# 13 Garza appointed to P&Z Committee

Martin Garza was approved for appointment as the new commissioner on the 3rd seat of the Dripping Springs Planning and Zoning Commission during the Aug ust14 Dripping Springs City Council meeting.

“I was honored to hear of my appointment, especially with another well qualified applicant contending for it. I learned a great deal in my interview of what’s expected in this role, and believe my community involvement will help bring a helpful perspective to the commission.

I look forward to serving my term,” Garza said.

Dripping Springs resident Garza is IT manager at the Texas Dept. of Information Resources. He is a University of Texas alumni with an MPA from the Red McCombs School of Business.

Planning and Zoning Chairman Mim James said, “Martin was chosen because of his strong management experience, his IT background, and his understanding of the issues facing our community, because of his significant involvement in various volunteer activities.

“We believe he will be a valuable addition to the commission, which handles complex issues associated with zoning, site development, and overall growth in our community.”

The city resident seat became open to applicants after P & Z Commissioner Eric Oswald served out his term and then relocated outside the city limits. The 3rd seat is one of two city resident seats. The resident seats, along with two ETJ seats and three seats of either jurisdiction, complete the seven seats of the commission. Garza’s term will run through to June 30, 2020.

The Planning and Zoning Commission makes recommendations to the city council regarding the Comprehensive Plan, changes in zoning, zoning ordinance, amendments, zoning to be given to newly annexed areas. It recommends approval of plats of subdivisions as submitted for review, and other planning related matters delegated by city council. The commissioners all serve as volunteers. Meetings are on the 4th Tuesday of every month at City Hall.

Qualified registered voters in Dripping Springs or Hays County can apply for open seats at any time. Applications are kept on file for two years. Appointees serve twoyear terms, and there is no limit to the number of terms each can serve.