Zoning panel approves rezoning for assisted-living development near Saltillo Street

The San Antonio Zoning Commission on Tuesday approved a rezoning request to allow an assisted‑living/multifamily development on Saltillo Street in District 5.

Staff and the applicant described the proposal as a conversion of existing buildings to serve assisted‑living and residential uses and said the site would contain multiple small buildings with on‑site staffing and security. The commission voted to rezone the property from R‑5 to M‑25, overruling concerns from one commissioner and after discussion about density, resident counts and compatibility with nearby single‑family homes.

The project was introduced by Samantha Benavides of the City’s Planning and Zoning staff, who said the request would allow a multifamily use on the lot and described the staff recommendation in favor. A person identifying themself as the property owner (address given as 1714/1730 Saltillo Street) said the development would provide assisted‑living units, employ local landscapers and cleaners, and include on‑site security and a nurse or nursing assistant on duty.

Commissioners questioned density and how the development would be regulated. Staff said zoning rules limit licensed assisted‑living/residential care uses to six residents by right; any increase beyond that would require a conditional use permit. Commissioners also discussed parking, traffic and noise mitigation for upper‑floor units; the applicant said sound‑reduction materials would be installed between floors.

Some commissioners voiced divided views. Supporters noted the site backs onto a park and argued that assisted‑living is an appropriate transition use; others said the parcel sits amid single‑family homes and expressed concern about the density change. Commissioners ultimately approved the rezoning by recorded vote; Commissioner Kelly cast the lone “no.” The motion to approve was made by President John Bustamante and seconded by Commissioner Rodson.

With the approval the case will move to the San Antonio City Council for final action.

The record includes staff clarifications that the application documents and oral statements differed on unit counts: the applicant described 12 units across four buildings (three units per building), while staff materials described a 14‑unit development. The zoning staff reiterated that permitted resident counts — not unit counts alone — drive certain review thresholds under current code.