Commission reviews Denny's reconstruction costs amid mathematical inconsistencies

Frustration over reconstruction costs dominated the Galveston Zoning Board of Adjustments meeting on July 9, 2025, as board members grappled with conflicting figures presented by a Denny's representative regarding the rebuilding of a damaged structure.

The discussion centered on the assertion that the costs for reconstruction were below the critical 50% threshold, which would allow the project to proceed without additional regulatory scrutiny. One board member expressed skepticism, questioning the mathematical validity of the representative's claims. "It's impossible, it's mathematically impossible," they stated, highlighting discrepancies in the cost breakdown for the new slab and structure.

The representative cited a total reconstruction cost of $2 million, with a significant portion allocated to the new slab. However, board members were left puzzled about how the remaining funds would be utilized if the slab alone accounted for a substantial percentage of the total costs. "If we are starting from the ground up, basically, what's the 52% going to be spent on?" another member queried, emphasizing the need for clarity in the financial details.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the board was not only concerned about the numbers but also about the implications of the reconstruction on the community. The discussion concluded with a motion that passed, allowing the project to move forward, but not without a commitment from staff to provide formal notification of the commission's action within ten days.

The outcome of this meeting underscores the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in balancing development with regulatory compliance, particularly in the wake of significant structural damage. As the board navigates these complex discussions, the community will be watching closely to see how these decisions unfold.