The Rockwall Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6 to 1 on Oct. 14 to recommend approval of a specific-use permit for an indoor commercial amusement and recreation business (an arcade focused on claw/prize machines) at 2071 Summerlee Drive in the Harbor Rockwall addition.

The request, filed by Sarong Ching of Joyful Claw LLC on behalf of property owner PA Harbor Retail LLC, would place an approximately 4,800-square-foot arcade in Suite R103 of a portion of a 12.89-acre parcel zoned Planned Development District 7 for limited general retail uses. Staff said the submittal now meets the conditional-use standards in the Unified Development Code and that staff received no notices of opposition from the 69 property owners and occupants notified within 500 feet.

Bethany, a city planner, told commissioners the applicant refiled the case on Sept. 12 with additional materials — updated renderings, a floor plan and videos of similar arcades — after the commission in August had recommended denial because it considered the original submittal incomplete. The approval of a specific-use permit is discretionary for City Council pending the commission’s recommendation.

Commission discussion focused on whether the concept fits the Harbor’s live-work-play character, how the business might evolve and local market demand. Commissioner Roth said the use “is part of the play,” describing it as an entertainment option that could draw families already visiting the Harbor. Commissioner Hastings moved to approve; Commissioner Brock seconded. The motion passed 6 to 1, with Commissioner Hageman voting no.

The applicant representatives who spoke at the hearing included Hunter Hayes and Jeff Carter; Carter described the layout shown in the renderings and explained the smaller-format arcade proposed compared with larger entertainment centers. The commission did not receive public comment in opposition at the hearing.

Because the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation is advisory, the final decision will be made by the Rockwall City Council at a later date. If approved by council, the SUP will authorize the arcade use subject to any conditions the council adopts.

Votes and next steps: The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for final action; no council vote was taken at the Planning and Zoning meeting.

Details: Address — 2071 Summerlee Drive; parcel portion of 12.89 acres; proposed suite size ~4,800 sq. ft.; notices mailed — 69; SUP refiled Sept. 12 after August recommendation to deny.