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Planning commission denies proposed gas station near Billy Ryan High School
Summary
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 to deny a specific-use permit for a gas station and accessory car wash proposed at East McKinney Street and Glengarry Way, citing safety, traffic and neighborhood impacts. Staff had recommended approval with mitigation measures and noted three letters of opposition.
The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 on Feb. 25 to deny a specific-use permit (S25001A) for automotive fuel sales and an accessory car wash on approximately 2.46 acres at East McKinney Street and Glengarry Way.
Bryce VanArsdale, assistant planner, told the commission staff recommended approval with conditions including adherence to the presented site plan, a planting buffer, and restricted car-wash hours of operation. He said the applicant held two neighborhood meetings and staff received three written letters of opposition. The transportation review required a right-turn-in from McKinney Street and the applicant provided a traffic impact analysis the city's engineers had reviewed.
Several residents spoke during the public hearing, describing near-daily traffic and sight-line problems near the existing Dollar General and concerns about pedestrian safety for students at nearby Billy Ryan High School. "It has caused more problems in our neighborhood than good," resident Isabella Sample said, urging commissioners to reject another commercial use at the neighborhood's entrance. Another resident said drivers regularly park on Glengarry and that adding a station would worsen illegal curbside parking and crossing risks.
Commissioners debated whether the city could require or facilitate safer crossings of McKinney Street. Staff initially said portions of East McKinney had been under TxDOT jurisdiction, though later noted maps had been updated to show city maintenance; staff also explained that environmental regulation of underground storage tanks and pump emissions generally falls to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Commissioner Catcher moved to deny the SUP citing odor and health concerns, traffic risk and neighborhood impacts; Commissioner McDade seconded, and the motion passed 6-0.
Because the commission recommended denial, the applicant may either revise the application and return to the commission or bring the item to City Council; a council overturn would require a supermajority vote.
