Christmas on the Square was success — Garland’s Special Events and Marketing Coordinator Jackie Justice briefed the City Council and Mayor Douglas Athas on the success of the city’s 2014 Christmas on the Square event. The event was a success and there were several new activities to be enjoyed by attendees. There was coverage on early morning WFAA television news as well as on “Good Morning America.”
A separate tree lighting that was hosted by the city on the night prior to the event for individuals with sensory disorders such as autism was well attended.
The event enjoyed record attendance of approximately 6,000. Justice credited numerous individuals and city departments for the success of the event. She also acknowledged that some downtown Garland merchants were at first unhappy with the street closures, but were later happy with the number of customers that the event brought to their establishments.
No go on proposed recycling center — At a previous City Council meeting, a special use permit and parking variance were requested for a recycling center to be located at 2801 Wood Drive. Numerous property owners near the site were on hand at that meeting to express opposition to the development.
The council voted to approve the SUP and variance but that vote made virtually no difference because more than 20 percent of landowners around the site had opposed the granting of the SUP and variance in writing. This meant that seven council votes would be required to approve the ordinance.
Seven council members did not vote to approve the ordinance and the case of Encore’s request to open a recycling center at this location was closed.
More attendees at the Jan. 6 meeting registered opposition to the proposed development.
Wendy’s coming to South Garland Avenue — MUY Hamburgers Partners, LLC requested approval of a 3,400 square foot Wendy’s Restaurant near the northwest corner of South Garland Avenue and Miller Road. They also asked for minimal use of metal as one of the façade materials. The restaurant location would be next to the Bank of America site. The City Council approved this item.
Zoning change for nursing home requested — Smithers Merchant Builders requested approval of a zoning change, specific use permit and detail plan for a nursing home/convalescence center on the north side of Belt Line Road, west of the intersection of Belt Line and Shiloh Roads.
Smithers Merchant Builders hopes to build a 59,695 square foot nursing home which will have 66 unites and 132 beds.
The property is currently zoned for shopping center and the Planning Commission and city staff recommended approval of the zoning change and SUP. The item was approved by City Council.