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Keene P&Z sets public hearing to clarify masonry rules in Sunset Ridge ordinance

Planning and Zoning Commission ยท November 22, 2025

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Summary

The commission voted to set a public hearing Dec. 8 to consider an amendment to Ordinance 2023-665 (Sunset Ridge) that would clarify which products qualify as 'masonry' after a 2018 state change deferring material acceptability to the International Building Code.

The Keene Planning and Zoning Commission set a public hearing to consider an amendment to Ordinance 2023-665 (Sunset Ridge) to clarify what materials qualify as "masonry." City staff told the commission that the ordinance language and the planned-development (PD) provisions predate a 2018 state change that requires municipalities to follow the International Building Code's definition of acceptable materials rather than an enumerated local list.

Commissioners discussed whether to allow cementitious siding products, such as Hardie board, in lieu of traditional brick or stone to increase design variety and marketability. One commissioner said, "I actually like it because ... it gives a little bit more ... options for people," describing a similar development seen in nearby Granbury. City staff responded that the PD ordinance simply states "masonry," and legal review is underway to clarify the commission's authority and what language will be proposed for amendment.

Staff requested direction and proposed setting a public hearing; Commissioner Chris Rhodes moved to set a public hearing on Monday, December 8 at 6 p.m. during the regular meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission; Gilbert Perez seconded and the motion passed.

The commission directed staff to prepare draft amendment language and schedule the required public-notice process (two public hearings and newspaper notice) before final action. The exact amendment language and any legal constraints will be set out in the hearing notice and the draft ordinance.