At Tuesday’s Coppell City Council meeting, Mayor Wes Mays proclaimed Jan. 13 as Korean American Day in Coppell.
With members of the Korean Society of Dallas and Fort Worth present at the meeting, Mays honored them for the culmination of their culture across the country and their contributions to North Texas.
“The first Korean immigrants and their descendants have planted roots which have continued to thrive in the United States through hard work and strong families,” Mays said. “Their achievements and contributions can be seen in the economic strength, cultural diversity and in all facets of American life, including politics, industry, entrepreneurship, volunteerism, arts, education and in various branches.”
The council also approved a zoning change request by Irving resident Lisa Mehri, who recently built a home in Coppell. It was brought to attention by the Coppell Planning Department that Mehri’s home’s lot coverage exceeds the limit of 35% of the construction area as it takes up 54.3% instead.
Assistant planning director Matt Steer spoke on behalf of Mehri to ask the council to permit the 54.3% lot coverage. He explained it was not until the final inspection of the home that the planning department staff was alerted of the coverage requirement not being adhered to, and it was an oversight in the previous home inspections that led to the error.
Council member Mark Hill questioned the efficiency of the lot coverage requirements.
“Quite frankly, if it’s within the setbacks, I don’t understand why we even have a percentage lot coverage in the books,” Hill said. “It doesn’t make sense. If you have got your side yard, front yard, backyard, or however big the house is, it should be allowed. In my opinion, we ought to consider taking a look at this requirement down the road.”
In commemoration of the Coppell resident and runner Michael Higgins winning first place in the 2023 Antarctic Ice Marathon, the council declared Jan. 9 as Michael Higgins Appreciation Day.
“Thank you guys for all your support,” Higgins said. “It was a real privilege for me to represent Texas in the marathon.”
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