BY ZARA FLORES
What you need to know
What’s being done
In the months since Flores-Cale brought her development and water concerns to the dais, cities have taken steps to boost water diversity and drive projects that fall in line with development standards.
Chapter 212 of the Texas Local Government Code states that a municipality can adopt a mor- atorium on property development if it is justified by a shortage of essential public facilities, such as water. Moratoriums can also be enacted if other city services, such as the police or fire depart- ment, are in dire need of help, or if it’s proven that regulations or new ordinances on existing projects would not outweigh the effects of new developments. Legally, cities only have so much power when it comes to regulation, Flores-Cale said—and with the influx of new residents—developments continue on to provide housing, restaurants, retail and other services. The last time a moratorium was enacted in the city of Kyle was in 2002, as a result of extreme drought conditions and water strain. However, Dripping Springs had a moratorium in place during the latter part of 2022 due to a lack of wastewater capacity.
Taking control City officials only have so many options when it comes to being able to regulate or steer projects and developments, Flores-Cale said.
Development agreements City officials can meet and negotiate with developers to come to an agreement regarding the project, regardless of zoning. This is more of a collaborative process that involves compromise. Zoning Land privately owned may be rezoned through the city; however, the planning and zoning commission or City Council must approve the request. • Example: A parcel of land zoned for industrial would need to be rezoned to build residential homes, and vice versa.
With little land left, Buda officials are picky when it comes to approving developments and have approved 0 since 2022.
The city of San Marcos is working on its Vision SMTX++ comprehensive plan, which is set to drive and change the landscape and zoning of the city.
Kyle anticipates 5% of population growth annually for the next several years so officials will be increasing impact fees charged to developers by about 50%.
Looking ahead
What’s in store The passage of SB 28 will result in a myriad of projects throughout the state to bolster its water infrastructure and needs. Funding will go toward: Permit-ready water infrastructure projects Water conservation awareness programs Heightened focus on small, rural communities
The board will be responsible for tackling the state’s “failing infrastructure,” bill author Sen. Charles Perry said. “[SB 28] creates a pathway for funding water projects that our grandkids will be around for,” Perry said. “Future members of this body will be reminded about how important water is to this state.”
Following the Nov. 7 election, voters approved Senate Bill 28, which will provide billions of dollars for water resources and will fund state infrastructure improvements through the Texas Water Development Board. The board collects water-related data, assists with water supply planning, and runs programs for water-related projects.
SOURCE: TEXAS SENATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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