Waco · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Waco public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Historic landmark property improvements (1002 Webster Avenue)
The former First Baptist Church building is a designated historic landmark, so any exterior work needs a Certificate of Appropriateness from the commission. The applicant was seeking permission to make improvements to the building.
Certificate of Appropriateness for additional landmark property
A second landmark-designated property was the subject of a proposed improvement requiring the commission's review before work could proceed.
Coffee shop/café zoning definition
A proposed ordinance would define 'coffee shop/café,' allow the use in most commercial and office districts, and exempt coffee shops from the 100-foot alcohol buffer near single-family and duplex zoning — as long as alcohol stays under 25% of sales.
Commercial and Residential Rezoning Across Multiple Corridors
A 7-1 vote to rezone a corner at Garden Drive and University Parks to commercial raised fears that nearby office and residential parcels could follow. Staff argued the limited corner scope and remaining O-2 buffer prevent broader commercial spread.
Setback and Parking Variances for 920 Sherman Street
Property owners are seeking various exemptions from city zoning rules regarding yard setbacks and fence heights to accommodate new construction or site improvements.
R1C Small Lot Ordinance Amendment
The city is adding smaller 4,000-square-foot lot options with alley parking to R1C zoning to encourage diverse housing and get ahead of state-level housing trends.
Wilson Avenue Residential Rezoning Opposition
Neighbors successfully pushed back against a proposal to rezone a Wilson Avenue property for two-family housing, arguing it didn't fit the single-family character of their neighborhood.