Concerns over proposed zoning changes dominated the Austin City Council meeting on May 8, 2025, as residents urged council members to take a cautious approach. Homeowner Vincent Calzone, representing the Austin Heights Neighborhood Association, called for only a first reading of items 54 and 55, which involve significant zoning adjustments at the Airport and Manor intersection. He emphasized the need for more time to collaborate with developers and assess the implications of the proposed changes, particularly regarding the area's infrastructure, which currently lacks adequate vehicle and pedestrian facilities.

Calzone highlighted the unprecedented nature of the proposed development, which seeks to transform a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) into a multi-use area. He warned that the cumulative effects of increased impervious cover from multiple projects in the Tannehill Branch Watershed could exacerbate flooding issues in the neighborhood. Other speakers echoed his sentiments, advocating for a thorough review and a small area plan before any further development intensification.

The council's decision to consider only the first reading of these items reflects a growing awareness of community concerns regarding urban development and its potential impacts on local infrastructure and environmental sustainability. As discussions continue, residents remain vigilant, hoping for a balanced approach that prioritizes both growth and neighborhood integrity.