The McKinney City Council voted unanimously Nov. 4 to approve a specific use permit allowing vehicle sales to be conducted inside an existing building at the southeast corner of Powerhouse Street and Mercury Circle.

Lucas Raley, director of planning, told the council the property is not currently allowed to sell automobiles and that the SUP request would permit sales conducted inside the building. "Currently, the site is not allowed to sell automobiles," Raley said, adding the applicant proposes using about four interior parking spaces for sales. He told council members the use would not include outdoor display.

A council member asked whether vehicles approved for sale might be stored outside or on the street; Raley said the SUP would require storage inside and that the four interior spaces described in staff comments are the only spaces the permit brings up. Raley also noted state requirements for licensing and verification: "State of Texas requires licenses and zoning verification letters," he said.

Councilman Ballard moved to close the public hearing and approve the item as recommended by staff. Councilman Cloutier seconded the motion. The council voted in favor; the mayor announced the motion carried with five votes in favor and none opposed.

The SUP approval allows indoor vehicle sales at the site as described to planning staff. Raley said there would be no changes to the site’s exterior as part of the permit and that vehicles sold under the permit must be stored inside the building in the designated spaces. The council did not adopt additional conditions beyond staff recommendations on the record.