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College Station planning commission backs revised definition of 'family' and forwards measure to council
Summary
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted Jan. 15 to recommend approval of revised language defining “family” in the city’s Unified Development Ordinance. Staff and commissioners said the change reflects Council direction and does not alter the ordinance’s functional effect.
The College Station Planning and Zoning Commission voted Jan. 15 to recommend that the City Council adopt revised language defining “family” in the Unified Development Ordinance.
Heather Wade, principal planner with Planning and Development Services, told commissioners the council had directed staff to return with a version that included more traditional language. "With that being said, staff recommends approval, and I'm available for any questions," Wade said during her presentation.
Commissioners asked whether the new wording would change how the ordinance operates. Commissioner (S2) said he did not believe the revision altered the underlying legal effect but moved to recommend approval "with the caveat that I don't feel like this is necessary." Wade and other staff confirmed the phrase is written as "including, not limited to," and that it does not functionally restrict or diminish the earlier definition.
The public hearing on the item was opened and closed with no public speakers. After brief discussion, the commission approved the recommendation and directed staff to forward the ordinance to City Council for final action.
The matter will appear before council for consideration; staff will provide the revised ordinance language in the council packet.
— Reporting by the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Jan. 15, 2026
