Commission denies application to allow outdoor storage of dumpsters at Applewhite Road amid strong neighborhood opposition

The San Antonio Zoning Commission voted to deny a rezoning and specific-use authorization that would have permitted outdoor, unscreened storage of commercial dumpsters at 19529 Applewhite Road.

Development Services staff recommended denial of the un‑screened storage request and suggested an alternate approval that would require screening from public rights-of-way and adjacent properties. Staff reported 12 notices were sent, with recorded opposition from neighbors both within and outside 200 feet.

Multiple neighbors and property owners told commissioners they opposed the request, citing prior code violations at the site, visible and persistent outdoor storage, runoff from piles of material that neighbors say flows onto grazing land and into ponds, and impacts on property values. Attorney Christopher Balow said his client owns roughly 90 acres across Applewhite Road and objected to the proposal because of potential diminution in value and runoff risks. Norm Roof and Albert Escobedo provided photographic evidence they said showed ongoing storage and cleanup irregularities. Several speakers said they had previously pursued code-enforcement actions.

Applicant Gerardo Castrata and other representatives said the proposal was to store empty dumpsters only, not to store trash or conduct on-site sorting. The applicant stated the plan was to store empty containers and that recyclables (aluminum, stainless steel) would be taken to recycling facilities, and construction debris would be taken to landfills. Commissioners noted the applicant’s prior code-violation history and the narrowness of the proposed specific use and voted to deny the rezoning and specific-use authorization. The motion for denial was made by Commissioner Eddie Reyes and seconded by Commissioner Hinojosa; the motion passed on roll call.