Poll: Majority opposes development of site
The Record’s online poll from June 6-15 asked readers whether they think Texas State University should develop a 14-acre parcel of land across from campus on Sessom Drive.
The Texas State University System Board of Regents approved the acquisition of the land at its meeting in May, according to university officials.
The land is the same acreage where developer Darren Casey had proposed a large student housing project in 2012.
University spokesman Jayme Blaschke said the property is currently under contract, and Texas State expects to close on the property within the next month. Blaschke also said there are no plans for its immediate use.
However, residents of the Sessom Creek neighborhood think the university already has some ideas for the land’s use.
The acreage is located in the Sessom Creek watershed, and the university’s purchase comes just as the city of San Marcos and the Habitat Conservation Plan have started design work on projects to stabilize a portion of the creek, which drains into the San Marcos River. Unlike private developers, the university is not required to follow local environmental standards for development — only state and federal environmental regulations.
The poll asking, “Do you think the university should develop the 14-acre parcel?” received a total of 146 votes, with the majority of votes – 75 percent or 110 votes – going to option “No, it could have a detrimental effect on the environment and neighborhood.” Twenty-five percent, or 36 votes, chose, “Yes, the university is a good steward of the land.”
A majority of poll voters think the university developing that parcel could have detrimental effects on the environment and neighborhood. Every week, the Record gives its readers the opportunity to voice their opinions on different topics. This poll does not, and does not purport to, accurately depict public opinion. It is only intended to inspire thought-provoking discussion within the community.
SMDR’s new poll is available online now, and asks for reader’s opinions on the Planning and Zoning Commission’s decision to approve a zoning change request for 56 acres from Future Development to Single Family-6 for the Mystic Canyon developement. It can be voted on now at www.sanmarcosrecord.com.
