MELISSA DE LOS SANTOS
Special to the NEWS
On October 17, 2023, the City of San Benito City Commission held its regular meeting. One of the items up for discussion was to rezone a property located at the intersection of Williams Rd. and Russell Lane from AO Agricultural to SSF Two Duplex Residential. There was also a public hearing for this line item that resulted in three speakers that live near the property in question.
The first to speak was Jose Morales. Morales stated that although he resides outside of a 200-foot radius of the property, creating a duplex subdivision would impact more than just the homes within that radius. He would like a mile radius to be considered instead. Morales shared that he bought his house on Comfort Lane because of the proximity to schools and hospitals and saw it as an investment for his future and his children’s futures. Morales made it clear that he would like San Benito to grow but believes the City can achieve that growth by building $250-$450,000 homes and housing homeowners with high incomes.
Next to speak was Melanie Dimas, who has resided on Russell Lane for over 50 years. According to Dimas, home ownership in Texas is decreasing at all income levels because investors are buying properties, and nothing is left available for individuals. Dimas estimated that if the duplexes are built on the 42-acre property, there will be 350-400 people living there, increasing traffic in the area. Dimas added that she would like Russell Lane to be kept the quiet, united neighborhood it has always been.
Last to speak for the Public Hearing was Lawrence Drake. Drake, who was a farmer for 14 years, brought up the topic of water for a growing population by stating, “Nobody thinks about water until they turn on the faucet and it doesn’t work.” He believes that limiting the number of people in subdivisions will prevent the water supply from being depleted.
After the Public Hearing, Commissioner Thomas Goodman thanked the speakers for their comments. While he understands the importance of raising property values, he also knows that in order to keep people in San Benito, they need to be able to afford those homes. He asked the developers to address their intent for the development.
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