The City Council of Bellville held the first public forum last night in the process of drafting a comprehensive zoning ordinance for the city. This meeting provided an opportunity for citizens to voice their concerns, ask questions, and actively participate in shaping the future of land use regulations within the city.

With the objective of preserving property values, protecting the community, and maintaining a high quality of life for its residents, the City of Bellville has been diligently working on a zoning ordinance that reflects the unique needs and aspirations of the community. In compliance with Local Government Code section 211.007(b), the ordinance aims to establish clear guidelines for land use and development, creating a framework that promotes orderly growth and compatibility among various land uses.

During the public forum, the City Council members, along with staff, and legal counsel, fielded a range of questions from citizens, many of whom just wanted additional information on the proposed zoning ordinance. The council members listened as the city’s attorney explained the majority of the process to the citizens.  The preliminary report on the zoning ordinance can be found on the city’s website or by clicking HERE.  The map of the of the zoned areas can also be found on the city’s website or by clicking HERE.  The map is color coded with the following zoning classifications (SEE BELOW) that are planning to be implemented. 

The draft zoning ordinance organizes the city into distinct “Zones,” each with specific classifications tailored to address their unique characteristics. These classifications include single-family zones with different minimum lot sizes, mixed-use zones that encourage a blend of residential and commercial uses, general commercial zones to support local businesses, industrial zones to accommodate manufacturing and warehousing, historic zones to preserve the city’s rich heritage, and agricultural zones that recognize the importance of farming activities and open spaces.

To ensure the effectiveness of the zoning ordinance, zone-specific regulations have been developed, addressing essential factors such as minimum lot width and depth, setbacks, structure height restrictions, dwelling space requirements, parking regulations, and driveway specifications. These regulations are designed to maintain the integrity of each zone and facilitate harmonious development, while safeguarding the interests of both property owners and the broader community.

  1. Single-Family Zones: To make sure that residential neighborhoods stay the way they are and maintain their unique characteristics, the zones where only single-family homes are allowed will be divided into different categories based on the smallest size of the lots. This will give some flexibility to accommodate different housing requirements while still keeping the overall feel and look of these neighborhoods intact.

    1. Residential Zone 1:  Minimum lot size of 22,000 square feet.
    2. Residential Zone 2:  Minimum lot size of 12,500 square feet.
    3. Residential Zone 3:  Minimum lot size of 7,000 square feet.

  2. Mixed-Use Zone: The mixed-use zone aims to bring together residential and commercial activities that work well together. This approach encourages people to walk around and interact within their communities, making them more lively and engaging. Additionally, it helps boost the local economy by providing opportunities for businesses to thrive in the same area where people live.

  3. General Commercial Zone: The general commercial zone is a designated area specifically for retail stores, services, and offices. It’s created to meet the business requirements of the community and ensure that commercial activities have appropriate zoning. In other words, it provides dedicated spaces where businesses can operate and serve the needs of the local residents in a planned and organized manner.

  4. Industrial Zone: The industrial zone is an area that is set aside for manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial activities. The purpose of this zone is to concentrate these operations in specific locations in order to minimize any potential conflicts with residential areas. By doing so, the city aims to promote a peaceful coexistence between industrial and residential areas, ensuring that the two can function side by side without causing disruptions or issues.

  5. Historic Zone: The historic zone is designed to safeguard areas of the city that hold important historical and cultural value. By assigning this designation, the city aims to preserve its rich heritage and ensure that these special places are protected. This effort helps to maintain and conserve the unique identity of Bellville by safeguarding its historical landmarks, buildings, and sites that contribute to its distinctive character and story.

  6. Agricultural Zone: The agricultural zone acknowledges the significance of farming and the preservation of open spaces. It is specifically designated to support and facilitate agricultural activities. By establishing this zone, the city aims to encourage sustainable farming practices while safeguarding the connection to its rural origins. This zone emphasizes the importance of agriculture in the community and seeks to maintain the city’s ties to its agricultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the city’s rural roots and the value placed on preserving farmland and open spaces.

 

Floating Vimeo Video

 

The second public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Bellville City Hall with the third being held next week.  All who have questions or concerns are encouraged to attend to take part in the decision-making process.  Citizens and interested parties are strongly encouraged to attend these hearings and actively participate, offering their insights and opinions to shape the final zoning ordinance.

Last night’s public forum marked the beginning of an inclusive and collaborative approach, as Bellville residents had the opportunity to engage directly with their elected officials and contribute to the formulation of the zoning ordinance. By facilitating open dialogue and gathering public input, the City Council aims to create a zoning framework that truly reflects the aspirations and concerns of the community, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for Bellville.

As the City of Bellville moves forward in its endeavor to establish a comprehensive zoning ordinance, the engagement and participation of its citizens will play a pivotal role. With the upcoming public hearings, residents have a unique chance to shape the future of their city, ensuring that land use regulations align with their vision of a thriving community. The City Council remains committed to transparency, responsiveness, and inclusivity, fostering a sense of shared ownership as Bellville continues on its path to progress and in preparation for future growth.  You can view the entire forum in the video below: