Flower Mound Council reviews Hindu temple site plan and exception requests

The Flower Mound Town Council meeting on July 7, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding a proposed Hindu temple, which has garnered overwhelming community support. Council members noted receiving an unprecedented 150 emails in favor of the temple, with no opposition expressed, highlighting the strong backing from residents for this religious assembly institution.

The proposed site plan includes a one-story building of over 9,000 square feet, located on the west side of Old Settlers Road, adjacent to Flower Mound High School. The council addressed two key exceptions related to the project: a compatibility buffer and a request for a flat roof design. The compatibility buffer is typically required to provide a transition between residential and non-residential uses, but due to the narrow width of the property, the council is considering a reduced buffer to allow for necessary access.

The flat roof request is particularly noteworthy, as it aligns with traditional Hindu architectural guidelines that dictate specific design elements essential for worship. The temple's representatives explained that a flat roof is crucial for maintaining the spiritual integrity of the building, allowing for proper alignment and acoustics during services. Similar designs have been successfully implemented in other North Texas cities, such as Frisco and Plano.

In addition to the architectural discussions, the council also reviewed a tree removal permit, with plans to remove three specimen trees to accommodate the development. The Environmental Conservation Commission has recommended approval for this request.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed interest in exploring potential collaborations with the nearby Flower Mound High School to streamline access to the temple, which could benefit both the temple and the surrounding community.

The outcome of this meeting marks a pivotal step in the development of the Hindu temple, reflecting the town's commitment to accommodating diverse religious practices while considering the needs of the local community. The council's next steps will involve further discussions on the proposed exceptions and the overall impact of the temple on the neighborhood.