The Bastrop Planning & Zoning Commission convened on November 21, 2024, to address several key issues concerning local development and environmental regulations. The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the presence of members, including newly appointed Commissioner Jeffrey Estes.

The session opened with citizen comments, where residents expressed concerns about proposed penalties for tree violations. Ian Rickard Watts, a local resident, advocated for stricter penalties, suggesting that the current fines were insufficient to deter developers from harming the environment. He proposed a scaling system for penalties that would increase with the severity of violations. Shannon Day echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for hefty fines to ensure developers prioritize environmental considerations over profit.

Debbie Moore, another resident, raised questions about the clarity of the agenda, noting that it indicated no actions or deliberations would take place despite the public hearings scheduled. She urged the commission to enhance transparency and public participation in the decision-making process.

Following citizen comments, the commission welcomed Jeffrey Estes, who shared his background as a real estate agent and former band director in Bastrop. The meeting proceeded to approve the minutes from previous meetings held on September 26 and October 30, 2024, with unanimous consent from all members present.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing community concerns regarding environmental protection and the need for clear communication from the commission to its constituents. The discussions set the stage for future deliberations on development regulations and community engagement strategies.