Planning Director Nabi Leonard recommends denial of Centerville convenience store development

During the recent Garland City Council meeting, discussions centered on a proposed development at 2000 East Centerville Road, a 1.85-acre site within a larger 10-acre parcel zoned for community retail. Nabi Leonard, the director of planning and development, presented plans for a 4,300 square foot convenience store with 10 fueling pumps. This proposal comes at a time when the city is experiencing significant residential growth, with a 300-unit multifamily development currently under construction nearby.

Leonard emphasized the importance of this site, noting that Garland is 97% built out, leaving few opportunities for new developments. He highlighted the potential for the entire 10-acre parcel to serve as a vibrant community gathering space, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan that calls for neighborhood centers offering a mix of retail services.

However, Leonard recommended denying the convenience store and fuel pumps, arguing that the proposal does not fit the vision outlined in the comprehensive plan. He pointed out that there are already sufficient fuel services in the area, including a smaller gas station nearby, and suggested that the site could be better utilized for a more community-focused development.

Public feedback on the proposal was mixed, with 12 responses received—11 in favor from outside the notification area and one in opposition from within it. The council members engaged in discussions about the implications of adding another convenience store in a city already served by existing gas stations.

As the city continues to grow, the council faces the challenge of balancing development with community needs. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for future developments in Garland, emphasizing the importance of aligning new projects with the city’s long-term vision for community spaces.