HERC expansion rezoning approved; variances for chain‑link fencing and gravel parking fail

Planning commissioners approved a rezoning request by NNN REIT LP of Arkansas to bring an A‑1 parcel into C‑5 commercial to align with a proposed expansion by HERC Rentals, but two requested variances tied to screening and surfacing failed.

Planning staff recommended rezoning to C‑5 to support regional commercial uses and to align the property with an adjacent development plan. Staff also said the property must be rezoned before final approvals and noted that access agreements and drainage easements around an existing private storm sewer will be required.

HERC Rentals representatives requested two variances: one to allow chain‑link fencing (with razor wire/security) in lieu of the commercial design standard that requires high‑quality materials, and another to allow a gravel storage/parking surface instead of full paving. Nearby property owners and tenants objected at the hearing, citing aesthetics, property‑value concerns, and that older provisions in the code allowing gravel for equipment yards were limited by size, setback and screening requirements; objectors emphasized that the subject lot is about 1.6 acres and would not meet the smaller limits for gravel equipment yards cited in the code.

The commission first took the screening variance to a vote and it failed (4–4 tie). The paving/surface variance also failed on a recorded vote (8–0 noted in the transcript summary as failing). The large‑scale expansion was advanced subject to staff comments after commissioners heard that the applicant would dedicate necessary drainage easements and work on access agreements; the rezoning passed 8–0.

Staff reminded the applicant the commission’s denial of the variances could be appealed to City Council within 15 days and outlined the appeal process.