In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a rezone request for a portion of Bervin's Addition, located south of Duinach Incorporated and east of Hobby Lobby along 31st Street Southeast. The property, currently zoned as I-1 Light Industrial, includes an existing residence that was legally nonconforming when the area was annexed.

The proposal seeks to rezone the property to C-3 Highway Commercial District, which would align with the city’s long-term development strategy for the area. The existing property measures 21,631 square feet, which does not meet the 30,000 square feet requirement for the I-1 district but conforms to the 20,000 square feet requirement for the C-3 district. The property owner plans to remove the residence and existing septic system, replacing it with a sealed holding tank for future commercial use, likely a storage shop.

During the meeting, officials noted that 31st Street is not currently improved to city standards. The applicant will sign a waiver regarding the right to protest any future improvements, but will be required to contribute to the costs if upgrades occur.

The discussion also highlighted the necessity of a replat upon rezoning, ensuring that the property meets city standards and avoids creating nonconformities. Officials expressed concerns about piecemeal development, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive planning to prevent landlocked parcels and ensure orderly growth.

The meeting included a public hearing, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the rezone request. The officials reiterated that the rezone aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, which favors commercial development along the highway corridor.