The San Antonio Board of Adjustment on Sept. 30 voted 11-0 to grant a variance allowing construction of three three‑story single‑family homes at 143, 145 and 147 Forest Avenue. The applicant, Anthony Almaraz, sought a height variance to permit 3‑story buildings where the Unified Development Code (UDC) amendments adopted Jan. 1, 2023, generally limit heights in that context.

Staff recommended denial, saying the proposed three‑story buildings would alter the essential character of the area and that most nearby houses are one story. Staff told the board it had mailed 41 notices and had received multiple letters of opposition. The board spent more than an hour discussing the case, hearing the applicant’s explanation of earlier city emails and whether the property’s circumstances created an unnecessary hardship under the code.

Almaraz told the board he had relied on city communications in late 2022 saying no additional filings were required and that a subsequent change in the UDC created confusion about whether his design had to be altered. "I was acting on the guidance I had been given," Almaraz said during his presentation. He also told commissioners he had engaged the neighborhood association and gathered signatures he said had shifted in support after follow‑up outreach.

Several commissioners said the lot’s physical characteristics and prior approvals weighed in favor of granting relief. "Given the facts and the way the property sits, I do not find this is contrary to the public interest," a commissioner said while moving approval. Other commissioners noted loss of the proposed third‑floor bedrooms would be a substantial harm to the applicant if the variance were denied.

The board made explicit findings in the motion: that literal application of the UDC would cause unnecessary hardship given the property’s configuration; that the variance would not substantially harm adjacent properties; and that the variance was limited to the height and the three proposed dwellings. The motion as read by the maker was supported by a second, and the roll call recorded 11 votes in favor, 0 opposed. The board noted the decision was based on the facts presented to members at the hearing and not on speculation.

The board’s action is a final land‑use variance under the city’s administrative procedures; the decision letters and any appeal deadlines were not specified in the hearing record.

For applicants and neighbors seeking details, staff directed parties to consult the development services office and to speak to staff for filing and permitting steps following the board’s decision.

The full motion and roll call are in the minutes for Sept. 30, 2025.