Council votes 6–1 to disapprove Majestic Developers' rezoning for townhomes on Independence Boulevard

The City Council voted 6–1 May 18 to disapprove a request by Majestic Developers to rezone 5.16 acres north of Independence Boulevard from LC-2 commercial to a planned development that would allow a 45-unit built-for-rent townhome community.

Aria Carvey, representing Majestic Developers, told the council the project would add density that could support future commercial development along the corridor and that the developer had agreed to design standards and underground detention: "Your planning department has been asking for density in this area for years... These townhomes provide density that mixed use needs."

Assistant City Manager Shashi Kumar explained staff and Planning & Zoning provided negative recommendations because the property is zoned LC-2 and the city's long-term vision calls for commercial uses along the major east–west corridor. Shashi said staff had asked the county's economic development director to explore whether commercial uses were feasible, but the applicant continued to press for residential use.

A motion to approve the development failed for lack of a second. A subsequent motion to disapprove passed 6–1 on the council vote. The transcript records the motion carried 6 to 1; council did not adopt the proposed PD. During the hearing, councilmembers asked about payback period, unit counts and compatibility with surrounding uses.