The Laredo Planning and Zoning Commission approved a conditional‑use permit allowing a second detached single‑family residence on Lots 11 and 12, Block 937, Eastern Division at 1702 East O'Kane Street.

Applicant representative Miguel Gomez said the owner rehabilitated the existing structure and proposes to build an additional roughly 1,000‑square‑foot home behind the existing house. Gomez told the commission the new home would be “consistent with the neighborhood” and explained constraints that make a two‑story house less desirable.

A nearby property owner told the commission they opposed the permit and said neighbors fear increased traffic and changes to the neighborhood’s character; the speaker emphasized long residency in the neighborhood. In response, a planning staff member noted the proposed use would remain single‑family detached dwellings on two lots and said, “we don't anticipate…that because it's so similar, it's exactly the same as the rest of the land uses that it would pose any sort of negative impact.” Staff also explained the existing dwelling encroaches across the lot line and that the authority’s review concluded the proposal is consistent with surrounding uses.

Commissioners asked whether the lots were platted separately (they are) and discussed replatting and down‑zoning as possible alternatives if the property were later subdivided. The commission voted to approve staff recommendations; a voice vote recorded multiple “Aye” responses and the motion carried.

Why it matters: The approval permits an additional single‑family dwelling on a property where a structure currently encroaches across two platted lots. Neighbors expressed concern about cumulative effects on neighborhood character and traffic; staff concluded the immediate proposal is compatible with adjacent single‑family homes.

Next steps: The applicant may proceed with permitting subject to any building‑department requirements; staff noted that future subdivision or replatting would require additional zone changes and approvals.