The developer of a controversial new subdivision in northeast Burnet County now seeks a second hearing related to its recent preliminary plat application.
Shri Krishna Estates LLC in Austin anticipates the Burnet County Commissioners Court could soon reconsider its application to develop The Estates of Dominion Ranch.
During a phone call with the Bulletin June 16, Lina Chtay, LLC chief engineer, confirmed the company hopes another hearing may occur soon. Then, the court could enable plans to develop 210 residential lots over more than 990 acres at 6761 FM 2657.
The court first reviewed the Ranch application during its June 13 meeting.
At that time, court action went against the Ranch.
Precinct 1 Commissioner Jim Luther Jr., Precinct 2 Commissioner Damon Beierle and Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Don Dockery attended the meeting.
Two more court members were absent; County Judge James Oakley and Precinct 3 Commissioner Billy Wall.
Before the court voted, County Attorney Eddie Arredondo informed present court members the Ranch application met all basic legal requirements.
In turn, the court voted 2-1 on the application.
Beierle and Dockery voted to approve the development plan. Luther voted against it. The motion failed.
“Because by law, the court needs a minimum of three votes (in favor) before it may pass any action,” Arredondo told the Bulletin.
Luther cited unsure water data collected from the site of the proposed subdivision, compiled, reviewed and released by the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District and other groundwater experts.
The data shows water discharged from the depths of the TrinityAquifer could be sufficient to support the proposed subdivision.
However, district officials and other experts believe it is difficult to predict whether water flow to the subdivision would disturb shallow wells which pump water to several other residences near the new development.
He could continue opposition to the Ranch, Luther told the Bulletin.
“Until we see better water availability in that area,” he said.
‘Because by law, the court needs a minimum of three votes (in favor) before it may pass any action.’
— Eddie Arredondo Burnet County Attorney