Episode 106

full
Published on:

12th Dec 2025

Future of South San Antonio: Gilley Mendoza on Workforce Housing, Development, and Villaret Commons

Developer Gilley Mendoza, founder of Gilley International, joins The Building Texas Show to discuss how intentional, community-driven development is reshaping the future of South San Antonio. From the rapid growth around Palo Alto College and Texas A&M University–San Antonio, to the expansion of Toyota, JCB, and other advanced manufacturing employers, the South Side is becoming one of Texas’ most important economic corridors.

In this episode, Gilley breaks down his development strategy, including his new 80-unit Villaret Commons project positioned directly across from Palo Alto College. He explains why “approachable housing,” workforce alignment, school quality, and smart infrastructure matter more than ever as Texas absorbs massive population growth.

If you want to understand San Antonio real estate trends, the future of South Side development, or the emerging Texas Triangle economy, this is a must-watch discussion.

Learn more:

Villaret Commons – https://villaretcommons.com

The Building Texas Show – https://buildingtexasshow.com

00:00 Introduction

00:17 Meet Developer Gilley Mendoza

00:35 How Real Estate Became a Career Path

01:40 First Development Deal and Lessons Learned

02:55 Why the South Side Is the Future of San Antonio Growth

04:22 The Impact of Palo Alto College and Texas A&M–San Antonio

05:42 Water, Infrastructure, and Development Challenges

07:25 Inside the 80-Unit Villaret Commons Project

08:32 Growing Gilley International into a Multi-Generational Brand

10:35 Community Feedback and Responsible Development

12:45 Housing Market Trends, Interest Rates, and Builder Strategy

14:47 The Coming Housing Shortage and Workforce Needs

15:57 How Workforce Data Shapes Site Selection

18:19 The Texas Triangle and Secondary Market Opportunities

19:01 Why Approachable Housing Matters in Texas Growth

20:47 Schools, Workforce Retention, and Long-Term Community Strength

23:07 Overcoming Barriers and Re-Earning Community Trust

23:59 Closing Thoughts


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About the Podcast

The Building Texas Show
The Building Texas Show with host, Justin McKenzie, about the balance of business and governance. Each week, we’ll interview the local leaders affecting the issues and uncover the power you have to forge the future.

www.buildingtexasshow.com

About your host

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Justin McKenzie

Based in Boerne, Texas, Justin hosts The Building Texas Show—a podcast spotlighting the bold minds shaping the future of the Lone Star State. When he’s not building teams or building momentum, he’s out exploring, discovering new ideas, or connecting with the people who make it all worthwhile.

As Chief Operating Officer at Charity Ace, Justin helps shape the engine behind the mission—bringing sharp strategy and innovative structure to fuel long-term growth. He believes in business as a force for good, and shows up every day to prove what’s possible when purpose meets execution.