Residents of the Guadalupe Heights neighborhood expressed significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the ongoing Maze Creek project and its implications for local infrastructure and safety. A resident, speaking within a tight five-minute window, highlighted the lack of responses to numerous questions raised at a previous meeting on July 27, where community members sought clarity on the project.
The Maze Creek project, which includes the development of the Rio Verde subdivision—a rent-to-own affordable housing initiative—has raised alarms among locals. The resident pointed out that the city manager discussed potential tax exemptions for affordable housing during an executive session, which the community fears could negatively impact their neighborhood. The resident noted that the developer has indicated plans to profit significantly from the project, raising further concerns about the community's needs versus the developer's interests.
A major point of contention is the proposed redesign of local streets. The resident criticized the city's decision to convert their cul-de-sac into a connector street to accommodate increased traffic from the new subdivision, arguing that this change was not part of the original city plans when they purchased their home. They emphasized that had the city constructed Rodeo Run, as outlined in the master thoroughfare plan, such drastic changes to their neighborhood would not be necessary.
Additionally, the resident raised alarms about a newly approved commercial office building and chemical storage facility near the neighborhood, questioning the city's preparedness for potential flooding and its impact on local water safety. They expressed disappointment with the city's engagement efforts, stating that the recent display of information on easels did not constitute a meaningful meeting.
The community is now seeking a formal meeting with city officials to address these pressing concerns and ensure that their voices are heard in the planning process.