San Antonio Commission approves Neftalí de León's alley access variance request

The San Antonio Adjustment Board meeting on July 7, 2025, focused on several key issues, including a request for a variance related to property access and a discussion on short-term rental permits.

One of the main topics was a request from Neftalí de León for a variance concerning access to a property located at 141 Regina Street. The request included a proposal for two vehicle entrances and an irrevocable access point to a public alley. The property, which has been under rehabilitation since 2020, faced challenges due to its historical structure and the existing alley's width. City staff recommended against the approval of the variance, citing that it did not align with public interest and that the alley was already adequately paved for resident access.

During the meeting, the applicant's representative highlighted the progress made on the property and emphasized the need for the proposed access to facilitate better circulation for vehicles. After a thorough discussion, the board ultimately voted in favor of granting the variance, with several commissioners noting the historical significance of the property and the necessity of the proposed changes for practical access.

Additionally, the board reviewed a request for a short-term rental permit for a property on Mason Street. The applicant sought an exception to exceed the limit of short-term rentals allowed in the area. The board noted that previous requests had been denied and that the current application would surpass the established cap for such rentals. The discussion highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the impact of short-term rentals on local neighborhoods.

The meeting concluded with the board's unanimous approval of the variance for Regina Street, reflecting a commitment to balancing historical preservation with practical access needs. Further discussions on short-term rental regulations are expected in future meetings as the city continues to navigate the complexities of housing and development.