Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
20 issues with high priority
FY2026 Financial Audit and Auditor Appointment
Auditor David Boring will present the agency's annual financial audit to the board. This review helps ensure financial transparency and accountability for the housing authority.
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.
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan Amendments
The Waco Housing Authority is proposing updates to its Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan. A public hearing is scheduled to allow residents and program participants to share feedback before the board considers final approval.
Residential Property Compliance
The commission will evaluate five additional properties—1905 Webster Ave, 1901 Connor Ave, 3900 Mockingbird Ln, 3316 N 15A St, and 2320 Ethel Ave—for building standards compliance.
Animal Shelter Capacity and Operations Review
The council approved $214,000 in continued funding for the Animal Birth Control Clinic to provide affordable spay and neuter services, pet food pantries, and vet care. Residents also raised concerns during public comment about animal dumping and stray populations.
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.
National League of Cities Endorsement for Council Member Barefield
The City Council expressed strong unanimous support for District 1 Council Member Andrea Barefield's national leadership bid, endorsing her candidacy for 2nd Vice President of the National League of Cities.
Advisory Board Annual Reports and Governance Review
With several board terms expiring, members discussed leadership succession, vice-chair selection, and the formation of specialized committees. These changes will help guide the museum through its upcoming expansion and strategic planning phases.
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.
Commercial and Residential Rezoning Across Multiple Corridors
Several rezonings were approved across Waco to allow for commercial expansion on Robinson Drive and China Spring Road, as well as multi-family and office spaces on Harrison Avenue, North 4th Street, and Gurley Lane.
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.
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.
Historic Preservation Workshop Planning
The city is planning a major community workshop for January to promote historic preservation, gather public input, and highlight at-risk properties.
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.
Board Quorum and Membership Stability
City staff highlighted several boards facing attendance challenges and frequent meeting cancellations due to a lack of a quorum, prompting council discussion on member outreach and reappointments.
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.
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.
Police Department Vehicle Lease Agreement
The city is considering spending up to $241,200 next fiscal year to lease ten undercover vehicles for police investigations.
Transit System Performance Review
Waco's asking for your input on how roads should be planned for 2025 and beyond. This is your shot to influence future transportation projects around the city.
Office Rezoning at 501-511 Herring Avenue
Get ready for new neighbors, Waco! The city just approved a rezoning that will allow for a new development with 63 homes in East Waco. This means more housing options are on the way.