Arlington commission continues package liquor‑store rezoning at Green Oaks Blvd to May 7 after split feedback

The Planning and Zoning Commission continued a request to rezone 721 Southwest Green Oaks Boulevard for a family‑owned packaged liquor store to the commission’s May 7 meeting, after hearing applicant testimony, staff analysis and extensive commissioner questions.

Planner Alex Van Amberg presented the request (PD25‑2), noting the existing building meets parking and landscape requirements but that package liquor stores are not a permitted use in community commercial zoning without a planned development. The applicant, Navi Becker, described property repairs, new landscaping and a plan to operate the store with her father as a family‑run business: “Itll be a family owned business, including me and my father, ourselves. Well be operating it,” she said.

Commissioners and staff noted there are five liquor‑store locations within three miles of the site. Questions focused on neighborhood outreach, buffer and landscaping plans, prior history of similar applications at the site, whether the applicant holds or intends to pursue a TABC permit, and how the business would compete with existing stores. Commissioner concerns centered on community input and proximity to residences.

Because commissioners were divided — some expressed support for the small, family‑owned approach and site improvements while others said the community commercial zoning historically excluded packaged liquor at that location — the applicant requested a continuance. Commissioner Blake moved to continue PD25‑2 to the May 7 meeting; Commissioner Greer seconded and the motion passed.

The continuance gives the applicant time to gather neighborhood feedback, confirm licensing timelines and present any additional mitigation or buffer plans to the commission before the matter returns to the agenda.