During the Derby City Council meeting on March 25, 2025, a significant discussion centered around a proposed zone change for a 36.43-acre property located at the southwest corner of 50 Fifth Street and Rock Road. The city planner, Scott Kanable, presented the application to change the zoning from R-1 (single-family residential) to R-2 (two-family residential) and B-3 (general business district).

The property, which was annexed by the city in November of the previous year, is part of an area identified as experiencing major growth. The proposed B-3 zoning would allow for commercial development, including restaurants and retail stores, aligning with existing properties along Rock Road. Meanwhile, the R-2 zoning would permit both two-family and single-family residences, catering to the increasing housing demand in the region.

Kanable highlighted that the planning commission's recommendation included a transition policy from a joint area plan developed with the city of Wichita. This policy aims to maintain a buffer between urban growth and adjacent suburban acreages, such as those in Firefly Estates. As a result, the recommendation suggests that the westernmost 50 feet of the property remain zoned for single-family residences to preserve the character of the surrounding area.

The discussions during the meeting reflect the city's efforts to balance growth and development with the needs of existing residents. The council's decision on this zoning change will have lasting implications for the community's landscape and housing options. As Derby continues to expand, the outcomes of such meetings will be crucial in shaping the future of the city.