Council tables controversial rezoning at 7001 S 900 E, asks for development agreement and traffic study

Planning Director Wendelin Knobloch presented a proposal to add the Regional Commercial Residential Overlay (RCRO) to a 2.37‑acre site at 7001 S 900 E, a parcel that previously housed a medical office building that burned on January 17, 2021. The concept plan shows mixed‑use with retail along 900 E, podium parking (199 structured spaces plus guest parking), and two building components: a 52‑foot portion adjacent to residences and a 64‑foot portion fronting SR‑71. Wendelin told the council the proposal could yield roughly 140 to 200 units.

Neighbors from Essex Court and surrounding neighborhoods voiced concerns in public comment about traffic congestion near Hillcrest High, a lack of a traffic/pedestrian/egress study, and uncertainty that the concept would be followed without a development agreement. "There is no commitment and anything can be built," said Edward Kimball, an Essex Court homeowner, who urged protections for residents. Developer Adam Paul said rents would be market rate, estimating average rents of "$1,100–1,200 a month," and said the team would be willing to conduct a traffic study.

Several council members — including Bonnie Billings and Paul Glover — urged a development agreement that would legally bind details such as building height and parking. Council Member Paul Glover moved to table the rezoning so staff can work on a development agreement; the motion passed 4–1 (Heidi Robinson opposed). Council asked staff to return with a negotiated development agreement and any required traffic analysis before resuming consideration.