Employment Center Plans Approved By City Council Unanimously

City council unanimously approved an amendment requested by ETR Development Consulting, LLC Wednesday night to designate land at the intersection of Interstate Highway 35 and Lucian Flores Boulevard for a six-acre employment center.

Under the comprehensive plan, the preferred scenario map divided the space into 3.7 acres of high intensity land and 2.3 of open space. The 3.7 acre portion of the property is a “valuable piece of real estate” considering its proximity to the IH-35 frontage road, said Ed Theriot, managing member of ETR Development.

“We have, in the past, tried to work with the city in making these types of land use amendments,” Theriot said.

The development company filed the property to be used commercially as a general space. However, Councilwoman Lisa Prewitt, Place 1, expressed concerned about the property’s use.

“With a high-intensity (property), whether the application is filed or not, that does not confirm whether that will be used as a general commercial property,” Prewitt said.

In addition, Prewitt mentioned city officials had discussed keeping employment centers along the IH-35 frontage road.

“There is a pre-K center being built right down the street, and the property itself is in close proximity to neighborhoods,” Prewitt said. “So I think the employment center suffices for what (citizens) need.”

During the discussion, Councilman John Thomaides, Place 3, expressed concern regarding the property’s potential industrial use.

“The reality is once you find the land-use, it entitles (the developer) to (industrial use),” Thomaides said. “Whether you keep your occupation on file, it entitles (the developer) to move forward with it.”

The six-acre location sits less than a block away from neighborhoods. Thomaides believes the interests of the citizens need to be considered regarding that proximity.

With reluctance, Theriot agreed to approve the property as an employment center, removing its status as a high-intensity area.

Concern arose from the council regarding the 2.3 acres of green space behind the larger portion. Theriot stated it will remain open because of its position in a flood area. The space is suitable for a road construction or trail area.