Residents of Boerne voiced significant concerns during the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on August 4, 2025, primarily regarding the upcoming Buc-ee's project. The discussions highlighted issues related to traffic congestion, light pollution, and the overall impact on property values and community aesthetics.

Several residents, including Paula Reeker and Dana Mathis, expressed their worries about the lack of transparency surrounding the Buc-ee's development. Mathis emphasized that the project has not been adequately communicated to the public since its inception in 2016, leading to uncertainty about its implications for the community. He specifically mentioned concerns about the size and brightness of signage, as well as the potential for overwhelming lighting, drawing from his previous experiences with Buc-ee's locations.

Reeker echoed these sentiments, urging the commission to reconsider aspects of the project that may not align with the current needs of Boerne. She pointed out that the city has changed significantly since the original agreement was made, and she called for a thorough review of the traffic situation to ensure that the anticipated influx of visitors can be managed effectively.

The residents' comments underscored a desire for the commission to take a more active role in shaping the Buc-ee's agreement, advocating for measures that would prioritize the interests of long-term residents over those of the corporation. They requested a full traffic study and expressed hopes that the commission would not simply approve the project as a formality.

As the meeting concluded, the commission members reassured attendees that they are committed to thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Buc-ee's project, emphasizing their role in balancing community needs with development interests. The discussions from this meeting reflect a growing concern among Boerne residents about maintaining the town's character and quality of life amidst rapid development.