Keller commission recommends PD amendment to allow AutoZone at Bercy Park, 5–1
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Summary
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5–1 to recommend a planned-development amendment allowing AutoZone to occupy an existing building in Bercy Park (Track 2); neighbors raised concerns about back-of-building drives, hazardous-waste handling, lighting and the bright orange facade, and AutoZone agreed to revised earth-tone elevations.
The Keller Planning and Zoning Commission on Nov. 11 recommended City Council consider a planned-development amendment to add 'auto parts sales' as a by-right use for Track 2 of the Bercy Park planned development (PD-1092 Retail), clearing the way for an AutoZone store in a long-vacant 8,160-square-foot building.
Staff explained the PD amendment is necessary because the original PD’s retail-use chart does not list automobile-parts retail (not even by SUP); amending the PD would allow the use by right rather than requiring a later SUP. The UDC requires one parking space per 400 square feet for enclosed auto-parts retail, producing a requirement of 21 spaces for this site; staff said 43 regular and two accessible spaces exist on the lot.
AutoZone representatives showed updated elevations with earth-tone colors after outreach to two council members and neighborhood feedback; the applicant’s representative, Carolyn O’Brien, said the company would not perform vehicle repairs on-site and would not add a rear drive. "We're not gonna put a drive behind there," O’Brien said when asked by a nearby resident.
Resident Charlotte Leo, whose backyard abuts the property, asked whether a drive would be added, how hazardous wastes (batteries, chemicals) would be handled and whether deliveries or trash pickups would create late-night noise. Applicant reps said they expect deliveries and trash pickup to occur during daytime work hours and that the existing dumpster enclosure would remain (staff noted any site changes would require additional approvals and possible landscape buffering requirements).
Commissioners pressed for masonry dumpster enclosures, reduced bright-brand stripe on the rear façade, landscape buffering and assurance that lighting would meet glare and photometric standards; staff said code compliance could enforce lighting standards following complaints even if a photometric plan is not required for the current entitlement.
Commissioner Varner moved to recommend approval; the motion passed 5–1. The matter will be forwarded to City Council on Dec. 2.
