Planning commission selects nonconforming uses and structures for August joint boards presentation

The DeSoto Planning and Zoning Commission voted to prioritize a discussion of nonconforming uses and structures as the commission’s project for a joint meeting with the City Council, the DeSoto Development Corporation, the Parks and Recreation Board and the Cultural Arts Foundation in August.

Staff presented a list of suggested topics for the August joint meeting, including the Hampton Road character code, citywide text amendments affecting nonconforming uses and structures, comprehensive plan implementation, changes to the zoning ordinance to allow additional housing types (for example triplexes and fourplexes), and several zoning cases including Benbrook Trails and a Curtis Parks zone change. The commission discussed the list in limited, high-level terms in keeping with direction from the city attorney’s office to restrain detailed deliberations at this stage.

Commissioners expressed support for aligning text amendments with recent high-visibility cases such as the Hampton Road work and for using the joint meeting to review the recently adopted comprehensive plan alongside other boards and commissions. After discussion, the chair summarized the commission’s preference: “The nonconforming use of structures.” Staff said it would compile information and submit materials by a June 20 deadline and that the joint boards meeting is scheduled for August 20; staff also said it would prepare presentation slides and return a draft to the commission for refinement.

Staff clarified that some Hampton Road character-code standards apply only within that district while topics such as nonconforming structures would be citywide if adopted. Commissioners asked high-level questions about trends, including whether there is demand for mixed-use projects on sites smaller than 3 acres; staff confirmed there have been inquiries on smaller mixed-use proposals.

The commission also heard that two zoning cases (including a Curtis Parks zone change at 409 East Parkerville Road and Benbrook Trails) and the Hampton Road item are expected to be public hearings at upcoming meetings. Staff said the new city planning director started recently and the city manager is scheduled to attend the June meeting.

The selection was recorded as the commission’s consensus rather than a formal motion; staff will prepare materials for the August joint meeting and return a draft presentation to the commission at a subsequent meeting.