Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
18 issues in development
Park at Dogwood Affordable Housing Impact Fee Waiver
The board is scheduled to consider spending up to $500,000 to improve the Park at Dogwood under state economic development rules.
Historic District Alteration and Demolition Requests
The Historic Landmark Commission is reviewing multiple requests for property alterations, sign installations, window replacements, and a potential structure relocation or demolition within local historic districts. These cases test how the city balances property owner needs with preserving historic architectural character.
CTTC Building Tenancy
Members will discuss upcoming tenancy arrangements for the CTTC building to support educational and workforce programs.
Manufactured Home Zoning and Non-Conforming Use
Sun Retreats requested a rezoning from C-3 to C-3 SUP to legalize 10 manufactured homes placed on their property. Surrounding neighbors strongly opposed the move, citing neighborhood character and illegal permit issuance, prompting the council to postpone the decision.
Residential Accessory Structure Setbacks
Homeowners requested setback variances to accommodate carports due to narrow lot layouts and lack of rear or side vehicle access.
Land Acquisition for Economic Development
The city is looking at spending $4.6 million to buy nearly 7 acres of land, which could be used for future economic growth projects.
Affordable Housing Modernization
Council rejected a $500,000 NBU impact fee waiver for a 76-unit affordable housing project, preferring to explore funding through the Economic Development Corporation to protect utility ratepayers.
Downtown Housing and Public Incentives
Local businesses received funding support for improvements, and an extension was granted for lagging projects.
Infrastructure and Growth
Residents expressed deep concerns about whether current water and sewer infrastructure can handle new high-density housing developments.
Gruene Road Land Acquisition
The EDC is considering buying 6.7 acres of land near Gruene Road to control future development. Residents are concerned about the cost and whether the city should be acting as a land speculator.
NBPL Five-Year Plan Endorsement
The board endorsed the library's new five-year strategic plan to guide future development and services.
Mayfair Master District Revenue Bonds and Infrastructure Financing
The council discussed and approved a bond issuance for road facilities in the Mayfair development, prompting questions from residents about total debt caps and developer reimbursements.
Kuehler Court Rezoning
Developers want to build 42 small cottage homes on 5 acres. Neighbors are worried about traffic, density, and the inclusion of short-term rentals.
Dittlinger Mill Redevelopment
The city is moving forward with a major plan to turn the old mill into a mixed-use area with housing, a hotel, and a parking garage. It's a big step toward revitalizing downtown and connecting it to the river.
Commercial Parking and Driveway Variance (330 Kessler Street)
A new ultrasound clinic needs to use crushed granite for parking and keep a narrow driveway. The board approved this to help the business open while protecting drainage.
Brauntex Theatre Digital Marquee Upgrade
The Brauntex Theatre wants to replace its static marquee with a digital one. The commission debated how to balance modern visibility and safety needs with preserving downtown's historic look before approving it 6-1.
Civic/Convention Center Expansion
The city is looking at expanding the convention center to attract more regional events. The goal is to make New Braunfels a bigger player in the convention market, which could bring in more visitors and tax revenue.
Telecommunications Tower at Fire Station No. 4
A new 150-foot cell tower is planned for the local fire station. While it aims to fix poor cell service in the area, some are worried about the health effects of having a tower so close to where firefighters sleep.