Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
32 issues with high priority
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.
2026 Roadway Impact Fee Rate Review
Staff presented a multi-year financial audit required by state law to account for how roadway impact fee funds have been collected and spent.
Comal and Guadalupe Counties Workforce Study
The alliance will review the ongoing workforce study covering Comal and Guadalupe Counties to help align local education and training programs with regional job market demands.
Northwest Park Lease Agreement
The council approved a lease agreement with the NBEDC to open primitive natural-surface trails at a newly acquired 130-acre park site, providing much-needed green space and recreation opportunities in northwest New Braunfels with volunteer help.
Economic Development Negotiations with Gener8tor
The council is considering a $1.125 million economic development investment in a multi-year entrepreneurship incubator project led by Gener8tor to support local startups.
Solid Waste Residential Services Rate Adjustments
The City Council will review proposed adjustments to residential solid waste service rates, which could impact monthly trash and recycling bills for local households.
City Executive Leadership Search & Real Estate Lease
The City Council is evaluating candidates and defining the duties for key executive leadership roles, specifically the City Manager and City Attorney. These positions direct city staff, oversee municipal operations, and manage city legal affairs.
Pahmeyer Road Traffic Calming
The board will consider recommending traffic calming measures between Broadmoor Drive and McQueeney Road to help manage vehicle speeds and improve neighborhood safety.
Short-Term Rental Zoning
Residents pushed back against placing commercial zoning and short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods, successfully defeating a proposal on Fieldcrest. Commissioners agreed that spot zoning single lots to commercial in housing areas disrupts community character.
Police Officer Psychological Examination Standards
The commission will consider updates to the psychological exam parameters for beginning police officers to ensure proper screening for candidates.
Firefighter Drug Use Disqualification Guidelines
The commission is reviewing proposed clarifications regarding drug use disqualifications for entry-level firefighter applicants.
Citywide Pedestrian Improvements and Sidewalk Gaps
The city is leveraging federal AMPO grants and EDC funds to design and construct sidewalk gap closures and pedestrian safety enhancements near schools and major corridors.
Code Amendments for Unimproved Parking, Sidewalks, and Drainage
Staff proposed new rules to crack down on parking on grass, allow escrow payments instead of installing sidewalks during permitting, and clarify drainage plan requirements for large homes.
FY 2027 Reinvestment Zone and Development Authority Budget
The board reviewed and approved the proposed budget and funding allocations for fiscal year 2027, determining how tax increment and authority funds will be distributed for local improvements.
Automated License Plate Reader Program
Police Chief Flores presented 2025 crime stats showing a 5% overall crime reduction and discussed independent third-party audits verifying strict privacy compliance for License Plate Readers.
Entrepreneurship Incubator Program
The city is considering a $1.2 million Economic Development Corporation investment in Gener8tor to support local business startups over multiple years.
Lake Front Avenue Speed Limit
Residents near Lake Front Avenue raised concerns about dangerous speeding and pedestrian safety issues. The board responded by recommending a speed limit reduction to 25 mph.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Network Plan Adoption
The board reviewed ongoing plans to improve walking and biking routes across the city.
Drought Irrigation Surcharges
City council adopted stricter drought stage triggers and surcharges while allowing once-a-week watering through stage five, sparking debate over water conservation and resident utility bills.
Rezoning Request for Sun Retreats Texas Hill Country (141 Rueckle Road)
Sun Communities requested a rezone to C-3 SUP to legalize ten manufactured homes, drawing strong opposition from neighboring residents over precedent and neighborhood character.
Signage Regulations and Alternative Plans
A developer requested a larger multi-tenant monument sign for a light industrial flex-space project, offering to remove an existing billboard in 2031 as a trade-off.
Carport Variance in Mill Street Historic District (586 West Mill Street)
Property owners want to build a detached carport that encroaches 2 feet into the side setback in a historic neighborhood. The board must weigh the homeowner's needs against historic preservation guidelines.
Residential Accessory Structure Setbacks
Homeowners requested setback variances to accommodate carports due to narrow lot layouts and lack of rear or side vehicle access.
2027 River Season Fees and Ordinance Changes
The committee is gearing up to discuss potential changes to river user fees and local ordinances ahead of the 2027 season, which could impact how locals and tourists experience the rivers.
Airport Financial Sustainability
The board discussed a proposal to forgive an airport loan, allowing funds to be reinvested directly into airport operations and infrastructure expansion.
Road Infrastructure Financing
City staff presented upcoming infrastructure and transportation projects aligned with the economic development corporation's strategic priorities.
Comal River Master Plan Funding
The EDC is considering providing financial support for the Comal River Master Plan, which aims to guide future improvements and management of the river area.
Parks and Recreation Strategic Master Plan
The city is updating its master plan for parks. This plan will decide what new parks or programs we get in the future.
Land Purchase Feasibility Extension for 6.7 Acres
The board extended the feasibility period on a 6.7-acre land contract to allow time for public workshops and City Council guidance on whether to proceed with purchase or sell the land.
Property Acquisition and Utility Infrastructure Easements
The council authorized eminent domain to acquire a utility easement at 470 Rio Drive for critical sewer system and lift station upgrades.
High School Stadium Traffic and Parking Management
The council established new parking restrictions around the newly opened Long Creek High School stadium to protect residential neighborhoods from event congestion.
Downtown Managed Parking Program
Residents and business owners shared concerns and suggestions regarding the downtown managed parking program, prompting council to direct staff to study resident passes and validation options.