Council adopts cultural‑district overlay rezoning for parts of south central neighborhoods

San Angelo City Council on May 6 adopted a rezoning amendment for a Cultural District overlay that reclassifies two residential pockets from RS‑1/RS‑2 to RM‑1 zoning while preserving residential development standards and limiting commercial encroachment.

Aaron Benoit, director of Planning & Development Services, explained the change affects a cluster of lots near the railroad and Chadbourne Street and a larger RS‑2 area near Avenue C/D, Avenue A and nearby alleys. RM‑1 (low‑rise multifamily) allows single‑family and multi‑family structural types but does not authorize commercial uses in the newly designated residential pockets, Benoit said. The ordinance also clarifies permitted home occupations (teaching, tutoring, counseling, limited daycare) under the overlay.

Councilmember and longtime neighborhood advocate Steve Eustace spoke in support, noting staff and planning‑commission work to refine the boundaries and property‑owner outreach prior to second reading. Planning commission had recommended approval. Following discussion and public comment the council approved the ordinance on second reading, 7–0.

Benoit told council the zoning change is intended to preserve neighborhood scale while providing more flexible residential development options and preventing commercial conversion that could disrupt nearby neighborhoods.

Ending: The rezoning took effect as approved; staff will proceed with implementation and provide follow‑up materials for affected property owners.