Harlingen commission approves conditional variance for Horseshoe Point subdivision after drainage and annexation assurances

The Harlingen City Commission voted to approve a conditional variance that allows the proposed Horseshoe Point subdivision on Morris Road to proceed with one required public entrance rather than the two entrances the city subdivision ordinance normally requires. The vote followed extensive public comment about flooding, traffic and property‑value concerns and came with conditions tying the variance to annexation, planned‑development (PDD) language and infrastructure commitments.

Planning staff told commissioners the project covers about 90 acres and initially proposed roughly 390 lots to be developed in phases; staff later reported the developer is revising plans toward about 350 lots. Staff said the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval; city staff recommended approval subject to conditions intended to protect public health and safety and to ensure future connectivity.

Roberto Fernandez, Harlingen city engineer, outlined the project's drainage approach and described a plan to convert Horseshoe Lake — a roughly 60‑acre resaca — into a regional detention facility. Fernandez said converting and connecting the resaca…