The council considered a developer’s request to change the land use of 4.04 acres at 711 South Robinson Drive from commercial to high‑density residential and to rezone the property to Multifamily‑2 (MF‑2), the city’s highest‑density residential district.

City staff opposed the land‑use change and the rezoning, citing that the parcel sits in the middle of a commercial land‑use area, that there is no existing high‑density residential nearby, and that placing a high‑density residential use in a commercial zone could create conflicts including noise, light and other impacts. Staff also noted Planning & Zoning Commission recommended denial (2‑2 tie) at its Aug. 21 meeting.

Jeff Brown, the applicant and a lifelong Robinson resident, presented a proposal he described as a $10 million project that would provide market‑rate multifamily housing at “20 units per acre,” include onsite amenities and meet required landscaping, buffering, stormwater and drainage standards. Brown said the development would support local businesses and keep workers in Robinson, and he estimated rents “maybe $900 ish. And up to $1,500.”

Council debate was lengthy and divided. Several councilmembers said Robinson needs more workforce and affordable rental housing and urged the city to allow development in locations with highway access and services. Others raised concerns about the parcel’s sole vehicular entrance and exit, traffic and safety with only one access point, compatibility with surrounding commercial uses and the precedent of allowing high‑density residential in the middle of a commercial district. Multiple councilmembers noted TxDOT requirements for access and the need to meet stormwater engineering before any development density could be finalized.

After debate, the council voted to approve the land‑use change that reclassifies the 4.04‑acre site as high‑density residential. Council later considered a rezoning ordinance to change the zoning from light commercial (C‑1) to MF‑2; the motion to rezone did not pass.

The record shows robust public participation: the applicant and multiple local developers and residents spoke in favor of allowing the multifamily project; letters of opposition were mentioned in the record and several councilmembers referenced constituent concerns about location and traffic. Staff and the Planning & Zoning Commission provided written findings and recommendations in the meeting packet; staff’s recommendation was to deny based on comprehensive‑plan criteria.