City Council Holds Hearing on Special Use Permit for Westlake Drive Bed and Breakfast

In a recent Taylor City Council meeting held on August 14, 2025, significant discussions centered around a special use permit (SUP) request for a property located at 2112 Westlake Drive. The council aimed to address procedural requirements and community concerns regarding the operation of a lodging facility without a full-time on-site operator.

The meeting began with the approval of a consent agenda, which included routine items that the council could pass with a single vote. Following this, the council turned its attention to the public hearing regarding the SUP. The property in question, approximately 5.716 acres, is currently zoned to allow lodging but requires an SUP for operations without an on-site manager. This request is particularly relevant as the property owner seeks to continue its use as a bed and breakfast while not residing on-site.

City staff clarified that the SUP would be specific to the current owner and would not transfer to future owners, lasting for a period of three years. This limitation aims to ensure that any future operations would require a new review process. During the discussion, council members raised questions about the implications of the SUP on local taxes and property designations. It was confirmed that the property would be subject to hotel occupancy taxes and would not qualify for homestead exemptions due to its commercial use.

Community feedback was also a focal point of the discussion. A letter from a concerned resident was presented, requesting a review of the SUP before its adoption. The council agreed to provide the necessary documentation to the resident for further consideration. Additionally, the property owner addressed the council, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining good relations with neighbors and ensuring the property is well-kept.

The council ultimately moved to introduce the ordinance for the SUP, which will be placed on the consent agenda for the next meeting, allowing for further public input and review. This decision reflects the council's approach to balancing community concerns with the interests of property owners seeking to adapt their business models in a changing economic landscape.

As the council continues to navigate these discussions, the outcome of the SUP request will likely set a precedent for similar lodging operations in the area, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between local governance and community needs. The next steps will involve further review of the ordinance and continued engagement with residents to address any lingering concerns.