeal of STR permit revocation (Item 4): Denied (5-6). - Fence material and height variance (Item 6): Continued to November 17, 2025. - Fence material variance (Item 7): Approved (11-0). - Lot size and width variances (Item 8): Approved (11-0). - Setback variances for supportive housing campus (Item 10): Approved (11-0). - Continuance of sign variance (Item 9): Continued to November 3, 2025. - Addition of case BOA-25-1030160 to October 20, 2025 agenda: Approved.

The City of San Antonio zoning and land use session was called to order at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, with Mayor Jones presiding and a quorum present. The meeting addressed several zoning cases, including a controversial proposal for a cemetery and funeral home in District 3, as well as plan amendments and rezoning for residential developments in District 5. Consent Calendar - Items Continued: Items 2, 3, and 5 were continued to October 16, 2025, and item 11 was continued to November 6, 2025, by unanimous voice votes with no public comments or council discussion. - Consent Agenda Approval: The consent agenda (items 1, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12, 17, 18, 19, and 20) was approved by voice vote after item 6 was pulled for individual consideration. No items were pulled from the consent agenda prior to public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 6 (Cemetery/Funeral Home Rezoning): Multiple residents and community representatives spoke in opposition. Key points included: - Mary Ann Smith (Mission Delago homeowner, 40 years mortgage finance experience) opposed based on tax revenue loss (SCI has not paid $1.17 million in property taxes over four years on Sunset Memorial Park), oversaturation (250 cemeteries within five miles, four with available space, 60% cremation rate rising to 80% by 2045), and property value impacts (cemeteries reduce demand and resale values). She noted 900+ signatures opposing rezoning, but zoning office counted only about half. - Sylvia Rincon (family farms/ranches adjacent to site) opposed: property is in a rapidly growing area needing grocery stores, retail, medical clinics, and workforce housing. District 3 has 21 cemeteries, four within three miles, with San Jose Burial Park and Mission Burial Park South having ample capacity for 50 years. South Side ISD formally opposes. Rezoning would remove land from tax base, costing the city, school district, Alamo Community College, and University Health Systems. Noted SCI's $4 billion annual revenue and $209 million settlement in a Florida class action (2022) and $23 million California settlement (2024) for deceptive practices. - Maite Gudino Albidres (Mission Delago resident, mother of two) opposed in Spanish and English, citing reminders of death for children, lack of tax revenue for schools, chemicals from cemetery maintenance, and traffic concerns. She advocated for green spaces, playgrounds, and recreation areas. - Rosalia Gonzalez (Mission Delago) echoed environmental concerns (chemical residues, soil contamination, smells), traffic, and stressed the area does not need another cemetery with others 10-15 minutes away. - Brady Alexander (Hot Wells Mission Reach and Via Coronado neighborhood associations) opposed, arguing the South Side is marginalized, receives disinvestment (e.g., STD clinic moved to District 3), and that cemeteries perpetuate segregation. He noted the property is currently valued at $3 million, equating to about 1,000 typical Southside homes, and a cemetery would remove 12.5% of the tax base. He challenged the city's pattern of incentivizing inappropriate developments south of Highway 90. - Julian Cruz (real estate agent) opposed, describing residents as David vs. Goliath against SCI (a New York Stock Exchange company with 1,900 funeral homes/cemeteries). He cited procedural frustrations (continuances) and provided petition vote counts: within 200 feet – 2 in favor (property owner), 1 opposition (FM 1937 holding), South Side also opposing; outside 200 feet – 4 in favor, 467 opposed. He noted tenant voices excluded. - Ruth Rodriguez (Mission Delago) opposed: rezoning would remove nearly $2 million in annual tax revenue, worsen school overcrowding, create traffic congestion (6-9 a.m., 10 a.m.-2 p.m., evening), and lower property values. - Applicant Representatives: James McKnight (for SCI) spoke in support, presenting a map showing industrial and undeveloped land adjacent to the site, a site plan including a five-acre donation to the city for a library or civic use, $100,000 in scholarships via SoTex Foundation, internship opportunities, and a rendering of a park-like cemetery. He cited a Zonda study showing a heat map of new home starts and over 8,000 homes being developed in the area. Other SCI representatives (Abel Petas, Darren Somer, Brady Alexander) highlighted community events, local hiring (50+ team members), and Hispanic community engagement. - Items 15 and 16 (117 Raymond Street): Two speakers, Lucy Ardosco and Conrad Jarvis (applicants), spoke in favor of rezoning to build a single-family home on a vacant lot. Discussion Items - Item 6 – Cemetery/Funeral Home Rezoning (13297 FM 1937): Staff and Zoning Commission recommended approval (zoning change from R4 to C2NA CD for funeral home on 3.01 acres, and to R4S with specific use authorization for cemetery/columbarium/mausoleum on 69.08 acres, totaling 72.09 acres, with waiver of City Code Chapter 7 burial provisions). Notices: 10 mailed; within 200 feet – 2 in favor, 1 opposed; outside 200 feet – 5 in favor, 486 opposed. Council debated whether to consider factors beyond land use (e.g., company ethics, settlements). Councilmember White and Councilmember Corr argued to focus on land use; Councilmember McKee Rodriguez argued other factors (crime, jobs, environment, gentrification) are relevant. He asked about environmental contamination from necroleachate; applicant responded that drainage and groundwater would comply with regulations. Councilmember McKee Rodriguez noted support based on community benefits (five-acre donation, scholarships, improved fencing). Councilmember Via Gran (District 3) recognized the site's location between FM 1937 and highway, adjacent to industrial uses, and argued the cemetery is appropriate land use, noting the owner's right to develop and that housing/retail are not coming. She moved to approve. - Items 13 and 14 – Plan Amendment and Rezoning (301 East Fest Street): Staff, Planning Commission, and Zoning Commission recommended approval. Applicant submitted updated site plan addressing on-site parking and sound buffers. Notices: 38 mailed; within 200 feet – 7 in favor, 6 opposed (Lone Star Neighborhood Association not opposed); outside 200 feet – 13 in favor, 1 opposed. Councilmember Garcia moved to approve as amended; motion seconded and carried. - Items 15 and 16 – Plan Amendment and Rezoning (117 Raymond Street): Staff, Planning Commission, and Zoning Commission recommended approval. Notices: 41 mailed; within 200 feet – 1 in favor, 8 opposed (Collins Garden Neighborhood Association no response); outside 200 feet – 3 opposed. Opposition concerns about short-term rentals and commercial use were addressed: staff confirmed STR block-base at capacity and use is single-family home. Councilmember Castillo moved to approve, noting alignment with West Side Tomorrow plan. Motion seconded and carried. Key Outcomes - Item 6 (Cemetery/Funeral Home Rezoning): Approved on a voice vote (motion by Councilmember Via Gran, seconded). The exact vote tally was not recorded in the transcript; the motion carried. - Items 13 and 14 (301 East Fest Street): Approved as amended (motion by Councilmember Garcia). Vote: motion carried. - Items 15 and 16 (117 Raymond Street): Approved (motion by Councilmember Castillo). Vote: motion carried. - Consent Agenda (items 1, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20): Approved (motion and second). Vote: motion carried. - Meeting adjourned at 3:11 p.m.