Lago Vista Planning & Zoning elects chair, flags plat-review 'shot clock' risk amid staff vacancies

Rachel Rich was elected chair of the Lago Vista Planning & Zoning Commission Wednesday, and commissioners nominated Dave Schneider as vice chair, as the panel discussed staffing shortages in development services that members and the city attorney said could expose the city to statutory deadlines for plat review.

The commission elected Rachel Rich in a voice vote after a nomination by Commissioner Kathy Koes; a second was made and members voted "aye." After confirming Rich would accept the role, commissioners nominated Dave Schneider for vice chair and concluded that vote by voice as well. Both leadership changes were announced during the meeting's opening reorganizational items.

Why it matters: Commissioners said limited staff in development services is slowing plat and permit processing and creating procedural risk. City Attorney Brad Bullock told the commission that state law imposes firm timelines on plat review — commonly called a "shot…