Houston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Houston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Special minimum lot sizes to protect historic neighborhoods
Wichita Street in Riverside Terrace and Roxton Road in Southampton both seek minimum lot sizes to prevent lot-splitting and out-of-scale development; both advanced to City Council.
Gas station density near McGowan Street
Midtown advocates are relieved the 801 McGown Street variance was withdrawn but warn it would be the fifth gas station within a quarter mile, near Metro Rail.
Gas Station Siting and Fire Safety Regulations
Residents and city officials are pushing for new rules to stop gas stations from being built right next to homes, citing health risks, noise, and declining property values.
Window Replacement and Life Safety at 3023 Del Monte Avenue
The board wrestled with how to balance historic preservation rules against modern residential building codes that require tempered safety glass and emergency egress for second-floor windows that extend to the floor.
Reserves at Park Place Gas Station Proposal
Homeowners and community advocates strongly opposed a proposed convenience store and gas station at Southmore and Live Oak, citing violations of historic deed restrictions, traffic congestion, and health risks from proximity to homes.