The development project for the Town Square North and South Parcels garnered attention, with the commission delving into the specifics of the project’s proposed modifications. The applicant proposed minor adjustments, such as changing unit locations between parcels, increasing commercial spaces, and adding more parking spaces while maintaining the total residential units at 898. The commission, after hearing the staff overview and applicant presentation, discussed the various requests associated with the project, including a height exception and a variance related to the parking garage.

Public comments revealed a community divided over the project. Residents expressed concerns about the violation of height limits, the number of apartments, traffic, and the impact on local businesses and affordable housing. Others showed support for the development, citing potential community benefits and comparisons to successful projects in neighboring areas. The commission voted on the various items related to the project, with some dissent on certain motions.

The meeting also put a spotlight on public safety as residents voiced frustrations with speeding in neighborhoods, the need for more robust mental health care support, and concerns over police procedures, particularly high-speed chases. The commission agreed to discuss the issue of overgrown vegetation on utility lines at the next meeting and requested staff to address a road sealant project.

Commissioner Kelly was nominated and unanimously approved as the new vice mayor. The commission ratified the selection of the chair and vice chair for the Library Advisory Board and appointed city commission representatives and alternates for various boards and programs. Discussions also touched on the potential creation of a beautification board to work on citywide projects and a postponement of an agenda item for a public workshop on the Strategic Plan.

In addition to the major development discussion, the city announced its partnership with the FAU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities for the Art and Autism Expo and the upcoming 2024 Earth Day celebration. The Commission recognized individuals who completed their high school diploma and career certificate through the Career Online High School program and read a proclamation for Women’s History Month.

Public comments touched on further issues, including accusations of treason, mistreatment by city officials, potential fraud in upcoming elections, and the need for improved communication between adults and youth on sensitive topics like drugs and violence. The applicants and city staff addressed some of these concerns during the meeting, providing clarity on project details like the public art program, parking, and building aesthetics.

The meeting also saw the approval of a development order for Potter Town Homes on North Federal Highway, which involves a land use amendment, rezoning, and site plan approval for a project consisting of eight townhome units. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the proposed landscape buffer, which the applicant and staff addressed.