A long-standing debate over the development of a vacant lot in Round Rock appears to be headed toward resolution. According to Russ Boles, representative of landowner Jerry Bradley, a contract with the City of Round Rock to purchase the plot, located at the southwest corner of the intersection of FM 3406 and Wyoming Springs Drive, is now being considered. According to Bradley, the city is considering building a new fire station on the land.

"The city has been looking for a fire station site in this area for some time," Bradley said in a written statement. "Once the city approached me, it made common sense for the area, and the decision was easy."

The June 28 Round Rock City Council meeting agenda includes a resolution to consider allowing the mayor to enter a contract for the purchase of the lot, located on 2.029 acres.

The sale of the plot was delayed in January when local homeowners protested plans to build a Wag-A-Bag gas station on the site.

Bradley agreed to listen to alternative offers for the property in lieu of the protests. In January, Nick McIntyre, president of the Tonkawa Springs Homeowners Association, said homeowners were looking for another option to commercial development on the land.

"At this point, a group of individuals are either negotiating or making an offer to possibly purchase the land. We are obviously in favor of them [residents purchasing the land]," McIntyre said at the time.

According to Boles, the offer made by residents was far below market value for the land, forcing Bradley to seek other buyers.

"In the end, Wag-A-Bag decided to withdraw their offer," Boles said. "And the city was looking for a place to build a fire station.

"It seems to me this is a pretty good day for the neighborhood."