The Cameron-Dune Protection Committee held a special meeting on July 3, 2025, focusing on public comments regarding a beachfront construction certificate and dune protection permit. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an introduction of public speakers who signed up to express their views.
Kristin Davis Klein, a resident of Cameron County, was the first to address the committee. She urged the members to conduct thorough reviews of permit applications, specifically emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Cameron County dune protection and beach access plan. Klein highlighted a requirement that at least three committee members must physically inspect proposed project sites before making recommendations on permits.
Klein raised concerns about the classification of an air separation unit (ASU) as a habitable structure, questioning the implications this classification might have on the permitting process. She pointed out that the proposed site for the ASU is zoned for heavy industrial use, which could conflict with the needs of local residents and beachgoers.
The committee is tasked with balancing the interests of applicants with the community's needs, and Klein's comments reflect a growing concern among residents about the impact of industrial developments on the coastal environment. The meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in local governance and the need for careful consideration of environmental regulations.
As the meeting progressed, additional public comments were expected, indicating ongoing community engagement in the decision-making process regarding coastal development in Cameron County.