Boerne Planning Commission denies Goodwill SUP citing community impact concerns

The Boerne Planning and Zoning Commission made a significant decision during their July 7, 2025, meeting, denying a special use permit (SUP) for a proposed Goodwill store. The commission voted 6 to 1 against the permit, citing concerns over compliance with the Unified Development Code (UDC) criteria, particularly regarding potential negative impacts on property values and community character.

Commissioner Keller expressed apprehension about the possibility of dumping issues associated with the store, emphasizing that such problems could diminish property values in the area. He highlighted that all 13 criteria for SUP approval must be met, and he felt that at least four were not satisfied in this case. Other commissioners echoed these sentiments, reinforcing the importance of adhering to the city’s master plan and development standards.

Commissioner Hartley, while acknowledging Goodwill's positive community mission, also sided with the majority, indicating that the proposed location did not align with the character of Boerne. He encouraged Goodwill to engage more actively with the community, should the permit be denied, to demonstrate their commitment and impact.

In addition to the SUP discussion, the commission briefly addressed drive-through regulations, prompted by a recent Starbucks SUP approval. Staff presented a comparison of existing regulations with those from other cities, such as Saint Paul, Minnesota, which has stricter guidelines on drive-through locations. The commission plans to revisit these regulations in future meetings to ensure they adequately address community needs.

The meeting also marked a transition for the city, as Miss Rogers announced her departure to become vice principal at Ambleside School of Boerne. Her contributions over the past six years were acknowledged, and the commission expressed gratitude for her service.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect the commission's commitment to maintaining the character and values of the Boerne community while navigating the complexities of development and growth. The denial of the Goodwill SUP serves as a reminder of the careful consideration given to proposals that may impact local neighborhoods.