The Little Elm Town Council meeting on September 30, 2025, focused on a significant development proposal for the Lakeside Shops and Business Park, located on the west side of town. The discussion centered around a request for a specific use permit (SUP) for a new liquor store and retail smoking establishment, which aims to expand the offerings in the area.

The proposed development covers two parcels, with the primary focus on one outlined in yellow. The applicant, Lucky's Liquor, currently operates a location on El Dorado and seeks to establish a second site. The proposed layout includes a 3,300 square-foot space designed to ensure that front windows remain unobstructed, addressing a key concern for the council regarding visibility and aesthetics.

The SUP process allows the council to evaluate such requests on a case-by-case basis, particularly for businesses that may have a more intense impact on the community. This approach aims to mitigate any potential negative perceptions associated with liquor stores. The West Side study identified the area as suitable for neighborhood retail, which includes restaurants and mid-rise office buildings.

In a notable comparison, a previous liquor store SUP request at the ACE Shopping Center was denied in 2024 due to concerns about its fit within the neighborhood retail category. However, the planning and zoning commission approved the current request on September 18, 2025, citing the family-owned nature of Lucky's Liquor and its positive reputation in the community as factors that align it more closely with neighborhood retail.

The commission's approval was unanimous, with a vote of 4 to 0, and standard conditions were set for the business to obtain the necessary licenses before opening. This development marks a significant step in enhancing the retail landscape of Little Elm, reflecting the town's commitment to fostering local businesses while considering community needs.