Flower Mound approves incentives for pizzeria

The Flower Mound Town Council approved incentives Monday night in order to whet the appetite of a popular pizza franchise.

Council members approved a Chapter 380 incentive agreement valued at $18,245 for Mellow Mushroom that provides impact and building permit fee waivers and a three-year, 25-percent business personal property tax rebate.

Mellow Mushroom will open a 5,500-square foot pizzeria next year in the River Walk Market at the northeast corner of FM 2499 and FM 1171.

The pizza franchise will invest more than $1.6 million dollars in the restaurant, said Economic Development Director Mark Wood.

Sales tax and fees generated by the pizzeria over a 20-year period are estimated to be $1.12 million.

Wood told council members that Mellow Mushroom must obtain a building permit by Oct. 1, 2014 and remain open for at least four years to retain the incentive.

He said that the deal will pay for itself within the first six months of the restaurant’s operation.

Mellow Mushroom offers a variety of gourmet pizzas in addition to salads, appetizers, hot sandwiches, craft beer, as well as gluten-free menu options.

The Flower Mound Mellow Mushroom will be the company’s 11th restaurant in Texas.

“Residents consistently request unique restaurants and Mellow Mushroom is just that, a one-of-a-kind place where you can eat great food you can’t find anywhere else,” said Flower Mound Mayor Tom Hayden. “We look forward to announcing even more restaurants coming to Flower Mound in the near future.”

The council approved a similar agreement in July with La Madeleine, which will also locate in the River Walk Market next year.

“It is the one of the town’s top priorities to play an active role in recruiting and retaining the businesses residents desire so we can all enjoy a wide variety of opportunities to shop and dine in Flower Mound,” said Wood.