In a recent public hearing, the Mesquite City Commission considered a proposal from Jason Shaw for a comprehensive plan amendment and zoning change at 2795 Clay Mathis Road. The proposal seeks to transform the area from low-density residential to medium-density residential, allowing for the development of townhomes and an assisted living facility.

The project encompasses over four acres and includes plans for approximately 34 townhome units, which will consist of a mix of duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes. Additionally, a 48-bed assisted living facility is proposed to be situated at the front of the development, near Clay Mathis Road. The applicant aims to create a denser living environment, with a proposed density of roughly 7.9 units per acre, which aligns with the medium-density residential designation.

Currently, the area is zoned for agricultural use and surrounded by agricultural land and single-family homes. The proposed changes would require an amendment to the comprehensive plan, which currently designates the area for low-density residential development.

The concept plan has been reviewed by various city departments, including Planning and Zoning, Building Inspection, and Public Works, all of which found it acceptable for consideration. However, the proposal includes several modifications to existing zoning requirements. These include reducing the minimum lot size from 3,000 square feet to 2,500 square feet, decreasing the minimum living area from 1,500 square feet to 1,400 square feet, and requesting a reduction in the required building separation from 26 feet to 10 feet.

The applicant also seeks to modify parking requirements, proposing only one covered parking space per unit instead of the standard two. Furthermore, the plan includes only 6% open space, significantly below the 40% requirement, and requests a reduction in the standard screening wall height from 8 feet to 6 feet.

Community feedback has been mixed, with four responses received regarding the application. Concerns were raised by nearby residents, including one from across Clay Mathis Road and another from a property owner adjacent to the proposed development.

The Commission will deliberate on the proposal, weighing the potential benefits of increased housing density against community concerns and zoning regulations.