Council denies rezoning request for Van Born property after owner testimony

The Taylor City Council voted to deny a request to rezone two parcels at 21111 Van Born from the Gateway/ B‑2 overlay district to I‑1 light industrial after hearing testimony from the property owner’s representative and planning staff.

Conrad Shewey, speaking for the property owner Core BKG Van Born LLC, said the building meets setback and buffer requirements for light industrial use and argued the site would be difficult to develop under the Gateway Overlay. “The I‑1 District … is precisely what we’re asking for,” Shewey said, adding that an existing greenbelt and setbacks meet the ordinance standards. He said utility capacity and setbacks are sufficient for the proposed uses and warned that remaining with the overlay could leave the building vacant if Ford vacates in mid‑2027.

Planning staff and the city planner explained options including conditional rezoning and cautioned that the Gateway Overlay imposes development standards that could limit some industrial reuse. The planner told the council the property could be pursued for a conditional rezoning depending on the proposed development and pointed to prior approvals that contained many restrictions.

Council members debated whether a straight rezoning was necessary and whether conditional rezoning or waiting for a specific project would be appropriate. After discussion, Councilwoman Bridal Danner moved to deny the rezoning; the motion passed by roll call.

The denial means the property will remain subject to the existing overlay and applicable zoning rules. Staff told the council the owner retains the option to pursue conditional rezoning with a specific development plan or to return with additional documentation. No additional conditions or timing for a future application were set at the meeting.