Commission Approves Zoning Assigned to Newly Annexed Properties on First Reading

Water meter & Installation Chart update under consideration and Council explores the option of a TIRZ Zone for Los Fresnos

City of Los Fresnos Commissioners approved proposed zoning codes for the newly annexed properties at their regular meeting held Tuesday, March 12. Zoning is normally put in place by a municipality to ensure that private land is used in a manner that enhances the quality of life, promotes growth and development while preserving and protecting the environment.

Recently annexed into the city, properties on West 10th Street and Mesquite, north of Resaca Escondida, Whipple Road from the railroad tracks to the current city limits, Longhorn Lane and Escalante Road north have been designated R-1 Residential and East 1st Street received a R-3 and R-4 code for multi-family dwellings. The old Willms property on north Arroyo and Whipple Road was designated for agricultural use. Property located on the southwide of Highway 100 back to the canal, the northside of Highway 100 to Longhorm Lane and FM 1575 north and 200 feet down Escalante Road were proposed as C-2 Commercial.

The changes will not be finalized until after the second reading scheduled at the next meeting of the council.

During the annexation process, many residents asked if their addresses would change. The commissioners agreed to make no changes at this time.

Commissioners also approved the first reading of a new ordinance that would adjust Water Meter and Installation fees. With no adjustment in costs since before 2004, City Manager Mark W. Milum explained that the fees had fallen behind the costs of the equipment and installation. Proposed cost for a 3/4” tap and meter would be $600. Milum noted costs in other Valley cities and said it was very competitive. A discussion was also held on the water expansion and sewer connection fees. A final decision is expected at the next commission meeting.

Lance Elliott of TIP Services of South Texas explained the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone TIRZs in the City of Los Fresnos during a workshop at the regular meeting of the commission.

Cities and counties create these special districts to encourage new investment in areas that otherwise might not attract development. When developers make improvements, property values increase. In a TIRZ, the taxes on the increase in property values are set aside to finance public improvements in the zone.

No action was taken at the meeting, however, the commission asked to receive more information on the formation of the TIRZ.
The next meeting of the city commissioner is set for Tuesday, April 9 at 7 p.m.