Planning and Zoning approves two-year SUP amendment to allow modular classrooms at Lucas Christian Academy

The Lucas Planning and Zoning Commission voted 3-2 Thursday to approve an amendment to the Specific Use Permit (SUP) for Lucas Christian Academy, permitting modular classroom buildings on the southwest corner of the school's campus at 505 West Lucas Road for a two-year term. The motion, which included a screening requirement shown on the applicant's concept and a condition that the applicant submit an amended letter of intent to the City Council, passed after public comment both opposing and supporting the request.

Joseph Walker, who identified himself as a school representative, told the commission the modulars are needed to comply with directives from the accrediting body and to provide dedicated space for music, art, special-education (WAR) services and study halls without increasing enrollment. "We're humbly asking the city of Lucas planning and zoning to grant our proposal so that we can work with the city in the future to find a solution that works for us and is agreeable to the city of Lucas residents," Walker said. Development services staff recommended a two-year approval to allow the school time to return with a plan for permanent facilities.

Opponents raised zoning and traffic concerns and cited city code language limiting use of prefabricated structures in R-2 zoning; one resident urged the commission "to vote no" and said the modulars would occupy land previously reserved for a future gym. Commissioners debated documentation and enforcement mechanisms before voting; the chair recorded the vote as 3 in favor (Weisick, Williams, Tolleson) and 2 opposed (Highs, Alworth).