Despite opposition from several neighbors, the Mineola Planning and Zoning Commission approved a zoning change to construct townhomes on E. McDaniel St.

The P&Z’s recommendation still must be approved by the city council on Jan. 22.

Two commission members were absent, and the board also has a vacancy, leaving a quorum of four members to make the decision, which passed unanimously.

Brady Chambers has purchased lots and plans to build townhomes.

Eddie Wooten, who sold land to Chambers and still resides in the neighborhood, said he does not oppose Chambers constructing residences but wants it to remain single-family homes.

The property is zoned for single family, and Chambers sought the change to multi-family in order to build townhomes.

Others offering opposition were Adrian Hernandez. His concerns include privacy, safety, and traffic.

He described the streets as too narrow for two vehicles to pass.

“It will alter the characteristics of the neighborhood,” he said.

Dorie Hilliard, who purchased a home for her daughter and son-in-law, said it will destroy the quiet neighborhood. She said she had spoken to most of the neighbors, who were not in favor.

“It’s not fair those who can’t afford to move,” she said.

Chambers said the four lots are not large enough to build much, maybe six townhomes versus four homes.

There is an abandoned home that needs to be torn down and a utility right-of-way that needs to be cleared.

He said he plans to pave the unbuilt sections of Jones and Willis Streets to city standards at no cost to the city. He will also add a fire hydrant.

The water and sewer lines to the area are adequate to add more homes, he added.

The town homes will be just under 1,500-square-feet and have three bedrooms, two baths and fenced yards. They will be sold individually, not leased.

In making the motion to approve, Demethrius Boyd said the residents’ concerns were valid and he appreciated their input.