Lubbock Planning Commission rejects signage amendment favoring Raider Park Garage

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held on June 5, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas, focused primarily on proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC), specifically Amendment Number 31, which concerns signage regulations for multi-story buildings.

The meeting began with public comments opposing the amendment. Mr. Hernandez, a local resident, expressed strong objections, arguing that allowing larger signs for multi-story buildings would create unfair advantages for certain businesses. He referenced a legal case, Farr v. Tippett, to illustrate that the amendment could lead to piecemeal zoning, which conflicts with the city's comprehensive plan. Hernandez emphasized that the proposed changes would not ensure consistent signage regulations and could result in spot zoning, which is typically detrimental to community planning.

Grace Rogers, another resident, also spoke against the amendment, recalling her previous opposition to large banners on the Raider parking garage. She criticized the amendment as a "bait and switch" tactic that would undermine established sign standards and detract from the city's aesthetic appeal. Rogers highlighted the negative impact of large, distracting banners on the community and urged the Commission to uphold the UDC's standards to maintain Lubbock's visual integrity.

Chris Nichols, representing the owners of the Raider Park Garage, defended the amendment, stating that the Planning and Zoning Commission should focus on making recommendations rather than binding decisions. He reiterated the importance of considering all perspectives presented in previous discussions.

The meeting concluded with a clear division among speakers, with residents advocating for the preservation of existing sign regulations and representatives of the garage owners pushing for the amendment. The Commission's decision on whether to recommend Amendment Number 31 to the City Council remains pending, with significant implications for Lubbock's urban landscape and business environment.