Waco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
The Pines at Waco duplex development
A developer wants to build 24 duplex buildings (48 units) on about 6.3 acres near Oak Road and Speegleville Road, down from 25 buildings after neighbors raised concerns. The hearing was continued from September to allow revisions.
Demolition Permit Delay for 606 N. 15th Street
A scheduled review regarding a demolition permit delay for a property at 606 N. 15th Street was postponed due to the meeting cancellation.
City of Waco Equal Employment Opportunity Policy (ADM-1)
The committee reviewed municipal employment policies designed to ensure fair treatment, prevent discrimination, and protect workers who report violations.
Creekside Village Veteran Housing Phase I
Mission Waco is developing Creekside Village, where 15 percent of Phase I housing units will be reserved for veterans. The project highlights ongoing efforts to address veteran homelessness in the community.
Parks and Recreation Planning and Advisory
The commission reviewed updates on park developments, recreation programs, and budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year.
Park Development Projects Update
The commission was scheduled to review the upcoming fiscal year's budget priorities and ongoing park development projects across Waco.
Cordova Springs Residential Redevelopment
Developers and city staff provided an update on the massive Cordova Springs residential neighborhood at the former Floyd Casey Stadium site, highlighting diverse housing options and strong sales.
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.
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.
Trinity Heights Brownstones Development Funding
Pleasant Street Partners requested up to $1,000,000 in TIF funds to help build a 12-unit condominium project on Elm Avenue, bringing new housing and capital investment to the area.
Placemaker Pro Mixed-Use Development Project
Placemaker Pro sought $3,480,131 in TIF and housing funds to support a major mixed-use project featuring 150 residential units and 9 commercial spaces.
Melody Grove II RAD/Section 18 Redevelopment
The housing authority is considering a financing and redevelopment plan for Melody Grove II to convert public housing assistance into Section 8 project-based vouchers.
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.
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 new surf lagoon, community amenities, and 3D-printed homes. The City Council approved a master development agreement and sales tax sharing arrangement to support this unique tourist and residential destination.
Commission Meeting Schedule Adjustment
The commission discussed changing its regular meeting time, which could affect when residents and stakeholders are able to attend and participate in public proceedings.
South Terrace Management Transition and Construction
Management of South Terrace is transitioning to ResProp while construction-related matters are being addressed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2026-2027 HUD Annual Action Plan Funding
The board is reviewing the 2026 Annual Plan before sending it off to federal housing officials.
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.