In a recent meeting of the Southlake Planning and Zoning Commission, discussions centered around a proposed facility aimed at providing therapy for school-aged children. The facility, which has faced scrutiny in the past, was described as a medical program rather than a traditional day school, raising concerns about the safety and supervision of the children during their time there.

The applicant clarified that the children, who are enrolled in online schooling, would be at the facility from 8 AM to 5 PM. While the program does not include on-site teachers, it offers a structured environment where therapists can observe the children’s behavior and coping skills. The applicant emphasized that they do provide transportation for some children, utilizing a medical Uber program, and have strict protocols in place for arrivals and departures.

Despite these assurances, some commission members expressed skepticism about the facility's safety measures, particularly regarding the potential for children to wander onto nearby Southlake Boulevard. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the facility's access control and the risk of children escaping, especially given the facility's proximity to busy roads.

The commission opened the floor for public comments, but no members of the community chose to speak on the matter. Following the public hearing, the commission debated the proposal, with some members indicating they would vote against it, citing unresolved safety concerns and a lack of significant changes since the previous application was denied.

As the commission prepares to forward its recommendations to the city council, the outcome of this proposal remains uncertain. The discussions highlight ongoing community concerns about child safety and the need for thorough evaluations of facilities that cater to vulnerable populations. The next steps will involve further dialogue between the applicant and city officials to address these critical issues.