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Lufkin Today
By the People, for the People
Lufkin Planning and Zoning Supports Marriott Hotel Special Use Permit
Hotel owners seek approval to build 90-room Marriott on empty lot between Buffalo Wild Wings and Hilton Hotel.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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The Lufkin Planning and Zoning Commission has voted to recommend the Lufkin City Council approve a special use permit for a proposed 90-room Marriott hotel. The hotel would be built on an empty lot situated between an existing Buffalo Wild Wings and a Hilton Hotel currently under development. While the commission voted in favor, the proposal sparked some community debate, with one business owner raising concerns about water security issues related to other major projects in the county.
Why it matters
The approval of this special use permit would allow for the construction of a new Marriott hotel in Lufkin's Garden District, potentially boosting the local economy and tourism. However, the concerns raised by community members about water security and property easements highlight the need to balance development with the interests of existing businesses and residents.
The details
The proposed Marriott hotel would be a four-story building with 90 rooms, operating under Marriott ownership. The hotel would be built on an empty lot situated between an existing Buffalo Wild Wings and a Hilton Hotel that is currently under development. The Lufkin Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-1 to recommend the city council approve the special use permit, despite one opposition letter and concerns raised by community members about potential noise, lighting, and water security issues.
- The Lufkin Planning and Zoning Commission voted on the special use permit on Monday, February 10, 2026.
- The Lufkin City Council is scheduled to vote on the special use permit during its meeting on February 17, 2026.
The players
Alaina Helton
The city planner for Lufkin, Texas.
Jack Ellis
A commissioner on the Lufkin Planning and Zoning Commission.
What they’re saying
“You're granting permits for the hotel, and you're negotiating for data centers that demand five billion gallons a day. You're gambling with the water security of my business and my home. I'm asking you to halt all new high usage permits including this hotel until a full public water study proves we aren't running our families dry.”
— A business owner on Atkinson Drive
“I'm not objecting. I love for hotels to come into our community. It's just the fact that they're allowed to have an easement where there wasn't an easement that is taking property of our lot.”
— A business owner
What’s next
The Lufkin City Council will vote on the special use permit during its meeting on February 17, 2026. Council approval is required before construction can begin on the Marriott hotel.
The takeaway
The proposed Marriott hotel has garnered both support and concerns from the Lufkin community. While the Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval, the city council will need to carefully weigh the potential economic benefits against the concerns raised about water security and property rights in order to make a decision that balances the interests of all stakeholders.
