City approves controversial rezoning for industrial development

In a recent public hearing, the Socorro City Council discussed a proposed amendment to the city's master plan, focusing on the rezoning of a 5.49-acre tract located southwest of Alameda Avenue and Scove Road. The property, currently zoned as agricultural, is set to be transformed into an Industrial Commercial Mixed Use Development (ICMUD) zone, with a variance request to permit the development on less than the required 10 acres.

The hearing, which took place at 6:58 PM, saw no public speakers voicing support or opposition to the proposal, leading to a swift closure of the hearing at 6:59 PM. Following this, the council moved to adopt the ordinance, with a motion and second from council members.

Planning and zoning staff recommended approval of the rezoning and variance, noting that the area is designated for agricultural use on the future land use map. The planning and zoning commission had previously voted in favor of the request during their May 21, 2024 meeting.

The development, spearheaded by Stone Industrial, aims to construct two industrial buildings. However, due to jurisdictional limitations, only a small triangle of land within the city limits will be utilized for parking and ponding, while the larger buildings will be constructed outside the city limits. This decision was made to comply with setback requirements and optimize the use of space.

Council members raised concerns about the decision to place parking and ponding within city limits rather than the buildings, emphasizing the desire for increased tax revenue from industrial developments. The representatives from Stone Industrial clarified that the larger buildings could not fit within the city limits due to size constraints and regulatory requirements.

The council also discussed access points for tractor trailers, which will be coordinated with TxDOT, ensuring safe entry and exit from the property along Alameda Avenue, a state road. The meeting concluded with a unanimous approval of the rezoning request, marking a significant step towards the development of industrial commercial buildings in Socorro.