Commission approves rezoning at 1514 Rigsby despite staff opposition, adds conditions

The City of San Antonio Zoning Commission voted on Dec. 2 to recommend rezoning 1514 Rigsby Avenue from R4 to C2 CD with a conditional use for motor vehicle sales, approving the applicant's conditions despite a staff recommendation to deny.

Brown 2 Freire, a zoning planner with Development Services, told the commission staff found "likely adverse impacts on neighboring lands" and recommended denial because the property sits in the middle of an established residential block. "The proposed conditional use for motor vehicle sales would further permit an intense commercial use within the block," Brown 2 Freire said on the record.

Elizabeth Russell, the applicant's attorney, said the property has historically supported industrial uses and presented neighborhood support and proposed mitigation. "It has always been used for industrial," Russell said, adding the applicant agreed to downward-directed lighting, no overnight or glare-producing fixtures, and no monument signs, feather flags or temporary signage.

Commissioner Chase noted resident backing for the plan and moved to approve with the applicant's conditions. A friendly amendment adding an alcohol restriction (R) to align with other uses on the block was accepted. Commissioner Duval said he would oppose the motion, pointing to the comprehensive plan consistency question and earlier staff guidance that recommended denial. The motion carried; the commission's recommendation will go to City Council.

The commission's approval includes the conditions read into the record limiting lighting and signage and the added restriction on alcohol sales; the case will proceed to City Council, where the council will make the final determination.