During a unanimous vote on November 10, the Pflugerville City Council rejected a proposed zoning amendment that would have permitted the former Three Legged Goat wine bar to relocate adjacent to Parkway Bible Church. The amendment would have allowed the establishment to be built within the Hill Country Bible Church planned unit development (PUD), a 48‑acre parcel at the southeast corner of East Pflugerville Parkway and Wilke Ridge Lane.
Faith‑based concerns drive opposition
Parkway Bible Church runs an addiction recovery ministry that serves dozens of individuals battling substance abuse. “Recovery from addiction is a very long and difficult process,” said Francisco Peralta, counseling director at the church. “In early recovery, counselors emphasize staying away from people, places and things that trigger temptation. I’m concerned about having this type of establishment so close to a place where we treat people to stay away from. Please don’t make relapse easier for those we treat.”
Community members echoed Peralta’s worries, adding that a wine bar could increase noise levels and strain limited parking spaces near the church.
Council members stand with the church
Long‑time council member Rudy Metayer, who has been involved with Parkway Bible Church for more than 15 years, voiced strong support for the church’s position. “They have been excellent partners in our community,” Metayer said. “I flat‑out disagree with any changes that should be happening with that PUD right now.”
The council’s unanimous decision reflects a broader commitment to protect families and vulnerable individuals in Pflugerville, aligning with the city’s tradition of safeguarding community values.
Business perspective
Representing the former owner of Three Legged Goat, Jim McDonald, speaker Chris Hernandez argued that the venue was more than a wine bar—it was intended as a community gathering place. “The Three Legged Goat isn’t just a wine bar, it’s a community gathering place,” Hernandez said. “We worked hard to create a welcoming, family‑friendly environment where people of all ages feel comfortable. As Pflugerville continues to grow, I think it’s important to preserve the locally owned businesses that give our city its character.”
Despite these arguments, the council prioritized the concerns of the church and its recovery ministry, concluding that the proposed rezoning would not serve the best interests of the neighborhood.
What this means for the PUD
The Hill Country Bible Church PUD remains slated for its original development plan, which includes residential units, open space and community facilities. The council’s decision keeps the land’s use consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan and preserves the integrity of the surrounding area.
City officials indicated that any future proposals for the site will undergo the same rigorous review process, ensuring that community input and faith‑based considerations remain central to planning decisions.
Looking ahead
While the Three Legged Goat will not reopen at the proposed location, the owners have not ruled out other sites elsewhere in Pflugerville that might better align with community standards. The council’s action underscores the city’s dedication to protecting families, supporting recovery ministries, and maintaining a safe, family‑friendly environment for all residents.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
