Neighbors voice concerns over proposed bed and breakfast on Alexander Road

In a recent Cooke County Commissioners Court meeting, community members voiced strong opinions regarding a proposed variance for a property on Alexander Road, highlighting concerns about the potential impact on the rural character of the area. The meeting, held on July 10, 2025, featured passionate testimonies from local residents, reflecting a divide between those in favor of the variance and those opposed.

Andrew Blicken, a neighboring landowner, expressed his deep concern about the proposed commercial use of the property, emphasizing that the rural lifestyle was a primary reason for his family's relocation to Cooke County. He argued that any deviation from agricultural use would disrupt the tranquility and safety of the area, which is currently characterized by its agricultural and residential zoning.

Lisa Wilcox, also a resident of Alexander Road, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining the agricultural integrity of the land. She raised concerns about the safety implications of increased traffic and transient populations associated with a bed and breakfast operation, suggesting that it could compromise the neighborhood's security.

Conversely, Navia Viramajaneni, the property owner seeking the variance, defended her plans, stating that the development would not interfere with the Army Corps of Engineers' regulations and would enhance the local landscape. She assured the court that the property would serve as her primary residence, which she argued would contribute positively to the community's safety and aesthetics.

Bonnie Parker, another local resident, raised additional concerns about the potential for increased noise and traffic, questioning the long-term implications of allowing a special use permit for a property that has historically been zoned for agricultural and residential use. She highlighted the lack of essential services, such as city water and sewer systems, which could complicate the proposed use of the property.

The meeting also featured comments from Don Dean, a long-time landowner in the area, who acknowledged the growth in the community but emphasized the need for responsible development that respects the existing rural character. He expressed frustration over perceived biases in the opposition to the variance, suggesting that some objections stemmed from personal conflicts rather than genuine community concerns.

As discussions continue, the Cooke County Commissioners Court faces the challenge of balancing the desires of residents for maintaining the rural lifestyle against the rights of property owners to develop their land. The outcome of this variance request could set a precedent for future developments in the area, making it a critical issue for the community. The court is expected to deliberate further on the matter, weighing the diverse perspectives presented during the meeting.