In a recent public hearing, Keller City Council discussed a zoning change request that could significantly alter the residential landscape at the intersection of Florence Road and Judge Bland Road. The proposal, submitted by Kurt DeBose of Pentavia Custom Homes, seeks to rezone a 2.79-acre property from single-family residential lots of 36,000 square feet to lots of 25,000 square feet. The site, currently home to a former church and several structures, has been underutilized since the church ceased operations in 2017.

The applicant aims to subdivide the property into four residential lots, with one lot measuring just under 40,000 square feet and the remaining three meeting the proposed 25,000 square foot minimum. However, the three smaller lots would require a variance for lot width, as they do not meet the current zoning requirements. The surrounding area is predominantly zoned for larger lots, with single-family residential properties to the east, west, and north, while the south is part of Southlake's residential zone.

During the hearing, community member Joan Boyle expressed strong opposition to the rezoning, citing concerns about maintaining the character of Keller and the potential for increased density. She highlighted past experiences with high-density developments that had negatively impacted neighborhoods, urging the council to uphold existing zoning regulations.

The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended approval of the request, noting that the future land use plan designates the area for medium-density single-family development. However, several council members voiced their reservations, emphasizing the importance of preserving the low-density character of the neighborhood and the potential implications of downzoning.

The council has several options regarding the request: they can approve it as submitted, modify conditions, table the item for further consideration, or deny it outright. The discussion underscored the ongoing tension between development interests and community preservation, as council members weighed the benefits of new housing against the desires of existing residents. The council is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks, which will shape the future of this residential area in Keller.