The former Fuel Depot property, owned by Marina Island LLC, was at the forefront of discussions, with the City Attorney providing context on its transfer from the Air Force and its current mixed-use and commercial land use designation. The commissioners queried the potential impact of development on the city’s infrastructure, particularly wastewater capacity, and the city services.

A representative from Marina Island Group presented their vision for a 176-acre site in Lynn Haven. The proposed master plan highlighted four key ideas: a boating community, inclusivity, resilience, and walkability. The plan includes a main spine road, single-family lots, residential buildings, mixed-use buildings, and the integration of the Rails to Trails concept.

The development plan proposed a mix of building types, from detached single-family homes to multifamily and mixed-use buildings, all designed to foster comfortable, walkable streets and open spaces for public use. The architects highlighted the significance of memorable civic buildings and the thoughtful architectural style that provides views and outdoor spaces for residents.

The commission discussed the need for diverse housing options, including “missing middle housing,” to address the current housing crisis. The proposed building types for Marina Island encompass multifamily buildings, apartment villas, townhouses, live-work units, homes on intimate courts, and tower houses. The importance of creating walkable communities with a variety of housing options was emphasized, as was the need to modify zoning codes to accommodate such development.

The proposed street designs and layout aimed to create a pedestrian-friendly environment, with considerations for emergency services access. The potential impact of the development on surrounding businesses and residents, as well as compatibility with industrial areas, was debated. The commission highlighted early involvement of fire and police services in the planning process and the need to address safety standards.

Discussions also touched on the maintenance of community spaces, addressing concerns regarding park upkeep by municipalities and homeowners’ associations. The timeline for the Rails for Trails project and its integration with the development was of interest, as was the inclusion of affordable housing in the project.

Public accessibility to community spaces was another topic of discussion, with the plans including a yacht club and boat club open to the public and suggestions for a children’s museum. Concerns about gentrification and the impact on Lynn Haven’s median income and infrastructure were raised, with developers assuring that impact fees and stormwater requirements would be met.

Environmental concerns related to the development were addressed, with assurances that previous contamination issues had been mitigated through grant-funded cleanup. Questions regarding the impact of a new bridge and channel on stormwater management were raised, with the intention of enhancing the value of the southern part of Lynn Haven Bayou.