Waco council approves multiple zoning changes, contracts and ordinances; residents press for sidewalk fixes

The Waco City Council approved a package of land-use actions, contracts and ordinances Tuesday evening and heard neighborhood testimony pressing the city for sidewalk and curb‑ramp repairs in North Waco.

Key council actions included approvals of special permits and rezonings, adoption of multiple ordinances on second readings and a contract award for street reconstruction. The council continued one public hearing (Robinson Drive land-use/zoning) to its Oct. 7 meeting to allow staff to gather additional police data and to give the applicant time to meet with neighbors.

Votes at a glance - Consent agenda: approved (resolutions F‑1 through F‑65 except F‑26 pulled; F‑11 deferred; F‑54 filed with affidavit of substantial interest). Roll call recorded yes votes from Lozano, Porter Root, Fairfield, Ewing, Chase and Holmes. - Public hearing G‑1 (special permit for contractor shop, 901 E. Johnson St.): approved; plan commission had recommended a 1‑year special permit with screening and sidewalk conditions. Applicant asked whether a 5‑year permit could match a tenant’s 5‑year lease; staff and council said the typical recommendation is a 1‑year permit and renewals are possible after the initial year. Roll call: yes votes recorded from Lozano, Porter Root, Fairfield, Ewing, Chase and Holmes. - Public hearing G‑2 (house museum renewal, 3300 Austin Ave): approved for a two‑year renewal after neighborhood…