Site Information:

Applicant: Lena Strauss, Dewberry Engineers, Inc. as agent for Space Exploration Technology, Inc.

Property Owner: Compass Datacenters MSP I, LLC

Property Address: 4450 Dean Lakes Boulevard

Lot Area: 11.59 acres

Current Zoning: Business Park (BP) with PUD Overlay

2040 Comp. Plan: Mixed Use Center 

Lena Strauss, representing Space Exploration Technology, Inc., has applied for a PUD Amendment to the Dean Lakes PUD to allow the construction of an approximate 95' x 193' fenced area, within the existing perimeter fencing, where 40 ground based satellite antennas would be installed. The proposed satellites will support Starlink, a constellation of low earth-orbit satellites facilitating broadband internet service for underserved communities and remote areas where access to high-speed internet may be limited or non-existent. The PUD allows for commercial and business park uses; however, changes to uses require a PUD Amendment. This request is considered a minor amendment by City Code, as it involves less than 10 percent of the PUD area (approximately 266 acres). Minor PUD Amendments are only reviewed by the Planning Commission, unless the Commission's decision is appealed to the City Council.

Staff spoke with representatives of the property owner in January 2024 and informed them that a PUD Amendment and permits (building, grading, and electrical) would be required for the proposed satellites. In March 2024, a fence permit was applied for but not issued due to the requirement for a PUD Amendment. It was observed shortly thereafter that grading, electrical, and fencing work had commenced on the property without the proper permits. A Stop Work Order was then issued.

The proposed satellites would be located northwest of the existing building in an area surrounded by a proposed 6' black, vinyl coated chain link fence that is being leased by the applicant. Each satellite is enclosed in a white fiberglass housing called a radome which is approximately 8' tall and approximately 7' wide. The radomes are installed on a pre-fab concrete base and positioned for exclusively skyward transmission. In addition to the 40 satellites, 4 transformers would be installed within the fenced area. A driveway and parking pad is also proposed on the south side of the fenced area off the existing interior access drive. No additional lighting is proposed. 

The applicant is proposing to plant a total of 48 coniferous trees of 4 different approved varieties around the west, north and east sides of the proposed fenced area to serve as screening. The trees shall comply with City Code Section 151.111 and 151.112.

The Engineering, Planning, and Fire Department have reviewed the request and are recommending approval provided the applicant complies with the Engineering Memo dated June 25, 2024 and obtains all of the necessary building, electrical, stormwater, and grading permits.