After years of worshipping in different rented spaces, the Presbyterian Church of Lake Travis is closer to having its own building.

Bee Cave City Council on June 12 approved a variance and permit needed for site work to start on the new building at 14820 Hamilton Pool Road. The city still must approve the church's building permit.

The votes to approve a variance, site plan and final plat for the church were greeted with applause by members of the church congregation who attended the council meeting. The church has been in the permitting process for about a year.

"We are thrilled," congregation member Hilary Amacker said. "This has been a really long process."

The one-story, 5,877-square-foot church's sanctuary will seat approximately 84 people, according to the original concept plan.

Congregation member Dr. Steven Gottlieb said the church could be built within eight months if the process goes smoothly.