Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing on November 14th for Proposed Mixed-Use Development Near Old Town Helotes

The City of Helotes Planning and Zoning Commission is holding a public hearing during its regular meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 in the Helotes City Hall Council Chamber, 12951 Bandera Road. The focus of the public hearing is to offer Helotes residents an opportunity to publicly comment on the revised land use request for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) from MNO Partners, a New Braunfels-based multifamily real estate investment firm. Planning and Zoning Commission members expressed concerns with the developer’s first proposal during the commission’s July 11 general meeting, regarding the high density of apartments, minimal retail space, and impact of likely increases to traffic, crime, noise, and pedestrian safety. The seven Helotes residents who spoke during this meeting are now among more than 260 who signed an online petition opposing the development.

MNO Partners is seeking approval for the Trailhead at Helotes, three parcels of land consisting of 21.7-acres, for a commercial and residential development on property currently zoned as General Business District (B3). A PUD provides for mixed-use developments.

The Trailhead at Helotes would include 39,880 square feet of retail space and 220 rental townhomes, duplexes, and single-family homes. The property is located across from the entrance to Old Town Helotes and spans one-quarter of a mile along Bandera Road. It sits directly below several homes on Bar X Trail in Helotes Park Estates. The proposed project now includes a reduction in residential density from 366 down to 220 rental units, a reduction in building height from three stories to two stories, and an increase in retail space.

Helotes residents can provide comments during the public hearing portion of the November 14 general meeting agenda of the Planning and Zoning Commission by signing up in person before the start of the meeting.

The Trailhead at Helotes Public Hearing Notice, PUD Application, Conceptual Site Plan, and Project Presentation are available on the City of Helotes website.

Sabrina McGowan
Sabrina McGowan
Sabrina McGowan is an independent journalist for Helotes News. She also brings a wealth of writing and editorial expertise and enthusiasm to small businesses and nonprofit organizations as the owner of SQM Communications. A Helotes native, Sabrina began her career in public broadcasting at KLRN-TV, where she learned the importance of managing various communication projects, establishing solid relationships, and enhancing community involvement. That experience led her to more opportunities in San Antonio, Dallas, and Washington, DC, where she managed communication and PR strategies for national law firms, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Sabrina and her husband, Patrick, returned to Helotes in 2020 and now live in the home where she grew up. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio.

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