P&Z workshop studies River Haven zoning
The Navasota Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) held a Regular meeting and workshop Thursday, Jan 9, to discuss rezoning properties located in the River Haven subdivision on SH 105 West/Washington Avenue.
The properties are located in an area of River Haven annexed by the City of Navasota in 2009 and automatically designated A/O,Agriculture/Open Space district, per city ordinance.
According to Community Development Director Lupe Diosdado, no rezoning applications were ever submitted so the properties have remained A/O. Rezoning A/O properties to streamline the development process has been an ongoing project by Planning and Zoning for the last two years.
While the consensus of commissioners was to rezone 10 lots in one portion of the focus area to R-1B, Medium Density, Single Dwelling Unit, Quarter Acre Lot to encourage residential development, there was lengthy discussion about some additional properties that abut the highway. Input from both commissioners and property owners centered on the pros and cons of a B-1, General Business zone as opposed to a residential designation which could lead to the creation of a gated community of custom-built homes.
Property owner and real estate broker Lynn Hildebrandt pointed out that while there is ongoing residential construction in Navasota, there are no gated communities or opportunities for custom built homes – something Hildebrandt thinks home buyers are looking for and is a need that Navasota could fill.
Also present was Michael Havens who co-owns the development with his father and brother. Havens described the vision they had when they began developing the land 15 years ago, a vision which included a section for retirees and a small business park that might provide physician services.
Commissioners agreed a second workshop at which all three owners of River Haven could be present would be beneficial before taking any action.
Before adjourning, commissioners approved the minutes of the Dec. 12 meeting. Present were Dia Copeland who presided over the meeting, James Harris, Carolyn Katkoski, Patty Tokoly and Todd Wisner. Chairman Randy Peters and Dr. John Walla were absent. Community Development Director Lupe Diosdado was present on behalf of the City.
P&Z meets the second and fourth Thursday at 6 p.m. in city council chambers at 200 E. McAlpine Street. The schedule for city council, board and commission meetings is available at https://www.navasotatx.gov/boards.