Stan Donaldson

The meeting commenced with procedural items including an invitation and pledge of allegiance. Key discussions focused on the fate of the community building, where one resident argued for its preservation citing its historical significance as the "cradle of Texas" and potential for tourism, while another resident recounted the negative impact and financial strain incurred after their large party rental at the community center was abruptly canceled two days prior, seeking reimbursement for unexpected outdoor event expenses. The Council also recognized 2026 as the America 250 celebration year with a proclamation. Additionally, the Council adopted a proclamation honoring the life and service of Thomas Tom Chulowitz, a former Planning and Zoning Commission member and City Council member who recently passed away, detailing his military service and extensive non-profit and public service career. The consent agenda items included the approval of workshop and regular meeting minutes from December 9, 2025, the third quarter 2025 investment report, acceptance of an architectural design and engineering services contract addendum for the municipal building renovation, adoption of an elected and appointed officials handbook, designation of a public information coordinator, and adoption of an office of the city secretary policy and procedure manual.

The meeting included a presentation and discussion regarding the proposed expansion of Cornerstone Community Church located at 14740 Liberty Street, which is a designated historic landmark. Key discussion points involved the proposed building size (approximately 3,400 to 3,500 square feet expansion), material choices (the desire to use a metal building cohesive with the existing structure), tree preservation, and elevation changes due to lot slope. The commission and the church representative discussed previous approvals concerning driveways and paving, noting that the resurfacing fell under maintenance guidelines. Further clarification was sought regarding whether the expansion would require additional parking if the sanctuary capacity was not increasing. The commission also addressed a City Council request for clarification on the denial of a variance for the Montgomery Retail Development, specifically concerning minimum landscape setbacks and the preservation of the buffer area between commercial lots and residential homes, noting that the developer's engineer was aware of the requirements for landscaping restoration.

The meeting included opening proceedings with pledges of allegiance. The primary agenda items involved discussions regarding feasibility studies for two development proposals. The first was the Kaya Development Number 259, where the commission discussed options for zoning, including a special use permit versus full rezoning to commercial, and expressed concerns regarding traffic flow and drainage impacting neighboring properties, particularly due to existing ravines and roadway conditions on Cleer Street. The second item concerned the SR105 LLC Montgomery Retail Development (257), which is proposed as large box retail, restaurants, and stores within an existing commercial zone, with discussion focusing on projected utility usage and required utility extensions by the developer. Throughout the discussion on Item 4, commission members voiced strong reservations about granting a special use permit for commercial structures in areas zoned R1, and concerns over traffic safety due to existing road infrastructure and potential drainage issues affecting adjacent residences.

The meeting included convening a public hearing regarding funding for the design, fabrication, and installation of wayfinding signage within the city. The board also considered and acted upon the approval of the regular meeting minutes from September 16, 2025. Furthermore, the recommendation for the reappointment of Dan Walker, Casey Olsen, and Wade Nelson to two-year terms expiring December 31, 2027, was approved. A resolution was approved, not to exceed $850,000, for the design, fabrication, and installation of the wayfinding signs, authorizing the City Administrator to execute a contract with LED Partners contingent upon City Council approval. A significant discussion occurred regarding the revised scope of work for the downtown streetscape project, which now incorporates improvements around the community building, including paving and hardscape, to consolidate work and avoid private property issues. It was noted that the street configuration on Macallen street would transition to northbound only. The board also discussed looking into street lighting improvements for 149.

The meeting covered the consideration of the Chapter 380 economic development incentive agreement for a 30-acre commercial and multifamily development. Key discussion points included the proposed $4.0 million reimbursement to the developer (BCS) to cover infrastructure improvements such as extending water lines and sanitary sewer, and roadway work on CB Stewart and Buffalo Springs Drive. Members debated the extensive reimbursement, noting that the city would be covering 100% of the infrastructure costs, including retaining walls and detention pond requirements, potentially without revenue streams for 10 years, although projections suggested a payback within six years under ideal circumstances. The structure of the reimbursement tied to sales tax revenue over 10 years was reviewed, and it was noted that apartment complex development was locked in, while retail tenants were not yet confirmed. Furthermore, the body approved the minutes from the August 19th, 2025, regular meeting.