Planning Commission unanimously approves Sanders Development final planned development in Branson

The Branson Planning Commission on March 3 unanimously approved a final planned development application for the Sanders property on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway.

Planning staff told commissioners the application covers three parcels intended to support and expand the nearby Promise Land Zoo. Parcel 1 is proposed for general commercial uses — including a farmers market, petting zoo and a possible wedding venue — parcel 2 for caretaker quarters with potential multifamily or zoo expansion, and parcel 3 for additional caretaker homes, multifamily, zoo expansion and indoor and outdoor recreation. Staff said sewer and water service exist on the site and that legal notices were mailed to property owners within 185 feet.

Staff told the commission that the preliminary planned development was previously recommended for approval by the Board of Aldermen through ordinance 2026-0005 on Feb. 10, 2026, and that the final PD application complies with the requirements of Branson Municipal Code §94-48. The staff presentation concluded with a recommendation to approve the final PD.

There was no public comment during the hearing. After closing the hearing, the commission moved to approve the final planned development; the roll-call vote was 8-0 in favor.

The approval by the Planning Commission advances the application under the city's PD process; staff noted review and decisions for final PDs proceed through the Planning Commission and the Board of Aldermen. The commission did not attach conditions to the approval on the record at the meeting.

Next procedural steps identified by staff include continued processing with city administration and eventual review by the Board of Aldermen for final action.