The 4 most important developments being voted on tonight

(1) South Boulevard firehouse

What it is: Designs call for a restaurant to be put in that historic firehouse at 1215 South Boulevard.

Why it’s important: This firehouse was built in 1958 and has become something of a landmark. It most recently housed the city’s fire investigation unit, but has been vacant since earlier this year. There’s already been some back-and-forth. An earlier proposal called for a drive-through, but that was scrapped.

(2) SouthPark Starbucks

What it is: Pappas Properties is asking for the go-ahead to put in a two-story Starbucks with a drive-through on Sharon Road just south of Fairview.

Why it’s important: From a consumer standpoint, very few Starbucks in Charlotte have a drive-through. This little square of SouthPark has a lot going on and a lot of traffic. Agenda story: View renderings of new two-story Starbucks coming to SouthPark.

(3) 1508 Kee Court

What it is: A 1.7-acre South End parcel that’s now home to a warehouse is up for a rezoning that would make it suitable for a transit-oriented development centered around townhomes with the possibility of office and retail. This is the type of mixed-use plan that incorporates proximity to the light rail and is in vogue in the area.

Why it’s important: We’re hearing this is going to be a townhome project which would be a great addition to South End.

(4) Skyhouse No. 2

What this is: A second Skyhouse apartment tower is already underway, but the developers need the city to OK the fact that their balconies will technically encroach on the buffer they’re supposed to have between the building and the street.

Why it’s important: This is a relatively minor thing and it would be a big shock if the city were to actually oppose it.