During the Missouri City Council meeting on July 21, 2025, significant discussions centered around a proposed amendment to the Special Use Permit (SUP) for DeWalt Sand Company, which seeks to extend its operational timeline through 2034. The amendment includes updates to truck routes and an increase in maximum daily truck trips from 250 to 300.

The council was informed that the operation currently holds a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) permit to disturb approximately 52 acres out of a total of 836 acres. A key change in the proposed truck routes is the elimination of Oilfield Road for access to Highway 6, with trucks instead using LJ Parkway and Sienna Springs. This adjustment aims to minimize the impact on nearby residential areas, which have grown significantly since the original ordinance was approved in 2011.

Concerns were raised regarding the operational hours, with the applicant initially proposing a start time of 6:30 AM to 4 PM. However, city staff recommended a later start time of 8 AM to 4 PM due to traffic congestion issues. The applicant argued that the reduced hours would make it challenging to meet the increased truck trip demand, suggesting that the current operational hours are necessary for their business model.

Council members expressed apprehension about the potential for increased traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours when residents are commuting to work and school. The police chief confirmed that while the new truck routes are enforceable, enforcement would rely on reports of violations rather than active monitoring.

The discussion also touched on the possibility of the company contributing to road improvements in the area, although this topic was deemed outside the immediate scope of the SUP amendment. Council members suggested exploring a compromise on operational hours to better accommodate both the business needs and community concerns about traffic.

In conclusion, the council's deliberations highlighted the ongoing tension between supporting local business operations and addressing the traffic and safety concerns of residents. The next steps will likely involve further discussions on operational hours and potential compromises to balance these competing interests.