Development News for Forest Hill, Texas

Forest Hill Council Denies Rezoning Request for Commercial Property to Residential

The City Council denied a request to rezone two parcels of land, totaling approximately 0.800 acres, from general business (GB) to single-family residential (R2) at 3200 Grady Street. The applicants, Fausto Maldonado Castillo and Manuela Tomaya Garcia, stated they purchased the property believing it was residential, unaware it was zoned for commercial use. Despite their intention to renovate and live in the existing structure, the council cited the property's commercial zoning since 1987, its location between two businesses, and legal precedent which dictates that a non-conforming use loses its protected status upon sale or vacancy. The denial was based on adhering to the letter of the law, despite acknowledging the potential injustice to the buyers.

Forest Hill Fire Department Restructures Command by Moving Fire Marshal Under Fire Chief

The City Council approved Ordinance 2026-12, which amends Chapter 6 of the Code of Ordinances concerning fire prevention and protection. Specifically, it repeals and replaces Section 6.01.001 regarding the number of firefighters. The amendment moves the Fire Marshal position, previously a standalone division, under the Fire Chief. This position will now be classified as an Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal, providing a higher level of supervision when the Fire Chief is unavailable. The position is civil service-appointed and has been approved by civil service. A temporary part-time inspector is currently handling inspections and certificate of occupancy duties until the position is permanently filled and trained.

Forest Hill Council Discusses Charter Amendments, Faces Deadline for November Ballot

The City Council engaged in a discussion regarding proposed charter amendments for potential submission to voters in the November 3rd, 2026 election. Dr. Lindia Thomas, a former charter committee member, advocated for putting the proposed changes on the ballot to allow citizens to vote. Councilwoman Carpenter also expressed a desire to clarify rules and create ethical standards. However, the council determined that they could not approve or disapprove the amendments as presented because the specific changes were not clearly defined for the current council members, including new members. It was suggested that the council might need to form a new charter review committee or revisit the issue in future meetings, possibly in an executive session in July, to meet the August 17th deadline for notifying Tarrant County of any proposed ballot measures. The city secretary emphasized the strict timeline for submitting changes for the November election.

Forest Hill Council Appoints Anthony Cook as Mayor Pro Tem, Debates Deputy Role

The City Council appointed Councilman Anthony Cook as the Mayor Pro Tem after several failed attempts to appoint other council members. The process involved multiple nominations and votes, ultimately resulting in Cook's appointment. Additionally, Councilwoman Janet Carpenter was nominated and subsequently failed to be appointed as Deputy Mayor Pro Tem. Councilman Anthony Cook was later appointed Deputy Mayor Pro Tem.