Planning Commission backs zoning change, landmark designation and final plat in unanimous votes

The Galveston Planning Commission unanimously approved three action items on Dec. 2. Commissioners voted to recommend a change of base zoning for 11243 Stewart Road from R‑1 single family to commercial (case 25P‑046), to recommend landmark designation for 3427 Seeley — home of the African American Museum (case 25P‑048) — and to approve a final plat that establishes four new lots for a completed multifamily complex (case 25P‑049).

Staff said the zoning request for 11243 Stewart Road would extend commercial zoning along Stewart Road and leave the Height and Density Development Zone 6 overlay unchanged; staff recommended approval and noted City Council will take final action after Jan. 22, 2026. Daniel (planning staff) presented the case and answered commissioner questions about adjacent uses. Commissioner (speaker 13) moved to approve case 25P‑046; the motion was seconded and the commission voted to recommend approval.

On the landmark nomination, staff described 3427 Seeley as a two‑story frame building dating to 1874 that has housed the African American Museum since 1999 and carries cultural significance because of its long association with Galveston’s Black community. The museum’s owner spoke in support of the nomination; a motion to approve 25P‑048 with staff recommendations passed unanimously.

For the final plat (25P‑049), staff told commissioners that all infrastructure was constructed and accepted by the city and that the plat would create four new lots and reestablish portions of Seeley, Ball and 52nd Streets. Commissioners praised the project as an important step in post‑Ike recovery. A motion to approve the final plat carried unanimously.

All three approvals were recorded on the Planning Commission docket and will be forwarded to City Council where required for final action.