A proposed zoning change for an outdoor food court and a new housing development, a license extension for a downtown parklet, new hours for the farmers market, proposed financial support for the Hill Country Cook-off, and a pending homeless ordinance were discussed in last night’s City Council meeting.

Zoning Change Requests:

• Food Court: City Council approved the zoning change request on 734-738 South Commerce and 738 South Colorado streets to make way for a food court. The new designation will allow the business owner to have food trucks that will serve food and nonalcoholic beverages, while an adjacent building serves as a coffee shop that also serves alcohol.
• Balser Custom Homes: City Council denied Balser Custom Homes’ zoning change request to build a 60-duplex, 18.58 acre subdivision at 1107 Silent Valley Road.

New Lockhart Farmers Market Hours: City Council took the first step in amending the Lockhart Farmers Market’s hours in its Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Caldwell County. If County Commissioners follow suit, the Farmers Markets’ new hours will be from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., instead of closing up shop at 1:00 p.m.

Parklet Extension: Council voted to continue Little Trouble’s parklet license agreement for three months without an option for an extension.

“Use of Public Areas” Ordinance: The City Attorney drafted an ordinance that clarifies and consolidates existing regulations which are applicable and effective in reducing or preventing the effects of homelessness. However, due to technical difficulties, the presentation of the ordinance was tabled. It will be taken up at the next City Council meeting, July 20.

HOT Application for Hill Country Cook-off Association: City Council granted the Hill Country Cook-Off Association’s application for up to $4,000 in Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funding. Event organizers said the money will be used for advertisements and promotional programs in Texas and surrounding states, hoping to attract more participants and attendees. They expect up to 3,000 people to attend this year’s event. The Hill Country Cook-Off will be held at Lockhart City Park, October 15-16, 2021.