Commission backs Old Town district standards changes to clarify setbacks and garage placement

The Haslet Planning and Zoning Commission recommended Oct. 29, 2024 that City Council approve amendments to the Old Town district standards (OT‑C Old Town Core and OT‑E Old Town Expansion) to align diagrams with text, clarify setback rules and revise garage-location options.

Staff presenter Mister Schwanke told the commission a publishing error in the ordinance graphics caused certain labels to shift; he said the original materials were approved and the current amendment mainly corrects and clarifies the ordinance's charts and wording. He explained front-yard measurements include a 25‑foot minimum from the back of curb plus a separate 5‑foot minimum from the property line rather than a single 25‑foot property-line measurement, which helps avoid creating nonconforming conditions for many existing Old Town homes.

The proposed change to detached garage placement moves the practical measurement to 20 feet from the back of curb so parked vehicles do not block sidewalks and a pedestrian clearway remains. Mr. Schwanke framed the changes as clarifications designed to "marry up the chart and the graphics" and reduce confusion for applicants and staff.

During the public hearing Old Town resident Sandra Smith said the area lacks an HOA and recounted recent neighborhood changes that she says have increased impervious surface and contributed to flooding at her home; she told commissioners, "I love my city," and asked staff to pay attention to enforcement. The chair and staff advised her to contact Public Works (Mister Tucker) for enforcement action and complaints.

Unidentified Speaker 1 moved to recommend approval of the Old Town standards amendment; the motion was seconded and announced by the chair as unanimous. The recommendation now goes to City Council for final consideration.