King William hotel told to meet 50% greenery requirement after artificial-turf, gravel installation

The Historic Compliance and Technical Advisory Board voted May 23 to accept staff recommendations that the King William property at 1037 South Alamo Street bring its front-yard landscaping into compliance with historic-district rules by meeting a 50% greenery requirement.

Meryem Martínez, general manager of King William, said the hotel supports meeting the 50% standard and is willing to work with staff on adjustments. Public commenters and commissioners raised concerns about visibility and the prominent placement of artificial turf and gravel near the street. One public commenter who identified herself as part of a gardening group offered volunteer help to replant portions of the area.

Staff characterized the case as a violation because the artificial turf and gravel were installed before a certificate of appropriateness was obtained; staff’s recommended stipulation requires the applicant to provide at least 50% green (planting) coverage in the front garden and to return materials to staff for a certificate-of-appropriateness review. Commissioners discussed options including moving turf to less visible areas and increasing planted beds along the front edge to reduce visual impact. The board approved staff recommendations on a roll call vote; Commissioner Hernández recorded a no vote while the other members supported the motion.

The board directed the applicant to work with staff to identify how the 50% calculation applies to the property’s front garden and to return with a plan for plants and maintenance.