Forney City Council Approves Lake Pointe Church Property Rezoning and EVO Sign Regulations

The Forney City Council convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss significant zoning amendments that could reshape parts of the community. One of the key topics was the approval of an ordinance to amend the zoning for approximately 8.233 acres of land surrounding Lake Pointe Church. This area, previously designated for church use, will now be repurposed to include a neighborhood service district and single-family residential lots.

The proposed changes involve 1.893 acres along FM 741, which will be designated as a neighborhood service district, while the remaining 6.43 acres will be rezoned for single-family residential development, requiring a minimum lot size of 10,000 square feet. The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously reviewed the proposal and recommended approval, noting that it aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan. Although one resident expressed concerns about potential crime and congestion, no additional public comments were made during the hearing.

In another significant discussion, the council considered amendments to the sign regulations for the upcoming EVO Entertainment facility, located within the Village Gateway Planned Development District. The proposed changes include a 100-foot sign tower that is architecturally integrated into the building's design. While there were initial concerns about setting a precedent for similar requests from other businesses, it was clarified that the amendment would apply solely to the EVO property.

The applicant, Chris Hipps of Direct Retail Partners, emphasized the importance of the sign for visibility and traffic attraction, noting that similar structures have been successfully implemented in other entertainment venues. The Planning and Zoning Commission also unanimously recommended approval of this amendment.

Both discussions reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to adapt to community needs and enhance local development. The council's decisions will likely have lasting impacts on the area's growth and the quality of life for residents, as they continue to shape Forney's landscape and economic opportunities.