Poll: Most are wary of ‘Mystic Canyon’ development

The Record’s online poll from June 16-29 asked readers whether they think the Planning and Zoning Commission should have approved the zoning change for the Mystic Canyon development.

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 4-3 in favor of approving a zoning change request for 56 acres to accommodate the Mystic Canyon development during their June 12 meeting.

The zoning change request stirred controversy because the land is undeveloped greenspace over the environmentally-sensitive Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone, and because residents of adjacent neighborhoods voiced numerous concerns about the development including traffic issues, worsening drainage when some houses are already in danger of flooding, and losing habitat for wildlife.

The commission first heard the request to change the zoning of that acreage from Future Development to Single Family-6 a month ago and held a public hearing. A motion to deny the request was left on the table when the commissioners decided to postpone their decision until the applicant, Jim Ladner, had reached out to the public about Mystic Canyon.

Several residents spoke in favor of the development during public comments, noting that Ladner has seemed willing to address the concerns of the residents in neighborhoods near the proposed development, but most public comments speakers were not as keen on the development.

The poll asking, “Do You Think The Planning And Zoning Commission Should Have Approved The Zoning Change For The Mystic Canyon Development?” received a total of 66 votes, with the majority of votes – 77 percent or 51 votes – going to option “No, it could cause too many potential environmental and neighborhood issues.” Twenty-three percent, or 15 votes, chose, “Yes, we need more single family housing and the developer seems responsible.”

A majority of poll voters think the Mystic Canyon development could cause too many environmental issues as well as issues like traffic and drainage problems for surrounding neighborhoods. 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 San Marcos City Council’s decision to pass Resolution No. 2018-120R, which expresses the city council’s support for the reversal of the Department of Homeland Security family separation policies at the border. It can be voted on now.