The Bastrop City Council meeting on January 14, 2025, featured significant public opposition to the proposed demolition of a vintage home at 1005 Pecan Street, which is part of a plan for high-density multifamily development. Residents expressed concerns about preserving the character of their neighborhood amidst ongoing discussions about zoning regulations.
During the meeting, local resident Mr. Holford urged the council to impose a moratorium on new developments until a comprehensive development plan is established. He emphasized the need to protect the neighborhood's character and suggested that the existing structure should either be preserved or replaced without compromising the area’s integrity.
Another resident, Sam Callahan, voiced his objections, recalling the expansion of a nearby gas station that he felt negatively impacted the community. He highlighted that the proposed development of multiple duplexes at 1005 Pecan Street would be excessive and detrimental to the residential zoning of the area. Callahan argued that a more reasonable approach would be to allow only one or two townhomes, which would better buffer the neighborhood from commercial developments.
The council's discussions reflect a growing concern among residents regarding the balance between development and community preservation, signaling a potential shift in how future zoning changes may be approached. The outcome of these discussions could significantly influence Bastrop's urban landscape and the preservation of its historical character.