Rockwall City Planning Commission tables mini warehouse and gun range proposals for further review

The Rockwall Planning and Zoning Commission has decided to table a proposal for a mini warehouse facility for two weeks, allowing the applicant time to address concerns raised by the Architectural Review Board (ARB). The proposal included a request for additional storage units that would exceed the maximum allowed under current conditional land use standards. Specifically, the applicant sought to increase the number of units from 625 to 706, which raised significant concerns regarding compliance with landscaping and architectural standards.

The ARB recommended denial of the proposal due to the use of materials that did not meet the overlay district standards, particularly the request for board and batten siding, which has not been previously approved for nonresidential developments in the area. The board emphasized the need for a design that aligns with the architectural character of recent developments nearby, advocating for more glass and storefront features to create a more office-like appearance.

In a separate discussion, the commission reviewed a site plan for a private indoor gun range proposed by Rayburn Electric Cooperative. This facility is planned for a 1.407-acre portion of a larger tract and is designed to meet most of the Unified Development Code requirements. However, the applicant requested a variance regarding landscape buffer requirements, citing the site's topography. The commission is expected to take action on this proposal in the coming weeks.

The decision to table the mini warehouse proposal reflects the commission's commitment to ensuring that new developments adhere to community standards and aesthetics, while the gun range proposal highlights ongoing efforts to diversify land use in Rockwall. The commission will reconvene on April 29 to further discuss these matters.