Planning commission approves amended site plan for mini‑warehouse, grants variance on 276 landscape requirements

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved an amended site plan for a proposed mini‑warehouse facility on a 3.682‑acre parcel and considered a variance to landscape and berm standards along Highway 276.

Staff said the property is in Planned Development District 10 and within the 205 Bypass and 276 Overlay Districts. The commission previously granted variances for building materials and roof design; an amended site plan was approved in January 2023. The applicant later requested an update to the landscape plan after utility provider Atmos raised concerns about plantings within a 50‑foot easement along Highway 276.

The revised plan replaces required canopy and accent trees in the easement with smaller shrubbery and an 18–24‑inch berm, which does not meet the referenced standards that may call for a 30–48‑inch berm and a higher count of canopy/accent trees per linear frontage. The applicant proposed compensatory measures: relocating trees to other areas of the site, adding four additional accent trees along John King Boulevard, expanding the 276 landscape buffer from 15 feet to 35 feet, and doubling required shrub plantings along 276. Staff confirmed compliance with tree mitigation requirements and noted the amended plan aligns with the UDC's intent, but the variance decision is discretionary for the commission and requires a supermajority.

Brian Baca, representing ADV Rockwell and John King Property Owner, LLC, answered commission questions. Commissioner Hastings moved to approve SP2025‑001 with staff recommendations; the commission approved the motion 7–0. Because the approvals follow previously granted variances and staff‑recommended compensatory measures, the project is proceeding with civil plans, final platting and ongoing construction.