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Commission backs variances for multiple Highland Terrace lots; votes largely split on corner‑lot exception
Summary
The commission approved a series of near‑identical variances for lots in Highland Terrace Mobile Home Park to accommodate single‑family construction on small lots; two identical variance requests passed (6–1 and unanimous) and a corner‑lot setback reduction passed 6–1.
The Planning and Zoning Commission on April 22 recommended approval of several variance requests for lots in Highland Terrace Mobile Home Park, a subdivision annexed to Keller decades ago in which many lots are smaller than current SF‑36 development standards.
Staff told the commission E‑3 and E‑4 were identical variance applications to permit smaller front setbacks, reduce minimum dwelling size to 2,000 square feet, increase main building lot coverage to 35 percent (from 30), and increase maximum lot coverage to 55 percent (from 50). Staff said 24 other lots in the subdivision previously received similar approvals.
Commissioners voted to recommend approval of item E‑3 (Lot 63) by a 6–1 vote and unanimously approved item E‑4 (Lot 62). Item E‑5, a corner lot at 1827 Highland Drive East, sought a further reduction of the front‑yard setback from 25 feet to 20 feet on the southern frontage; the commission recommended approval of that request 6–1 as well. Staff explained the corner‑lot rules require the front‑yard setback to be observed along both intersecting streets unless otherwise specified on the final plat, which is why the corner lot request was considered separately.
The applications do not require public hearings under the UDC; the public had an opportunity to speak during the meeting’s persons‑to‑be‑heard portion. Commissioners noted the subdivision was platted in 1970 and annexed later; many lots cannot meet SF‑36 standards without variances. Several members described the approvals as “business as usual” given the long history of similar variances in Highland Terrace.
All recommended motions will be forwarded to City Council on the May 20 agenda for final action.
