The Planning and Zoning Commission of Anna, Texas, convened on June 2, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including public concerns regarding new construction and zoning changes.

The meeting began with a public hearing where residents expressed their concerns about the impact of new developments on their neighborhoods. One resident lamented the loss of trees and privacy due to recent construction, stating, "With this new construction, we lost everything." The commission acknowledged these sentiments and closed the public hearing to focus on commission and staff discussions.

The first major topic addressed was the future of Persimmon Street, which will serve as a public road connecting to White Street. The commission clarified that this road was intended to facilitate access for residents in the surrounding neighborhoods. The discussion highlighted a shift in zoning from industrial flex office space to single-family attached homes, which is expected to lower traffic density in the area.

Traffic concerns were a significant focus of the meeting. A commissioner inquired about the potential for a traffic light at a busy intersection, noting that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) typically requires traffic studies to justify the installation of signals. Assistant City Manager Greg Peters explained that while the city can monitor traffic and conduct studies, the timeline for installing a traffic light could take one to two years after the need is established. He emphasized the importance of synchronizing traffic signals to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

The commission also discussed the implications of increased traffic on local roads, particularly during peak hours. Concerns were raised about the potential for drivers to divert through residential areas to avoid congestion, which could strain local infrastructure.

Following these discussions, the commission unanimously approved a motion related to the agenda item concerning traffic and zoning changes. The meeting then moved on to consider a request to rezone a property at 703 East White Street from residential to commercial use, aligning with the city's comprehensive plan for transitional development in the downtown area.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing community concerns while balancing development needs. The next steps include ongoing monitoring of traffic patterns and further discussions on zoning adjustments to accommodate growth in Anna.