Council advances Magnolia Creek Phase 3 PUD on first reading; North Pearl mixed-use requests stall after opposition

The council moved Ordinance 2,014 forward on first reading to rezone 22.27 acres for Magnolia Creek Phase 3 to Planned Unit Development (PUD), allowing a proposed 52-unit single-family subdivision with narrower lots (40-foot widths) and reduced side setbacks consistent with earlier phases. Staff said major comments were addressed, a substantial portion of the perimeter is wetlands and the requested density averages roughly 3 units per acre; the Planning and Development Board had recommended approval.

Separately, staff presented linked items to amend the comprehensive plan (Ordinance 2,015) and rezone 0.87 acres at 1398 North Pearl Street to mixed use (Ordinance 2,016). Several council members opposed expanding mixed-use zoning into an established residential area and raised concerns about pushing mixed-use farther into neighborhoods. One council member said, “I don't think I can support… changing this to Mixed Use,” and another said they visited the property and were concerned about changing the neighborhood character. Council took no motion on the North Pearl items and the items died for lack of a motion.

Outcome: Magnolia Creek Phase 3 PUD approved on first reading and sent to second reading; the North Pearl comprehensive-plan amendment and rezoning requests were not moved and did not advance.