Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
26 issues in development
Park Development Projects Update
The commission will review progress reports on several local park development projects, including Chapel Park, China Spring Park, Alice Martinez Rodriguez Park, and Virginia DuPuy Park. These updates keep the community informed on local infrastructure and recreational space improvements.
Parks and Recreation Planning and Advisory
Staff will provide updates on fall athletic leagues, community center operations, pool fee structures, and major seasonal events like Waco Wonderland. These programs impact local recreation and community engagement.
Barron's Branch Public Improvements and Master Development Agreement
The council approved a master development agreement with Hunt Development Group worth up to $183.8 million to advance downtown revitalization and park infrastructure.
Cordova Springs Residential Redevelopment
The massive redevelopment of the former Floyd Casey Stadium site is moving forward with infrastructure completion and vertical home construction under way. The project introduces diverse housing types and price points to South Waco.
Subdivision Plats for New Housing
The commission approved new subdivision plats adding over 160 single-family lots in the Ritchie Road and China Spring areas, helping address local housing demand.
Poehls Addition Preliminary Plat Expansion
The commission reviewed and approved multiple subdivision plats adding dozens of new single-family and multi-family housing lots across Waco, supporting housing availability.
Residential Duplex Development at Speegleville Road
The commission is reviewing a proposal to build a 50-unit duplex community on 6.3 acres near Oak Road and Speegleville Road. This project involves rezoning land to a planned unit development, which has previously drawn scrutiny over density and drainage.
At-Risk Historic Properties and Demolition Trends
Commissioners discussed the continuous loss of historical structures in Waco neighborhoods, focusing on a specific home at 918 N. 13th St.
Trinity Heights Brownstones Development Funding
Pleasant Street Partners is asking for up to $1 million in TIF funds to help build a 12-unit condo project on Elm Avenue, promising at least $4.4 million in new capital investment.
TIF Zone Management
Waco plans to close out an unused 1986 tax increment zone, returning over $1.1 million to local taxing partners, while extending and updating TIF No. 4 to fund long-term projects like Riverway.
Placemaker Pro Mixed-Use Development Project
Placemaker Pro is seeking over $3.4 million in TIF and affordable housing funds to support a major mixed-use development featuring at least 150 residential units and 9 commercial units.
Melody Grove II RAD/Section 18 Redevelopment
The board approved submitting a financing plan to HUD to convert public housing assistance to Section 8 project-based vouchers for Melody Grove II.
Downtown Redevelopment Project & Master Development Agreement
The council approved a master development agreement with Hunt Development Group worth up to $183.8 million to advance downtown revitalization and park infrastructure.
Downtown Redevelopment Infrastructure
Get ready, Waco! Downtown is about to get a major glow-up with a big redevelopment project. Think new construction and a spruced-up Riverwalk. Big changes are coming!
Waco Surf Desperado Master Planned Community
Waco Surf is expanding with a massive new project featuring a second surf lagoon and 3D-printed homes by ICON. The council approved a master development agreement to guide this unique resort and residential expansion.
Short-Term Rental Regulation and Neighborhood Compatibility
Neighbors near Inverness Drive pushed back against a short-term rental special permit, arguing that commercial rentals disrupt the tight-knit, single-family character of their subdivision. Supporters highlighted the property's accessibility features for travelers with disabilities, prompting commissioners to continue the item for further neighborhood discussions.
HUD-Code Manufactured Housing Compliance
In response to recent state legislation under Senate Bill 785, Waco is updating its zoning code to allow HUD Code Manufactured Homes as a permitted use by right within Rural Estates (R-E) zoning districts.
Historic Landmark Preservation Commission Membership Criteria
To address recurring quorum challenges, the city proposed expanding residency requirements for the Historic Landmark Preservation Commission to include people who work in Waco but live anywhere in McLennan County.
Student Housing Development
Big changes are coming to West Waco with a massive new housing development called West Lake Village. This project could significantly alter the neighborhood's landscape and population.
2026-2027 HUD Annual Action Plan Funding
The city is planning how to distribute federal HUD grants for housing, homelessness prevention, and community development for the upcoming year.
Miguel House Boutique Hotel Development
Remember that old H-E-B building downtown? Get ready, because it's coming back to life! Garden City Grocery is reopening it, and it's going to bring more buzz to the heart of Waco.
Park Redevelopment
Get ready for a revamped Brazos River Riverwalk! It's closing down for a big upgrade, aiming to be finished by 2028. Expect a whole new look and feel for our riverfront.
Quiet Zone Construction
Tired of loud train horns at all hours? Waco's finally kicking off its quiet zone project to cut down on the noise. This means fewer disruptive train whistles echoing through town.
Economic Development Hiring
Waco's got a new economic development chief! This hire is all about bringing more jobs and businesses to the city. Let's see what fresh ideas they bring to the table to make Waco boom.
Housing Tax Credit Program Resolutions of Support
Three affordable housing developments requested city resolutions of support and policy waivers to apply for state tax credits.
Business Development Program
Waco's launching a new program to boost businesses along main streets. The goal is to improve storefronts and streetscapes, making commercial areas more attractive and potentially improving your daily commute.