The breakdown
The undeveloped 4-acre tract resides outside Bee Cave's city limits in its extrajudicial territory and is a part of the larger, 148-acre Masonwood development agreement approved in 2011.
While city zoning does not apply to the tract, the city is able to regulate the land's use, according to staff.
At a Sept. 3 P&Z meeting, developers requested the city amend the original development agreement to allow for auto repair use within its land designated for neighborhood services.
The potential owner, Frank Barbella, said the proposed auto repair shop would serve as an "upscale" option for nearby residents with higher-end vehicles.
"Most people, because of lack of supply and local experience, take their vehicles outside the community, which means there is less sales tax revenue," said Barbella, who owns other auto businesses throughout the state. "We want to give a first-class experience for local families and friends."
Barbella also clarified that the proposed amendment would not allow for a car dealership on the land.
The other side
Several neighboring residents voiced opposition to the proposal, citing noise, privacy and traffic concerns.
Director of Planning and Development Carly Pearson said if the amendment was approved as written, it could set a precedent for other developers within the Masonwood agreement to request to build auto repair businesses.
The decision
Ultimately, the commission unanimously rejected the proposal.
Commission Chair Kit Crumbley said the auto repair use would not be compatible with the surrounding area.
"I agree that we need uses like this in the city. I don't think this is the place for it," Crumbley said at the meeting. "I'm very troubled by the fact that there's no constraints on it."
Zooming out
The Masonwood land is adjacent to the Sweetwater neighborhood, which has its own development agreement at the center of a lawsuit with the city.
