Leander planning commission approves rezoning for 4.68-acre parcel near Ronald Reagan Boulevard

The City of Leander Planning and Zoning Commission approved a request to rezone a 4.68-acre parcel northwest of the intersection of Ronald Reagan Boulevard and East Crystal Falls Parkway from interim single-family districts to GC-3-C (general commercial) at its meeting (date not specified).

The zoning change applies to Williamson Central Appraisal District parcel R031240. "The proposal does comply with the comprehensive plan and is appropriate for properties located in a neighborhood center category identified by the plan," Sydney Hanson, assistant planner, said in the staff presentation. Staff said the site is adjacent to existing commercial uses and would align zoning with neighboring properties.

Hanson described the surrounding uses as including a tree removal business (listed in the packet as Davie Tree Expert Company), a mini-storage facility (Pleasant Hills Storage), and a gas station (Refuel). Certified notice letters were sent on 01/28/2025 to all residentially zoned properties within 500 feet; staff reported no concerns were raised, although several letters were returned to sender.

Commissioners discussed whether to approve the GC-3-C zoning or adopt a more restrictive GC-2-C site component because the parcel backs to an existing single-family lot. "Overall I do think it is appropriate rezoning, you know, wanting to be a neighborhood center," Commissioner Morales said, noting the need to be a “courteous neighbor” given an adjoining home. Vice Chair Colon noted staff provided three options — approve as proposed, deny, or approve with more restrictive site components — and said he was "more inclined to approve a GC type 2-C versus a GC-3" because GC-3 site-component language can allow certain outdoor storage or displays that may be visible from nearby residences.

After discussion, Vice Chair Colon moved to approve the rezoning to GC-3-C; Commissioner Landrip seconded the motion. The commission voted in favor and the motion passed among those present. The applicant did not present a site plan at the hearing and staff said no formal development proposal has been submitted for the parcel.

The change clears the way for future commercial development consistent with the city's comprehensive-plan land-use designation for the site. Staff and commissioners noted additional site-level standards (setbacks, screening and buffering) would apply at the development-review stage.