Council approves Matthew Meadows Estates zoning amid resident drainage concerns

The Weatherford City Council voted to adopt an ordinance approving a zoning-map amendment for a roughly 21.13-acre tract on Old Dicey Road to allow a planned unit development overlay for Matthew Meadows Estates.

Scott McDonald, city planning staff, told the council the request would convert the site from its current residential-estate zoning to residential estate with a PUD overlay for a 27-lot single-family subdivision and described proposed amenities including a playground, walking trails, picnic areas and decorative street lighting. He said the proposal is consistent with the city's general plan and noted that the project had been previously approved in 2017.

During the public hearing resident Lynn Baber asked about drainage, noting concerns raised during an earlier planning-and-zoning meeting about impacts on adjacent properties. Baber asked, "could the city help residents understand what options are available at that time if there's a negative impact?" She recited staff's earlier explanation that drainage is addressed at the time of civil engineering plans.

Applicant Ruston Kinman, who identified himself as a civil contractor and owner through 4K Companies, said his team had asked engineers to redo the drainage study to account for neighboring developments and confirmed the project will meet current codes. "We have gone back now to our engineer and have asked them to redo the whole drainage study again to ensure everyone it's right now," Kinman said, adding he intends to build higher-end, million-dollar-plus estate homes.

City staff and an additional staff speaker explained that drainage and other public improvements must be designed and accepted prior to selling lots and that the process includes city review of traffic, drainage, water and wastewater standards. Public works staff said they investigate post-construction drainage complaints and, when necessary, can intervene or residents can pursue private remedies under Texas water law.

Councilmember Luke Williams moved to approve the ordinance; Rod White seconded. The motion passed (ayes have it). The council recorded no amendments to the request at the meeting.

Why it matters: The approval allows a previously approved subdivision plan to move forward under an updated zoning code and adds city assurance that engineering reviews and required improvements are part of the construction process. Residents remain concerned about potential drainage impacts; the developer pledged to update engineering studies before construction.

Next steps: The developer must submit civil engineering plans that satisfy city standards for drainage and other public improvements before construction or lot sales can proceed.