Community Members Oppose Benbrook Floodplain Development and Rezoning Proposal

During a recent Benbrook City Council meeting, residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed rezoning and development project along Mary's Creek, raising significant concerns about public safety and environmental impact. The proposal aims to convert 80 acres of land into 170 residential lots, a plan that critics argue poses serious risks due to its location within a floodplain.

Community members highlighted that the development would increase housing density to four to six homes per acre, which is more than double the density of surrounding neighborhoods. They expressed alarm over the potential for increased flood risks, citing that the area already experiences flooding during significant rainfall events. Residents emphasized that the proposed changes to the creek, including widening it by 60 feet, could exacerbate flooding and erosion, pushing risks onto neighboring properties.

Carissa Weitzel, a local resident with expertise in underground utilities and floodplain management, articulated the dangers of altering the natural flow of the creek. She pointed out that the proposed modifications could destabilize the creek banks and increase flood velocities, leading to greater erosion and potential damage to homes. Weitzel urged the council to prioritize safety over development pressures, warning that approving the rezoning could have long-lasting consequences for the community.

Other residents echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of preserving the existing natural landscape, including native trees and grasses that play a crucial role in flood mitigation. Amberlee Mullins, another local resident, argued that removing established vegetation would lead to greater flooding and erosion, undermining the ecological balance of the area.

The council meeting also featured concerns about the lack of comprehensive studies and independent reviews before moving forward with the rezoning. Critics pointed out that no civil engineering plans had been submitted, and the necessary federal approvals from FEMA were still pending. This raised questions about the decision-making process and the potential for inadequate oversight.

As the council deliberates on the proposal, residents remain vigilant, emphasizing that their voices and concerns must be considered in any decisions that could impact their safety and the environment. With over 2,400 signatures on a petition opposing the development, the community is united in its call for responsible land use that prioritizes public safety and environmental preservation. The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future developments in flood-prone areas, making it a pivotal moment for Benbrook's growth and sustainability.