Red Oak Development's Tom Staub seeks approval for mixed-use project in Temple

The City of Temple held a City Council Workshop Meeting on May 1, 2025, focusing on several key agenda items, including property development, zoning issues, and community concerns.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding a duplex property owned by Mr. Lyle, who expressed concerns about the tax implications of living in one half while renting out the other. The council discussed potential solutions, including the possibility of converting the duplex back into a single-family home to qualify for homestead protections. This topic highlighted the complexities of property taxation and zoning regulations in the city.

Following this, the council moved on to the second agenda item, which involved reviewing regular meeting items. Notably, the council discussed a proposed development by Red Oak Development, represented by CEO Tom Staub. The development, located at 7040 Brookside Boulevard, has faced neighborhood opposition, which could trigger a supermajority vote requirement for approval. Staub indicated that the company might request to postpone the decision to address community concerns adequately.

The proposed development includes plans for small warehouse offices and retail spaces, with a commitment to improving the surrounding infrastructure, particularly Leitner Lane. The council noted that the development has been through multiple reviews to ensure compliance with city standards, including solid waste management.

Staub emphasized the project's potential economic impact, estimating the creation of approximately 200 permanent jobs. He also highlighted the importance of unique and high-quality retail offerings in the area, aiming to differentiate the development from existing saturated markets.

The council's discussions underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing development interests with community feedback. As the meeting concluded, the council acknowledged the need for further dialogue with stakeholders to ensure that the proposed developments align with the city's growth objectives and community needs.

Overall, the workshop highlighted the city's proactive approach to addressing property and development issues while fostering community engagement in the decision-making process.