Terrell council approves smaller minimum for SF‑6 infill after heated debate

The Terrell City Council on Jan. 21 approved Ordinance No. 3080 with a change to the SF‑6 single‑family infill standard, lowering the minimum dwelling size from 1,300 to 1,100 square feet.

The action followed a lengthy public discussion and council debate over whether reducing the minimum size for infill homes would improve affordability or create lower‑quality housing. Mayor Ronnie Velasquez moved to amend the ordinance to set the SF‑6 minimum at 1,100 square feet; the motion was seconded by Councilmember Donna Renee Anderson and carried by a 3–2 vote after an earlier motion to approve the ordinance as presented failed.

Supporters of the 1,100‑square‑foot minimum said the change offers more options for lower‑cost, smaller homes on existing lots and gives flexibility for infill development. Councilmember May Ronnie Velasquez framed the vote as a compromise after Planning and Zoning recommended 1,300 square feet and staff had initially proposed 1,100. “In the interest of compromise and, you know, respecting the review done by P and Z, I…