PRESENTER: Presenter
Christopher J. Looney, AICP, Planning and Development Services Director
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SUBJECT: Title
Approval of the first reading of an ordinance regarding an amendment to Chapter 118 Subdivision Platting, Section 118-30. - Certificates and statements
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DEPARTMENT: Planning and Development Services
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: All
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Case No: ORD 24-414
Staff Contact: Amanda Mushinski, CNU-A, AICP-Candidate
(830) 221-4056 | amushinski@newbraunfels.gov <mailto:amushinski@newbraunfels.gov>
Chapter 118 Section 30 of the City’s Code of Ordinances requires a New Braunfels Utilities (NBU) signature on all applicable subdivision plats. This requirement was originally implemented to ensure that NBU reviewed and approved all utility-related aspects of plats within their service territory before recordation. While well-intentioned when originally implemented, the requirement now results in additional platting process time without added value, as utility reviews are now completed during earlier stages of the development process.
ISSUE:
The proposed amendment seeks to remove the NBU signature requirement. The signatures are currently required as part of the plat recordation process after the plat has been approved. NBU will continue to participate in the review process during earlier stages of platting or site development review (for plats in their service area) to ensure all utility-related requirements are addressed. This adjustment aims to streamline the plat approval and recordation process while maintaining comprehensive utility reviews and make the process consistent with other utility providers in the New Braunfels area.
The proposed amendment has been discussed with NBU representatives, who have expressed their support, noting that it will not impact their ability to ensure utility compliance.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN REFERENCE:
Action 1.11: Update policies and codes to achieve development patterns that implement the goals of this plan.
Action 3.6: Pro-actively provide a regulatory environment that remains business and resident friendly.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☐Economic Mobility ☐Enhanced Connectivity ☒Community Identity
☒Organizational Excellence ☐Community Well-Being ☐N/A
Community Identity Objective 2:
This code amendment advances goals of the LDO including streamlined processes.
Organizational Excellence Objective 2:
This code amendment solidifies cooperative relationships with one of our local utility providers to enhance service delivery.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Approval. This amendment will demonstrate the City’s commitment to fostering an efficient and responsive development review process, benefiting applicants, staff, and the broader community alike.
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on January 7, 2025 and unanimously recommended approval (7-0-0).