The Leawood City Council has decided the future of the former Leawood post office at the Ranchmart Shopping Center, and it does not include a bar or restaurant.

The council gave unanimous final approval tonight to a new zoning category that would allow the building at 3500 W. 95th St. to be used for low-volume retail. Restaurants or taverns are expressly prohibited in the “planned neighborhood retail” area.

It was a victory for nearby residents who had opposed a proposed Slab-N-Pickle barbecue restaurant.

“After a yearlong battle, we are really pleased that an agreement has been reached,” said neighbor Wayne Starr.

The issue has been the subject of negotiations between the shopping center’s owner, Ranchmart North LLC, and neighbors concerned about noise and odors.

Slab-N-Pickle managing partner Scott O’Meara had already dropped plans for the former post office.

Roxie Hammill, Special to The Star