On Tuesday evening, Coppell City Council discussed the purchasing of property located near South Belt Line Road to develop it into a senior housing center for citizens over 55 living in Coppell.

The council discussed the housing demand for seniors and making more housing available for citizens seeking comfort and security in their homes as they grow older. It continued to discuss the floor plan including amenities, programs, services, living units and building materials. It explained that this will open up housing for younger families seeking active and social areas. 

Members of the council discussed how the purchase would be affected by the noise coming from the DART Line located above the property. Place 1 City Council member, Jim Walker expressed his opinion about the location becoming an issue for senior citizens and being located near a crosswalk.

The discussion continued as many council members expressed concern for the properties location causing problems specifically for senior citizens. The council also mentioned how visitor hours and amenities would be lacking especially after the property being sold. 

“You’re confusing me with the senior living with the senior living, active living, the 55, the 75, I need clarity because I am not in support of this at all,” council member Brianna Hinojosa-Smith said.

The council expressed its thankfulness for the boards and commission members and presented them with a certificate of appreciation. 

“The backbone of what we do as a city and provide all the input to the city council,” Mayor Wes Mays said. “They are the minds of the citizens and they provide just an invaluable service to us.”

David Schauf, a food manufacturer, chemist, and scientist spoke about stone water management and the limited funding available to sustainable processes such as water and sewer services and requested increased action towards this. He expressed concern towards the lack of conservation in Coppell. He discussed his disappointment in the increase of non-sustainable practices and how this will affect the environment in negative ways over the next few years.

The council also discussed the proposal to purchase the Welbilt Inc. building located at 1010 W. Sandy Lake Road. They discussed the reason for purchase and its functioning as a mixed use community center that is accessible through a short walking distance.

The next meeting is Jan. 10.

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