The City Council faced significant debate over designating Running Rope Ranch in Northwest Austin as a historic site, with only five of 11 members voting in favor. The ranch, once a community hub for youth, was home to former Army Capt. Warren P. Knox. While preservation experts noted that two smaller structures on the property met historic qualifications, the main house did not. The proposal faced strong opposition from the owner, resulting in a split decision, despite unanimous support from the Historic Landmark Commission due to evidence of Native American habitation.
Despite strong statements of support for historic zoning from two of the newest members of City Council, fewer than half voted in favor of designating Running Rope Ranch as historic.
Mayor Watson, Mayor Pro Tem Fuentes and Council Member Velázquez voted to designate the property as historic despite opposition from the owner, Jimmy Nassour.
Carter Design Associates' report noted that while the main residence did not qualify for historic designation, two smaller, older structures did meet the criteria.
The Historic Landmark Commission voted unanimously to grant the historic designation, citing evidence of Native American habitation and two small historic buildings.
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