GALVESTON — The owner of a masonry business man is suing the city of La Marque, alleging he was prohibited from building his business on land he had purchased.
James Neal and Craftsman Masonry Inc filed a lawsuit Jan. 14 in Galveston County District Court against the city of La Marque, Carol Butler, city manager, Robin Eldrige, city clerk, and Robert Hocking, La Marque's mayor, seeking immediate remedy.
According to the complaint, Neal purchased land in La Marque Heights in 1998 with the understanding and the express assurance of the then-city manager that the land would be suitable for business actions of Craftsman Masonry. Since then, however, the suit says the plaintiff has been informed the land is not zoned for such operations and he cannot sell the land for use at this time.
The plaintiff alleges damages for the land's loss of value and says the city has refused his requests of variance on the agenda, thus delaying any developments.
Neal seeks writ of mandamus, as well as an order abating the present action and retaining jurisdiction until it can be heard by the city council. Additionally, he seeks compensation of legal fees. He is represented by attorney Mark W. Stevens of Galveston.
Galveston County District Court Case number 16-CV-0051