Leander commission approves microtrenching standards for fiber deployment, keeps limits on trenches

The City of Leander Planning & Zoning Commission voted to approve a proposed amendment to the composite zoning ordinance to adopt standards and a permitting process for microtrenching — a narrow trenching method used to install fiber — and to forward the ordinance case (OR‑25‑0030) in its approved form.

Planning staff presented a draft ordinance modeled on Round Rock’s rules and said the goal is to provide a faster, less intrusive method to bring fiber to older neighborhoods that currently lack modern underground infrastructure. Staff explained microtrenching would not be allowed in new subdivisions while a two‑year construction warranty applies; the draft also prescribes technical trench details to avoid conflicts with existing utilities and requires a concrete flow sealant after trenching.

Bird Holmquist, director of external and legislative affairs for AT&T, spoke in support of most of the draft but urged two substantive changes: allow multiple providers to microtrench on a single roadway (rather than first‑come, first‑served single‑provider access) and change a proposed combined limit on “dry utility” permit applications so providers could hold at least 10 permits in each category rather than a single cumulative cap. Holmquist said overly restrictive trench limits could reduce competition and slow deployment.

Commission discussion covered those concerns and practical public‑works issues. Staff and several commissioners noted technical constraints: multiple providers stacking conduits in the same narrow trench would require deeper cuts, complicate repairs and security, and could slow deployment because of coordination needs. Commissioners suggested possible follow‑up actions, including later amending the ordinance if experience warrants and exploring alternatives such as limited additional trenches or modified warranty terms.

The commission approved the ordinance as proposed by staff and the motion carried (motion to approve by the vice chair; second by Commissioner Lewis). Commissioners also asked staff to return with additional analysis and potential alternatives, including the possibility of allowing a second trench per side and reviewing warranty durations tied to additional trenching.

Key technical and policy points recorded at the hearing: the draft ordinance mirrors Round Rock standards; microtrenching is prohibited in subdivisions still under the developer’s warranty (two years); staff recommended markers (a curb button) to identify which provider has trench rights on a street; and the sealant specified is a concrete flow product intended to blend with the existing pavement.

Speakers quoted in this article are drawn from the meeting record and include planning staff, a telecom industry representative and commissioners.