Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Marcos public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues with high priority
New VA Outpatient Clinic on Wonder World Drive
The commission approved the city's first business park zoning designation to clear the way for a major new VA clinic. Local veterans and advocates celebrated the project, noting it will save aging and mobility-impaired veterans long, difficult trips to VA hospitals in Austin or Temple.
La Sima Master-Planned Community Expansion & Open Space
The continued expansion of the La Sima development through multiple zoning requests highlights resident concerns regarding open space, parkland commitments, and impervious cover over the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.
E-scooter Program
San Marcos just approved a new e-scooter program, so expect more rentable scooters zipping around downtown soon. The city hasn’t spelled out the rules or costs yet, but the big question is whether it can keep sidewalks safe and scooter clutter under control.
Transit-Oriented Development Implementation (SB 79)
The city is moving ahead with zoning standards and site exemptions to comply with Senate Bill 79 for transit-oriented development.
Redwood/Rancho Vista wastewater connection
A community advocate described parasite exposure from failing septic systems and asked the city to help connect the neighborhoods to the new wastewater plant; residents are in Guadalupe County but have a San Marcos address.
Riverstone affordable housing tax exemption
An existing 336-unit affordable complex asked to sell to the Texas Housing Foundation and go off the tax rolls in exchange for ~$100,000/year. The council said no, citing a ~$500,000 annual loss to the school district; the owner warned the property could be foreclosed on, eliminating affordability restrictions.
CDBG and HSAB funding gaps
Nonprofits asked for $1.7 million but only $750,000 in HSAB funds exist; eviction prevention, meals and shelter needs are far exceeding capacity. Council adopted the CDBG plan and will revisit HSAB in September.
Sedona South 643-acre development
A major new single-family community near SH 123/FM 1978 with parks, trails and a donated wastewater plant site. Neighbors worry about road widening taking front property and unknown construction timelines.
FM 1978 water reclamation facility
Council approved the $42 million next design-build phase and $2.55 million in electric facilities for the new wastewater plant — the same plant Redwood/Rancho Vista residents hope to connect to.
Development Impact and User Fee Adjustments
The city updated various development and user fees to account for inflation and operational costs.
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Appropriations Limit
The council established the annual spending limit for the upcoming fiscal year, ensuring compliance with state requirements.
Police Accountability and Transparency
Multiple residents and family members spoke out demanding full accountability, release of records, and policy reforms following the controversial March 14 arrest of Gerardo Reyes Gonzalez and Esteban Reyes.
Downtown Student Housing and Density
The Planning Commission reviewed a major student housing project and height waiver on North Comanche Street. Residents and commissioners debated whether adding high-density student apartments aligns with the downtown plan's goal of encouraging family-friendly, non-student housing.