Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Despite heavy neighborhood opposition, commission approves five duplexes at 3411 East
Summary
After extensive public comment raising concerns about infrastructure, traffic, and neighborhood character, the commission approved a conditional‑use permit allowing Forward Battle Investments to construct five duplexes at 3411 East by a 4–1 vote.
The Texarkana County Planning Commission approved a conditional‑use permit for a five‑duplex development at 3411 East after a lengthy hearing marked by strong neighborhood opposition.
Developer JC Cowart and management representatives from Triability Group said the project would add modest, affordable multifamily housing and said they would enforce tenant screening, lease addenda and property maintenance to limit trespass and exterior decline. "We want to bring good quality housing," Cowart said during his presentation, and the management team described screening criteria and rapid responses to trash and inoperable vehicles.
Neighbors raised multiple concerns, including the site’s rural character, lack of nearby grocery stores and library services, septic and water‑pressure constraints, liability risks from creeks and ponds, and potential property‑value impacts. Residents also urged the commission to consider alternative sites or to prioritize single‑family housing that aligns with the area’s existing pattern.
After comments from residents and developers, the commission voted: Anita Picket cast the lone 'No' and four commissioners voted 'Yes' (Hickerson, Owens, Mobs, Chairman Neil), carrying the motion 4–1. Commissioners discussed that the property is zoned C3, which allows duplexes through a conditional use permit, and that the earlier rezoning attempt had failed, prompting the applicant to pursue a conditional‑use pathway.
The approval includes the conditional‑use permit; future construction and any additional structures will require building permits and any required health‑department approvals for septic systems. Several residents said they plan continued monitoring of development activity and potential appeals if conditions are not met.
