Planning Commission approves large‑scale single‑family project at 11347 Beachside Drive

The Galveston Planning Commission unanimously approved a large‑scale single‑family home at 11347 Beachside Drive, including a fibercrete driveway, after a staff presentation and brief questions.

Staff described the property as Lot 908 in Beachside Village, Section 9, with single‑family dwellings adjacent and the beach and dune system to the south. The Bureau of Economic Geology (BEG) map cited in the packet rates this area as eroding at approximately 8 feet per year. Planning staff presented a site survey showing the north toe of the dune and said the project meets the city's dune protection plan requirement that less than 40% of the lot be impervious area for large‑scale dune projects.

Commission discussion was short. One commissioner asked for dune height; staff answered dunes in that section are roughly 8–10 feet tall. Commissioners also clarified that fibercrete maintenance is covered by a separate fee that provides cleanup funds after storms; staff said that fee (collected when fibercrete is used) is distinct from dune in‑lieu fees. Applicant Rick Sanford spoke briefly, identified himself as the owner and said he was "moving up from Colorado" and had no outstanding questions.

The commission voted unanimously to approve 25BF-012. Staff noted photos, surveys and project drawings in the packet and will continue standard permit review and inspections.