Work on new zoning district for former Chevron property inches forward

The City of Bellaire is making progress toward potentially creating a new zoning district at the former Chevron campus, at 4800 and 4900 Fournace Place.

The Bellaire Planning & Zoning Commission approved a scope of work on Feb. 13 for professional services to assist in drafting amendments to the city’s planning and zoning regulations to create a new North Bellaire Special Development District.

Work on the amendment comes as the city looks to transition the former Chevron property into a more viable commercial opportunity.

The commission approved 30 hours for the scope of work, which includes coordinating with city staff, providing initial review and comment on the amendment draft, preparing for an evening workshop with the commission, follow up, and on-call support to address unanticipated issues.

“The challenge we face here is that if we give them no guidance on what it should cost or how much effort it should take, I don’t know what they’re going to submit,” said Ross Gordon, chairman of the commission.

The commission also amended the motion to add a public hearing to the drafting process.

With the approval, city staff will work on the contract process with Kendig Keast Collaborative and Freese and Nichols, the two firms, with an anticipated completion date of April 9, according to a city agenda report.

A cost has yet to be determined, as the commission and city staff will need to wait for proposals from the two firms. The commission will then make its recommendation on its firm of choice to the Bellaire City Council, which will have ultimate authority on choosing a firm to perform the work.