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Commission approves rezoning of ~59.5 acres for industrial tracts; neighbors raised traffic and lighting concerns
Summary
The commission voted to rezone roughly 59.5 acres (annexed parcels) into portions of PDD 181 to allow light and heavy industrial uses for Rolling Plains EV Stations LLC; staff recommended approval but three written oppositions cited traffic and property-value concerns and residents spoke at the hearing.
The Abilene Planning and Zoning Commission approved an amendment to Planned Development District 181 to incorporate approximately 59.5 acres recently annexed to the city, placing parts of the property into tracts permitting light and heavy industrial uses. The application was represented by Rolling Plains EV Stations LLC.
Adam Holland, planner for the City of Abilene, said staff found the rezoning consistent with the comprehensive plan, surrounding zoning and the Land Development Code and recommended approval. Holland reported three written oppositions within the notification area; one specifically raised concerns about traffic, road damage and effects on property values.
Charles Baucham, a nearby resident, spoke against the rezoning and said he has gathered a list of roughly two dozen neighbors opposed to industrialization. Baucham cited poor road conditions on Spinks Road and FM 2404, concerns about increased heavy-truck traffic, possible permanent lighting and noise and potential impacts on property values. He also said older residents in the area do not want adjacent industrial uses.
Espin Johansen of Landseum, speaking for the applicant, said there were no immediate plans to construct facilities and that the applicant intends to provide new access from Clack Street once property acquisition steps are complete; he distinguished the proposed uses from a nearby Bitcoin-mining operation that generates noise.
Commissioners observed the commission’s role is primarily land use and recommended neighbors raise road and traffic issues with TxDOT, county roads or the city; they noted the applicant must meet buffer and zoning requirements. Commissioner Halliburton moved to approve; Commissioner Kiker seconded. The roll call vote was recorded: Commissioner Barnett — yes; Commissioner House — yes; Commissioner Kiker — yes; Commissioner Halliburton — yes; Commissioner Lewis — yes; Commissioner Benham — yes. The motion carried.
Staff will forward the commission’s recommendation consistent with the LDC; neighbors were advised to request traffic studies or raise road-maintenance concerns with relevant agencies.
