Commission approves revocable license for D.R. Horton drainage across NW Seventh Street; residents press for affordability and CRA oversight

Commissioners approved a revocable license agreement that permits a privately maintained drainage pipe serving two D.R. Horton sites to cross a city right‑of‑way on Northwest Seventh Street.

City Engineer John Sferopolous explained the license is required because the private drainage crosses public right‑of‑way; the agreement allows D.R. Horton to maintain and indemnify the city for the crossing pipe.

Commissioner Beverly Perkins, whose district includes the Northwest area where the development is sited, used the item to press staff to identify ways to make the new single‑family homes more affordable for nearby residents. Perkins said the 59 single‑family units in the project — initially proposed at lower price points — now have prices starting near $600,000, and she urged staff to develop a pilot assistance program to help local residents buy into the development.

During public comment, residents said the CRA previously owned the 9 acres and asked whether the city received fair value when it left public ownership. Several speakers urged the developer and the city to ensure local residents benefit from contracts and jobs tied to the project.

The commission approved the revocable license by unanimous roll call. Staff said the license is limited to maintenance of the pipe that connects both D.R. Horton sites; further policy discussions about affordability and CRA assets will return to the commission for separate consideration.