The Leander City Council convened on June 5, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including discussions on Planned Unit Developments (PUD) and an ordinance amendment regarding microtrenching for fiber optic installations.

The meeting began with a review of a PUD motion concerning the VFW's request for RV storage. Legal complexities were noted, prompting a discussion on whether to withdraw the motion or amend it. Ultimately, the council decided to approve the PUD as is, allowing the VFW to proceed with their plans while they work on a future amendment for RV storage. The motion passed unanimously.

Following this, the council conducted a public hearing on an ordinance amendment to the composite zoning ordinance, specifically to incorporate standards and a permitting process for microtrenching. Development Services Executive Director Griffin presented the amendment, which aims to facilitate fiber optic deployment while addressing concerns about road integrity. Key provisions include allowing a maximum of ten concurrent microtrenching applications per provider and requiring that trenches be screened from view when adjacent to residential properties.

Public comments were received from representatives of AT&T and G Fiber, both of whom expressed support for the ordinance but raised concerns about certain restrictions. AT&T advocated for allowing multiple providers to trench on the same road to enhance competition and service quality. G Fiber emphasized the importance of microtrenching as a less disruptive method for deploying fiber networks.

Council members engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the implications of the proposed ordinance, including the potential for concurrent trenching by multiple providers and the need for warranties to protect road infrastructure. The council also considered the feasibility of microtrenching in areas without curbs, which could limit deployment options.

After deliberation, the council moved to amend the ordinance to clarify that perpendicular crossings would not be allowed on arterial roads but could be permitted on local streets. The motion to approve the ordinance with these amendments passed unanimously.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the ordinance in the future, ensuring that it meets the needs of both service providers and the community while maintaining the integrity of Leander's infrastructure.