Leander City Council Approves Zoning Changes and Considers Law Enforcement Agreement

Leander City Council made significant strides in its July 17, 2025, meeting, focusing on zoning amendments and a new collective bargaining agreement for law enforcement.

The council unanimously approved several consent agenda items before moving to a contentious zoning case. The second reading of the Barksdale Phase 3 zoning request aimed to amend the zoning of 52.92 acres from interim single-family residential to single-family compact and suburban classifications. Despite previous concerns, the council ultimately passed the motion with a vote of 3 to 2, reflecting ongoing discussions about maintaining consistency in zoning regulations.

In another key decision, the council discussed a three-year meet and confer agreement between the City of Leander and the Leander Law Enforcement Association, set to begin on October 1, 2025. The agreement includes provisions for base salary adjustments, additional compensation for certifications and on-call duties, and measures for sick leave payouts and disciplinary actions. While the city manager highlighted the productive negotiations, the council opted to take no action on the agreement, allowing for further discussions to finalize details before approval.

Additionally, the council directed the publication of a notice for a public hearing regarding the issuance of combination tax and revenue certificates of obligation, a step in the financing plan approved in June. This resolution aims to ensure transparency and community involvement in the city's financial decisions.

These discussions reflect the council's commitment to addressing community needs through careful planning and negotiation, setting the stage for future developments in Leander.