Leander Commissioners Evaluate Tree Removal for 675 Kaufman Loop Development Project

The Leander Planning and Zoning Commission convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss a significant tree removal case related to the commercial development at 675 Kaufman Loop. The meeting focused on the proposed removal of 12 significant trees as part of the site development and public improvement construction plans for the area.

Mikayla Lynn from the planning department presented the case, detailing that the property, which spans approximately 25.78 acres, is zoned as a Planned Unit Development (PUD) with both general commercial and single-family townhouse designations. The site is strategically located near State Highway 29 and is surrounded by a mix of commercial and undeveloped residential areas.

The proposal involves the removal of trees with caliper sizes ranging from 8 to 26 inches, totaling approximately 439.75 caliper inches. This represents about 21% of the total tree coverage on the site. Notably, the applicant plans to preserve around 78% of the remaining trees. Since the removal of the smaller trees (8 to 18 inches) is below the 50% threshold, no mitigation is required for those. However, for the larger trees (18 to 26 inches), the applicant has opted to pay a fee in lieu of mitigation, which is a requirement for the site development permit to be issued.

The commission's discussions highlighted the balance between development needs and environmental preservation, as the project aims to enhance both commercial and residential uses in the area while minimizing the ecological impact. The decision on the tree removal case will play a crucial role in the ongoing development of the Kaufman Loop site, reflecting the city's commitment to sustainable growth.