Controversy and keen public interest was expected last night with the former Burr Oak Manor issue on the Austin Planning and Zoning Commission's agenda.

But the biggest draw ended up being the possible rezoning on property owned by Hormel Foods, packing council chambers and leaving some citizens standing -- despite the extra seating.

The commission passed a recommendation to the Austin City Council to approve a rezoning of a portion of Hormel property from an R-1 (single family residential) district to an R-O (Residential-Office) district.

The rezoning is the first step for Hormel in its plans to expand its research and development building to provide more space.

The controversy comes from safety concerns about increased traffic on Third Street NE and Fourth Street NE due to parking lot modifications and an increase in spaces.

Richard Jarvis, who lives on Fourth Street, said there were already traffic concerns at the current parking lot entrance.

"Those people come out of there like there's no speed limit, no traffic rules," he said. "You're taking your life into your own hands trying to cross in front of there."

Rhonda Underdahl, also a resident of the neighborhood, said with her children playing outside or going to Wildwood Park, the thought of more traffic "absolutely terrifies" her.

Jim Mino represented Hormel. He said the changes to the current land use would not be significant and there are no current plans to hire more employees.

Ultimately, the arguments did not matter. Craig Hoium, director of community development, said approval of the rezoning and approval of the construction plans were two separate issues. In order to expand the facility, Hormel will still have to apply for a conditional-use permit before beginning construction. When they do so, many of the concerns could be met by special conditions added on to the permit.

The commission passed approval 7-0 and members stressed that this did not mean the construction was approved. Brian Johnson said he abstained from the discussion and vote because of a conflict of interest.

Commission member Roger Stratton was absent from the meeting.

Matt Merritt can be reached at 434-2214 or by email at matt.merritt@austindailyherald.com