The New Braunfels Planning Commission has pushed forward a rezoning request for a single-family residential development district at the corner of Kuehler Avenue and Coco Lane.
The details
The 5.14-acre property is currently zoned for single-family residential and two-family districts, which could allow a maximum of 76 dwelling units. Other uses allowed on the property include a community home, family home, adult and child care, public or private school or water pump station, according to the meeting presentation. The planning commission voted 5-2 to recommend the property be rezoned to a planned development district on June 2, with no short-term rentals.
Commissioner Angela Allen and Vice Chair Chase Taylor dissented.
The district, dubbed Kuehler Court Planned Development District, or KCPD, is a proposed 42-home residential development consisting of for-sale cottage homes and single-family attached homes. The concept plan indicates that there would be common areas and between 80-100 parking spaces.
Property owner Graham Weston said the project is designed to include various property types to accommodate different stages of life.
City staff recommended the KCPD because it is consistent with the city’s Envision New Braunfels Comprehensive Plan and encourages infill development with various housing types, Senior Planner Mary Lovell said.
Public input
Notices were sent to 34 property owners within 200 feet of the property. As of June 2, city staff received four responses in favor and 15 responses opposing the proposed development district.
Adjacent property owners D. Lee Edwards and William Biggadike said the project should enhance the area and improve property values.
Gene Forester, another property owner within 200 feet of the proposed development district, said the project would create additional traffic in an already congested area, according to agenda documents.
Michelle Urben, who lives close to the property, spoke in opposition. She said the proposed development does not reflect the character of their neighborhood.
“The density, design and layout are inconsistent with its surrounding properties, which raises concerns about maintaining the aesthetic and community,” Urben said.
Tom Hovestadt, another resident who lives near the proposed project, said he respects property rights and would rather have “almost anything” except 20 duplexes.
“I’m all for it. I think private ownership is the way to go. I think the concepts are very fantastic,” Hovestadt said during the planning commission meeting.
Looking ahead
The rezoning will be presented to the City Council for consideration at a future meeting.
