In a recent City Council meeting held on December 2, 2024, the Fate City Council discussed a significant zoning change request that could reshape the local landscape. The proposal, presented by Ryan Wells, the Director of Planning and Development Services, seeks to rezone a property from agriculture to heavy industrial to facilitate the construction of a new self-storage facility.

The project, known as the 5 Star Storage Fate, aims to build a three-story, air-conditioned self-storage facility covering over 55,000 square feet. This change is necessary due to the updated Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) from January 2023, which now categorizes self-storage facilities under heavy industrial zoning. The site, located on Industrial Drive, consists of two 1.5-acre lots that will need to be replatted into a single lot to accommodate the new building.

Wells outlined the approval criteria for the zoning request, emphasizing that the proposal aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, which designates the area as a business and innovation center. This designation supports heavier industrial uses, making the zoning change compatible with the surrounding neighborhood, which includes various commercial and industrial operations.

The council also reviewed a specific use permit (SUP) required for the self-storage facility. This permit is essential as it allows for the operation of the facility within the heavy industrial zone. The proposal includes requests for two variances: a reduction in the minimum parking spaces and a waiver of the first-floor glazing requirement, which is typically mandated for non-residential buildings to enhance street presence. However, the nature of the self-storage facility, which prioritizes security, makes the glazing requirement less applicable.

Public notices were sent to nearby property owners, but no responses were received, indicating a lack of opposition to the project. A fiscal analysis presented during the meeting estimated that the facility could generate approximately $20,000 in property taxes in its first year, with a net revenue of about $9,600 after accounting for service costs.

The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended approval of both the zoning change and the specific use permit, with conditions that include the requirement for a Type 3 site plan, which allows for public input and further scrutiny of the project.

As the council deliberates on this proposal, the outcome could significantly impact the city’s economic landscape, providing new storage options while contributing to local tax revenues. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential votes on the zoning change and specific use permit in upcoming meetings.