Commission approves request to restore gas station use at 6543 Callahan Road citing historic use

The commission voted April 22 to allow a specific‑use authorization to reestablish a gasoline‑filling station use at 6543 Callahan Road. Staff recommended denial because the request would permit fuel storage within 100 feet of multifamily residences and would reintroduce risk according to the staff report, but commissioners noted the site's historical use.

Applicant counsel Patrick Christianson said the current owner purchased the property recently, pursued permits (including canopy and tank permits) and was denied final Certificate of Occupancy only when zoning was rechecked; he asked the commission to permit the use to reconcile permitting steps the owner had taken. Commissioners examined aerial photo history and BCAD records indicating a convenience center and fueling use dating to at least the early 1980s.

Commissioner Sipes moved for approval, citing the site's historical context and the S (specific‑use) process as the appropriate extra check; the motion passed on a roll call vote. The commission directed staff to ensure permit and site constraints comply with safety standards and to transmit the recommendation to City Council.