In a recent meeting of the Stafford Planning & Zoning Commission, discussions centered around the relocation of Good Shepherd Church, which has been part of the Stafford community for over 40 years. The church is transitioning from its previous location at All Saints Church on Dallas Avenue, which has recently closed, to a new facility on Brand Lane. This move is significant as Good Shepherd is the only church in Stafford under the Diocese of Texas.

The church's representatives expressed confidence in their new location, noting that they have a regular congregation of about 25 to 35 attendees. They assured the commission that parking requirements are already met on-site, with additional arrangements made for overflow parking from neighboring businesses, which have minimal traffic. The church's busiest time will be Sunday mornings, aligning with the typical schedule of other religious institutions in the area.

However, the meeting also highlighted concerns from neighboring businesses, particularly the Texas Gun Club located next door. The gun club's president raised issues regarding potential legal implications related to the proximity of a church to a shooting range, especially if the church were to host educational activities. The church representatives clarified that their weekday activities would be limited to a free piano class for children on Saturday afternoons, with no other events planned during the week.

The commission discussed the need for compliance with local regulations, including parking and accessibility requirements. They emphasized that any potential conflicts between the church and the gun range would need to be addressed, particularly if any legal restrictions regarding the proximity of schools or similar institutions were to apply.

Ultimately, the commission moved to approve the church's relocation, with a recommendation for ongoing dialogue between the church and the gun club to ensure that both entities can coexist without conflict. This decision reflects the commission's commitment to fostering community development while addressing the concerns of existing businesses. As the church prepares for its transition, the focus will remain on maintaining a harmonious relationship with its neighbors and adhering to local regulations.