Killeen: City wants residents to share feedback in unique way

KILLEEN, Texas (KWTX) - The City of Killeen is updating the comprehensive plan, and as part of that, it’s looking for feedback from residents. This week, people have a unique opportunity to get out into the city to participate.

Killeen is holding a series of “walkshops” where residents can meet with city staff and members of a consultant team to walk through their neighborhood and talk about any likes and dislikes.

The city has been working with Verdunity, a consulting company in Dallas, on the updates to the comprehensive plan. In addition to the walkshops, there have also been surveys and meetings over the last six months.

Kevin Shepherd, president and CEO of Verdunity, said even though they’ve gotten other feedback, they wanted the opportunity to meet with people this morning.

“That’s the best input we usually get, from interacting directly with individuals on their turf, where they can show us this matters and this is why,” Shepherd said. “That gives us a much better, deeper understanding.”

The first of the walkshops was Monday morning in downtown Killeen. Around a dozen residents and staff members walked the streets, discussing what they liked about the area, as well as concerns.

Albert Galbrath, one of the residents who attended, said he wants to see more people in the downtown area.

“We’re trying to bring more people downtown, which is a good thing,” Galbrath said. “And the more we can get people downtown and see the businesses operating here, it helps the city as well.”

Some residents expressed concerns that there weren’t any businesses downtown that would bring people to the area, and keep them coming back. Without stores and businesses, several residents said there isn’t a reason for people to come downtown, even if they want to.

Louie Minor, a member of the comprehensive planning committee and planning and zoning commission, said that’s something the city hopes to change about the area.

“Over the weekend, everyone goes to Austin, everyone goes to Waco and they leave the city so we need to capture those dollars,” Minor said. “They’re leaving the city every weekend from the military, and even families, so we owe it to the citizens of Killeen to do that.”

There are several other walkshops scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tuesday, June 29

Yowell Ranch 8 – 10 a.m. Greyfriar Drave at Shimla Drive

Jasper Heights 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Donnie Avenue at Mockingbird Lane

Alamocitos 5 – 7 p.m. Alamocitos Creek Drive at Bunny Trail

Wednesday, June 30

North Killeen 8 – 10 a.m. Whitlow Drive at Williamson Drive

Thunder Creek 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Thunder Creek Drive at Waterfall Drive

If you’re not able to make it to one of the walkshops, you can also share feedback by phone to 254-501-6650 or email to comprehensiveplan@killeentexas.gov. You can find additional information about the comprehensive plan update online.

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