During a recent government meeting, the West Fort Alliance Neighborhood Association expressed conditional support for a proposed development, contingent upon securing nine votes due to significant opposition exceeding 20%. The discussion centered around concerns raised by local residents regarding a restaurant planned for the site, particularly issues related to smoke emissions.

Priscilla Camacho, Chief Legislative Industry and External Relations Officer for the Alamo Colleges District, voiced strong opposition to the development. She highlighted the potential health risks posed by smoke from the restaurant, which would directly affect the district's office located nearby. Camacho emphasized the need for a smoke scrubber, a solution previously implemented at the developer's Austin location, but noted the lack of written confirmation from the developer regarding its installation. She underscored that the health and safety of staff and guests were paramount concerns, overshadowing anticipated parking issues.

Ross Lawhead, a local resident and business owner, echoed Camacho's sentiments, stressing that while the neighborhood association's interests might differ, the potential for smoke pollution posed a direct threat to his property. He referenced a similar situation in Austin where residents faced legal action due to smoke damage from the same developer's establishment, ultimately leading to the installation of scrubbers. Lawhead's remarks highlighted the urgency of addressing these environmental concerns before proceeding with the rezoning request.

The meeting underscored the tension between community development and environmental health, as local stakeholders seek assurances that their concerns will be adequately addressed before any further action is taken on the proposed restaurant.