The Wimberley Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously on Sept. 11 to grant a certificate of appropriateness for exterior work and a small addition at 13900 Ranch Road 12, the property long known as Hildy's and now under new ownership.

Nathan Sloan of First Run Construction represented the owners and described plans for a modest kitchen expansion, a restroom that will be sited under an existing limb and a new exterior treatment that wraps two existing wood columns in stone to match an existing fireplace. Sloan said the large limb will not be removed: "The limb will pass over the top of the roof and then drops down on the other side of the bathroom. So it is not being affected in any form, shape, or way."

Why it matters: The building is in Wimberley’s historic district, so exterior changes and additions require a certificate of appropriateness. Commissioners reviewed roof material, signage proportions and stonework to ensure compatibility with the district’s character and urged the applicants to match existing materials where possible.

Key facts from the hearing

- Scope of work: The project includes a small addition to expand kitchen space, additional restrooms and an improved courtyard access for seating; new planter and masonry elements will match existing stonework. Sloan said the project increases the building footprint slightly but that impervious cover limits were respected.

- Trees and site work: Sloan said the restroom addition is located to avoid removing substantial limbs and that tree limbs will pass above the new roof; he said the design reflected measured site conditions.

- Materials and details: Sloan corrected an architectural error in the drawings that had listed a clay tile roof, saying the building will use a metal standing‑seam roof to match existing materials. Commissioners asked that proposed signage proportions proceed through city sign review: staff confirmed signage will be routed through the city process.

- Public notice and approvals: Staff said the item did not require public notice because it is not a demolition; the commission discussed details and then voted to approve the certificate of appropriateness. A motion to approve was made and seconded; the chair called the vote and commissioners signaled unanimous approval.

Ending

Commissioners praised the owners’ efforts to preserve the large tree at the site and to match existing materials. The commission closed the public hearing and approved the certificate of appropriateness; staff will process necessary permits and signage through the city’s standard review process.