Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
22 issues with critical priority
Charter Review Committee
Members will look into potential funding sources to establish a dedicated committee budget for upcoming local projects.
Police Union Meet and Confer Agreement Amendments
The city and the local firefighters union are negotiating updates to their labor agreement, which shapes employment terms and public safety operations.
Interim City Attorney Employment Terms
Following the recent vacancy in the city attorney position, the council interviewed and appointed the law firm Davidson, Troilo, Ream & Garza as interim legal counsel.
FY 2027 Proposed Budget
The city council adopted a no-new-revenue tax rate of 41.56 cents and the FY 2027 operating budget, resulting in a modest $13 annual increase for average homesteads while funding staff cost-of-living adjustments and key street repairs.
Data Center Regulations
The city is reviewing potential legal strategies and regulations for data centers operating within the area.
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.
Castell Avenue Infrastructure and Drainage Improvements
Council authorized $9.6 million in certificates of obligation to fund critical drainage and roadway upgrades along South Castell Avenue, supported by EDC sales tax revenues.
City Attorney and City Manager Searches
City leaders are actively managing searches and evaluations for top administrative and judicial roles, including the City Manager, City Attorney, and Municipal Court Judge.
City Leadership Recruitment
Council is evaluating key leadership positions, including the Municipal Court Judge, City Manager, and City Attorney searches.
Project Maiden Economic Development
City officials discussed potential economic development agreements for Project Casa behind closed doors.
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.
2026 Ad Valorem Tax Rate
The city set its proposed property tax rate at the no-new-revenue level of $0.415613 per $100 valuation, resulting in a minor annual increase of about $13 for an average homestead.
FY 2026 Taxpayer Impact Statement
The city is required to show residents how their property tax bills will change under the new budget. This helps homeowners see exactly how much they might pay based on their county's median home value.
Commercial Design Standards
The commission is deciding if a car dealership should be allowed to bypass certain design rules meant to keep buildings looking good.
Police Deputy Chief Promotional Process
The Civil Service Commission reviewed and certified the promotional lists for Police Corporal and Police Lieutenant, ensuring that supervisory positions can be filled based on recent competitive exams.
Infrastructure and Growth
Residents expressed deep concerns about whether current water and sewer infrastructure can handle new high-density housing developments.
Police Department Headquarters Repairs
Residents and council members raised alarm over severe building defects, soil movement, roof leaks, and humidity at the 2019 bond-funded police headquarters, prompting demands for an independent forensic investigation.
ADA Accessibility Compliance
The city is working to make sure all public buildings, parks, and websites are accessible to everyone, regardless of disability.
Historic Landmark Designation for 533 N. Houston St.
Faced with a demolition permit, the commission stepped in to recommend historic landmark status for the property at 533 North Houston Street to protect it from being torn down.
Highway 46 West 38-Acre Residential Rezoning Proposal
Residents from Mission Hills Ranch strongly opposed a 38-acre housing rezoning project, citing severe traffic bottlenecks, water shortages, and strained sewer systems. Despite developer offers to upgrade lift stations, council ultimately voted down the request.
State Highway 46 Regional Expansion Support
City Council backed a resolution urging regional and state partners to prioritize and fund the massive $1.4 billion expansion of State Highway 46 between New Braunfels and Seguin. The project aims to relieve severe bottlenecks and improve safety along this critical corridor.