Planning commission approves 12‑lot planned development at 2345 Puka Road with minimum living area amended

The Rowlett Planning and Zoning Commission on April 14 recommended approval of a rezoning to a planned development (PD‑SF5) for a 1.8‑acre tract at 2345 Puka Road that will create 12 single‑family lots.

Senior planner Michael King said the rezoning aligns with the city’s future land use map calling for medium‑density residential. The applicant’s revised plan reduces an earlier 17‑lot proposal to 12 lots, raising average lot size to roughly 6,600 square feet. Staff noted deviations from the standard SF‑5 requirements: a reduced minimum lot depth (100 feet → 94 feet) to accommodate site geometry, a reduced rear setback (25 feet → 10 feet) offset by deeper front setbacks, an alley waiver, and the decision not to require a subdivision perimeter masonry wall based on lot orientation.

Developer representatives and the project engineer said they redesigned the site plan in response to commission feedback, increased minimum lot sizes to meet the commission’s prior direction, and committed in the hearing to a 1,500 square‑foot minimum living area (amendment to Exhibit D). They said they would preserve existing trees where possible and add perimeter landscaping to buffer adjacent streets.

Two nearby residents spoke during the public hearing, raising concerns about a storm sewer that had been installed previously across part of the parcel and whether the addition of 12 homes would crowd the small site; staff and the developer said property lines and easements would be respected and that storm‑sewer locations and utilities would be verified through engineering review.

Commissioner Blades moved to approve the staff recommendation; Commissioner Pollard added an amendment requiring Exhibit D be updated to show a 1,500 sq ft minimum living area. The motion to approve the plan as presented with that exhibit correction passed 6–1. The recommendation goes to City Council for final action.