The Woods of Shavano Community Association

Editor's Letter (March Issue)

Apr 10, 2000

We live in a wonderful community. Residents can safely raise a family or relax and enjoy a peaceful retirement. Just over twenty-five years ago this community was established on the outskirts of San Antonio with bountiful open land surrounding it. Over the years, the
land was slowly developed along I-10, De Zavala and elsewhere and residents are now beginning to feel the effects: Several community members commented on increasing traffic snarls along De Zavala at the annual membership meeting. As the city?’s population continues to shift north, growth pressures will increasingly impact our community.

In order for the quality of life within the Woods of Shavano to remain stable ?– and ideally be enhanced ?– the challenge falls to all residents to take an active interest (and sometimes a role) in the affairs of the community. The start of development and the commercial rezoning of the land immediately adjacent to our community should serve as a warning shot across the bow for all residents. It was long believed that the land behind Indian Woods and Hidden Glen Woods would one day be developed as single family homes. However, the City of Shavano Park decided it would better serve their constituents interests (and the city?’s tax receipts) to zone the land for commercial use. Because state law does not require a municipality to inform the residents of another city about planned zoning changes, our community was never informed.

By asking questions, staying informed, and weighing in on the plans and progress of development in the area, residents are beginning to address concerns raised in the community. We are working with the City of Shavano Park in an effort to assure that better communication and a good neighbor spirit pervades future interactions. Additionally, as noted in the page one article on the annual meeting, we will be working with the commercial developer to address concerns raised by community residents. We invite your participation as well.

We will continue to keep you informed through this newsletter. If you have any questions on this or other area developments please e-mail me at noblew@flash.net or call 834-1934. Thank you for your interest and involvement in our community!

BILL NOBLE