The Dallas City Plan Commission voted Oct. 9 to deny a request to consider the FWMU‑5 form subdistrict for a high‑rise mixed‑use project branded “Winners Tower” at MLK Boulevard and Colonial Avenue (case Z245‑200 / Z25000073).

Applicant representatives and community supporters described a mixed‑use project that initially included up to 25 stories and was later discussed at a reduced height (applicants said they would consider 15 stories as a compromise). Supporters and tenant organizations told commissioners the proposal would house nonprofit tenants, health services, affordable units, retail and job‑creating uses. Apostle Rafael Adebayo and others testified that the project would provide community services, affordable housing and local hiring commitments.

Staff report language recommended consideration of an FWMU‑5 form subdistrict within PD 595 but the project drew opposition from several neighborhood groups and conservation advocates. Speakers representing nearby neighborhood associations and environmental advocates raised process and scale concerns, questioned whether promised community benefits would materialize, and pointed to potential traffic, drainage and infrastructure impacts. Several neighborhood leaders asked for more detailed, specific commitments and broader consensus before approving a zoning change of this magnitude.

Commissioner Wheeler moved to close the public hearing and not follow staff’s recommendation — effectively denying the requested rezoning — citing the lack of broad community support, absence of a consensus at community meetings and concerns that the project did not demonstrate a sufficient, accountable plan for local benefits. Commissioner House Wright seconded the motion and the commission carried it.

Why it matters: The decision blocks a high‑profile proposal intended to catalyze redevelopment on a major corridor in South Dallas and underscores commission expectations that large rezonings show strong, documented neighborhood engagement, clear community benefits and trust with local stakeholders before large vertical increases are approved.

Next steps: The developer may revise the application and seek renewed neighborhood engagement before returning; the denial is final for this hearing but does not legally bar a future filing.