Cedar Park Council Denies Amendment Petition for 1701 Baghdad Road Commercial Use

The Cedar Park City Council meeting held on August 28, 2025, focused primarily on two significant agenda items: a petition for a future land use plan amendment for a property on Baghdad Road and a proposal for a future land use amendment for a larger tract on Fire Lane.

The first item discussed was a petition requesting an amendment to the future land use designation for approximately one acre located at 1701 Baghdad Road. Andrei Nadakta from Development Services presented the proposal, explaining that the current designation is inconsistent with the applicant's request to change from local office to regional office/retail commercial. The property, which currently houses a residential structure converted to office use and a food truck, is surrounded by residential areas, a church, and an elementary school. The applicant expressed a desire for more operational flexibility, including extended hours and the potential for automobile rental services.

Council members raised concerns about the implications of changing the zoning designation, particularly regarding the impact on the surrounding neighborhood. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing issues such as noise, traffic congestion, and health hazards related to an inadequate septic system. Several residents reported unpleasant odors and disturbances from the food truck operations, which they claimed disrupted their quality of life. The council ultimately voted unanimously to deny the petition, emphasizing the need to maintain the integrity of the neighborhood and adhere to existing zoning regulations.

The second agenda item involved a petition to amend the future land use plan for approximately 25.91 acres located at 1199 Fire Lane. This proposal sought to change the designation from regional office/retail commercial to industrial manufacturing. The applicant, represented by Ethan Hartwell, outlined plans for a light industrial development that would include advanced manufacturing and research facilities. The proposal also included plans for extending Little Elm Trail to improve access to the site.

Council members discussed the potential traffic implications of the proposed development, with concerns about the volume of truck traffic and its impact on nearby residential areas. The applicant assured the council that the intended use would not resemble traditional warehouse distribution centers, which typically generate higher traffic volumes. The council expressed interest in ensuring that any development would include adequate buffers and conditions to mitigate noise and light pollution.

As the meeting progressed, council members reiterated their commitment to balancing the needs of businesses with the concerns of residents. The discussions highlighted the complexities of land use planning in rapidly growing areas like Cedar Park, where the interests of developers and community members often intersect in challenging ways. The council's decisions reflected a cautious approach to maintaining the character of the neighborhoods while considering economic development opportunities.