San Antonio council denies rezoning for outdoor-storage use on Applewhite Road

San Antonio City Council on March 20 unanimously denied a rezoning request that would have allowed outdoor storage and light-industrial uses at 19529 Applewhite Road.

Neighbors said the property—home to multiple large containers and other outdoor stockpiles—has produced odors and runoff that reach adjacent ranchland and threaten livestock. Multiple residents told the council the owner has previously been cited for code violations and has not removed material the city previously ordered cleared.

The zoning case had a staff recommendation of denial and the Planning Commission also recommended denial. Residents who spoke at the meeting described seeing unpermitted construction and two large waste containers on the site. Albert Escobedo, who identified himself as a nearby property owner, said runoff from the site flows onto his land and into water used by his livestock, and urged the council to reject the rezoning.

Another commenter described the site as inappropriate for the surrounding area, which includes small-scale agricultural uses and horse pasture. The council took a voice vote after a motion to deny the rezoning; the clerk announced the motion passed unanimously.

The council record shows notices were sent to nearby property owners; staff reported 12 notifications with two objections and no letters of support. The file shows the applicant’s proposed use would have included outdoor storage allowed under a light-industrial designation with a specific-use authorization for outdoor storage. Council members and staff referenced concerns about compatibility with surrounding residential and agricultural properties.

The denial means the property will remain under its current zoning designation; any future application from the property owner would need to follow the city’s rezoning process and would be subject to neighborhood notice and staff review.