New Braunfels · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City Leadership Recruitment
The City Council is reviewing the performance of the current City Manager and kicking off the search process for key leadership roles including the City Attorney and City Manager. These decisions shape how city services are administered and how legal matters are handled for residents.
City Attorney and City Manager Searches
Council discussed the search and selection process for a City Attorney and City Manager behind closed doors. Any actual hiring will happen in a future open meeting.
Germany Resident Travel and Communication
The committee is planning to discuss communication efforts and potential future trips for New Braunfels residents visiting Germany, reinforcing international cultural ties.
Data Center Regulations
Staff presented proposed zoning code amendments requiring special use permits in heavy industrial districts for data centers, featuring strict standards for noise, setbacks, landscaping, and utility usage.
210 S. Castell Contract Extension Request
Developers of the former co-op site requested a five-year performance deadline extension due to tenant softening and redesign work. No incentive funds have been disbursed.
Comal and Guadalupe Counties Workforce Study
A comprehensive workforce study is underway to survey industry leaders and gather data on job needs, retention, and training requirements in Comal and Guadalupe counties.
Economic Development Negotiations with Gener8tor
The council considered an Economic Development Corporation recommendation to fund a $1.125 million multi-year entrepreneurship incubator project with Gener8tor, but ultimately decided to postpone the vote.
Interim City Attorney Employment Terms
The City Council discussed the employment terms and arrangements for the interim city attorney during a closed executive session.
City Executive Leadership Search & Real Estate Lease
The council evaluated top city leadership positions, including the city manager, city attorney, and municipal court judge.
Entrepreneurship Incubator Program
The EDC considered partnering with Gener8tor on a $1.2 million multi-year incubator project to help local startup businesses scale and grow.
Project Maiden Economic Development
City officials discussed potential economic development agreements for Project Casa behind closed doors.
Chapter 380 Economic Development Program Policy Updates
The board reviewed grant applications aimed at preserving and improving downtown commercial properties and businesses.
Commissioner Training on Chronicle Software
The committee reviewed plans for community programs such as Field of Graves and Soul Searching to engage residents with local history.
TIRZ No. 1 Leadership Appointments
The board selected its leadership for the remainder of 2026, re-appointing John Malik as chair and choosing Mark St. John as vice-chair.
Texas State Technical College Economic Development
The city is in talks regarding economic development opportunities with Texas State Technical College.
SPARK Small Business Center Q2 Performance Update
The SPARK Small Business Center shared its second-quarter progress and support initiatives for local entrepreneurs.
Towing Ordinance Reform
The city is updating its towing regulations and fee schedules for the first time since 2015 to account for rising operational costs, with new rules proposed for electric vehicles and fuel adjustments.
Tourism Public Improvement District (TPID)
The city is moving forward with a 2% assessment district managed by hoteliers to fund off-season marketing and attract conventions, sparking debate among residents concerned about traffic and crowding.
Faust Hotel Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreement
The city approved a tax rebate agreement to support the extensive multi-million dollar renovation of the historic downtown Faust Hotel into a high-end boutique property.
Workforce Study Partnership with Seguin EDC
The alliance is launching a study to compare local educational opportunities with the actual needs of regional employers. This will help match students and job seekers with the right training programs.
Connections Lease Real Property Deliberation
The council discussed terms and due diligence regarding a property lease known as the Connections Lease.
Terminal Restaurant Planning
The board was scheduled to review requirements and considerations for planning a new terminal restaurant at the municipal airport.
Childcare Accessibility and Quality
The city is investing in a new initiative to help families find childcare and support local providers. This is a major effort to solve a local workforce and family issue.
International Sister City Relations and Germany Travel
The committee discussed ways to keep in touch with Braunfels, Germany, including upcoming resident trips and potential visits tied to the Wurstfest Association.