In a recent public hearing, the local government discussed the rezoning of a property currently housing a fitness center to accommodate a new church, New Hope Church. Jason Deedy, representing the church, confirmed that this would be an additional location, marking the sixth site for the organization, which currently operates five other churches in the area.

The property in question, located at 333 FM 2004, is 3.453 acres and is being transitioned from a B1 neighborhood business designation to a B3 institutional use. Deedy clarified that the church would not include a school or daycare, focusing solely on religious services.

The discussion highlighted some complexities regarding property boundaries. It was revealed that the fitness center's parking lot had encroached on an adjacent vacant tract, which was not included in the sale to the church. Deedy noted that negotiations are ongoing to purchase this additional lot, but the church is prepared to proceed with the current property as it stands.

Concerns about parking were raised, with the understanding that the church would need to assess whether the existing parking would suffice without the additional strip of land. The church will also need to return for a landscape plan review, as the current site is primarily paved.

After a brief discussion, the motion to rezone the property was passed with a vote of 4-1 in favor. The meeting then moved on to other administrative matters, including a plan amendment for a separate property in Lake Jackson.