The city of Kennedale, Texas, has unveiled a new comprehensive zoning plan that proposes significant changes to the city’s landscape, particularly in its southern industrial area. The plan, which has drawn criticism from the Kennedale Alliance of Business Owners (KABO), seeks to convert virtually all industrial uses to commercial uses over the next decade.
According to KABO’s Executive Director Joe Palmer, the proposed plan reflects a dramatic shift in the city’s vision, potentially impacting the local economy and existing businesses. The new plan, developed by a consulting firm with input from a committee of community members, proposes to change all industrial uses along the southern portion of the Kennedale Parkway to commercial.
Palmer expressed concerns about the committee process, suggesting it may not have been fully inclusive of all views, particularly those of the business community. He cited an instance where a committee member quit after two meetings, describing the process as a ‘charade’ designed to give the appearance of citizen input while primarily reflecting city management’s desires.
The proposed plan envisions Kennedale as an ‘urban hub,’ which appears to contradict the stated desire of residents and the steering committee to maintain the city’s ‘small-town atmosphere.’ Additionally, the plan includes goals to discourage personal vehicle use, which seems at odds with the five-lane Kennedale Parkway’s infrastructure.
One of the most significant changes proposed is the reduction of industry presence in the city’s tax base from 38% to just over 3%. KABO argues that the plan fails to address how the city will offset the loss of ad-valorem and other taxes currently generated by industrial businesses.
The plan’s impact on existing businesses is a major concern for KABO. Many industrial users on the south side of town, such as Speed Fab-Crete, which has operated in the area since 1951, could face significant challenges if the zoning changes are implemented. These businesses may find it difficult to expand, improve their properties, or transfer ownership under the new zoning regulations.
KABO believes that the proposed changes could stifle development and job growth in the area. The organization argues that the southern part of Kennedale is better suited for industrial use, including multi-tenant office-warehouse, manufacturing, and distribution centers, rather than commercial and retail development.
The comprehensive plan, while not directly changing zoning, sets the direction for future zoning decisions in the city. KABO is urging business operators and property owners in the affected areas to voice their concerns at the upcoming public hearing on August 20 at City Hall or to send letters opposing the changes in the comprehensive master plan.
This proposed shift in Kennedale’s urban planning strategy raises important questions about balancing economic development, community character, and long-term sustainability. The outcome of this zoning debate could have far-reaching implications for the city’s future growth and development trajectory.
As the city moves forward with its planning process, the tension between maintaining industrial jobs and tax revenue versus pursuing a more commercial and retail-oriented future will likely remain a central point of discussion. The resolution of this issue will be crucial in shaping Kennedale’s economic landscape for years to come.
Interested parties can view the comprehensive zoning plan on the City of Kennedale’s website for more details on the proposed changes.
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