Planners propose moving subdivision layout review earlier and reintroducing Master Development Plan (MDP) step

Boerne planning staff proposed revisions to the city's development-review sequence intended to give Planning & Zoning earlier opportunity to review subdivision layout through a reinstated Master Development Plan (MDP). Under the draft, MDPs would be required for developments with two or more phases, two or more land uses, or projects larger than 10 acres, and would be presented before detailed engineering to give commissioners a principal opportunity to review layout and phasing.

Joanne Marie Andrade said the proposal also clarifies administrative versus legislative decision authority, streamlines some administrative plat approvals where appropriate, and sets clearer prerequisites for construction permits, public-infrastructure acceptance and issuance of certificates of occupancy. The goal, she said, is to reduce late-stage surprises by reviewing broader concepts earlier in the process then sequencing engineering and construction checks.

Commissioners discussed the appropriate acreage threshold for MDPs, whether certain multifamily or major projects should require explicit Commission review, and how administrative discretion would be bounded to preserve transparency.