Centerton Planning Commission Recap, 3.4.25

Last night’s Centerton Planning Commission meeting covered a range of zoning changes, conditional use permits, and updates on local development projects. From residential concerns about commercial encroachment to a new pickleball facility, here’s a breakdown of what went down.

Rezoning Requests and Public Hearings

1. KHM2S2 Homes, LLC: Rezone from A-1 to C-3 (North Main St & N Lexington Pl)

The commission reviewed and approved a request to rezone a 4.95-acre parcel from A-1 (agricultural) to C-3 (neighborhood commercial). The applicant, Hunter Collins from Crafton Tull, stated the intent is to create a pickleball complex with indoor and outdoor courts, a pro shop, a bar and grill, and retail spaces.

Concerns Raised:

• Nearby Residents' Objections: A long-time homeowner, Chris Mooney, expressed opposition, noting that surrounding properties are residential in nature, despite being zoned A-1. He emphasized that approving commercial zoning here would disrupt the character of the area.
• Commission’s Response: The board acknowledged concerns but cited the city’s comprehensive plan, which has designated this corridor for commercial use for years. They referenced previous rezoning attempts that were denied when they included residential components.

2. Centerton Pickleball Courts: Conditional Use Permit

This project is tied to the rezoning approval and aims to bring an indoor and outdoor pickleball facility to the area. Given its location adjacent to residential properties, the commission focused on:

• Noise and Light Pollution: Conditions were placed on hours of operation (outdoor courts to close by 9 PM, indoor by 11 PM).
• Screening and Landscaping: A significant buffer with vegetation and a possible earthen berm was suggested to mitigate sound.
• Traffic and Parking Concerns: The board discussed parking capacity and potential congestion along North Main Street, requiring developers to reassess the parking layout.
• Alcohol Service: Concerns were raised about serving alcohol at a sports facility, but ultimately, it was approved with conditions.

3. City of Centerton Rezoning (Keller Rd & Centerton Blvd)

The commission approved a rezoning from A-1 to C-2 for a future community center. Unlike other proposals, this was largely unopposed. Discussion focused on:

• Whether C-2 zoning was the best fit (since a civic zoning category doesn’t currently exist).
• Ensuring proper access and infrastructure were planned to accommodate expected community growth.

New Business Developments

Langman Estate Winery (11507 W AR 72)

A new winery is set to take over the existing 72 West building along Highway 72, maintaining the current coffee shop while adding outdoor patio seating. The key discussion points included:

• Parking Expansion: The commission approved additional parking spaces to accommodate the new use.
• Dumpster Enclosure Standards: A debate arose over whether to require a masonry enclosure, which has been a standard requirement for other businesses.
• Sidewalk and Landscaping Requirements: The developer requested a waiver for sidewalk installation along Highway 72, citing that no pedestrian traffic was expected, but commissioners debated the long-term planning implications.

Infrastructure & Planning Updates

Title 15 Update

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to ongoing updates to Title 15 of the zoning code, particularly screening and compatibility standards for developments adjacent to residential areas.

Sewer Capacity Concerns

Centerton Utilities is preparing to notify developers about potential sewer capacity limitations, which could affect project timelines and approvals.

Final Thoughts

This meeting showcased the ongoing push-pull between commercial growth and residential concerns in Centerton. While the commission emphasized its commitment to strategic, well-planned development, residents near some of these projects remain apprehensive about what these changes will mean for their neighborhoods.

The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for March 18, 2025, and the next City Council Meeting is March 11, 2025—a key opportunity for further discussions.

For more updates on Centerton’s growth, stay tuned to The Blue Haired Broker!