Boerne Commission debates Goodwill’s revised proposal amidst community concerns

The Boerne Planning and Zoning Commission convened on July 7, 2025, to discuss a proposal from Goodwill Industries, which had previously been denied a special use permit (SUP) in 2023. The meeting focused on the community's concerns regarding Goodwill's potential impact on the local area and the reasons behind the earlier denial.

The discussion began with a community member questioning the motivation for Goodwill's return to Boerne, expressing skepticism about the organization's commitment to the community. The speaker emphasized the importance of local engagement and questioned what Goodwill had done to demonstrate its investment in Boerne before seeking approval again.

Another participant raised concerns about the proposed site plan, specifically regarding access to the O'Reilly Auto Parts store. Questions were posed about whether the construction would obstruct O'Reilly's loading dock, which could affect their operations. Commission members clarified that the plan would not block access to O'Reilly's delivery area.

As the meeting progressed, members revisited the reasons for the 2023 denial, which were tied to the entrance corridor overlay district regulations. These regulations were designed to ensure that developments align with the community's character and aesthetic. The commission acknowledged that the SUP requirement was a citywide standard linked to C-2 zoning.

Commissioner Eiler reflected on the previous decision and expressed a desire to understand how Goodwill's proposal might have changed since its last submission. He noted the importance of considering the community's needs and the potential benefits of the proposed development.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion among commission members, highlighting the ongoing deliberation about balancing community interests with the potential economic contributions of larger entities like Goodwill. The commission is expected to continue evaluating the proposal in light of community feedback and regulatory requirements.