Martin County Council Approves Ranch PUD Rezoning
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Meeting Date:
04/30/2024
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Recording Published:
04/30/2024
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Duration:
179 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Martin County
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Towns:
Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Jupiter Island, North River Shores, Ocean Breeze, Palm City, Port Salerno, Rio, Sewalls Point, Stuart
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Martin County Council meeting, a decision to approve the rezoning for the contentious Ranch Planned Unit Development (PUD) was reached. This decision sparked a debate among council members, an array of public opinions, and discussions over the environmental impact and future land use implications.
The Ranch PUD project stood out as a point of contention, as it involved changing the future land use map and embracing a new zoning agreement for a large-scale development. The project aims to integrate residential living with golf courses and preserve areas while promising environmental and public benefits. Toby Overdorf, Vice President of Engineering, Design, and Construction, highlighted the project’s environmental commitments, including water quality enhancement, wetland restoration, and habitat preservation. The plan also mentioned educational initiatives through partnerships, such as providing land for the University of Florida’s agricultural programs and on-job training opportunities for local students.
Despite the potential benefits, the project faced opposition from several council members and members of the public. Concerns were raised about the potential for urban sprawl and the adverse effects on the rural lifestyle, the Indian River Lagoon, and local water quality. Commissioner Herd and Commissioner Smith voiced strong objections, with Herd describing the development as “textbook urban sprawl” and Smith underscoring its incompatibility with existing agricultural zoning. The comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning request were ultimately passed, with Herd dissenting.
Another item on the agenda was the discussion on the location for the new Martin County Wellness Clinic. After evaluating two site options, the board authorized construction on the second site adjacent to the fire rescue maintenance facility, citing its reduced costs and lower maintenance needs. This decision was preceded by a debate on the potential impact on future expansion opportunities for the fire rescue facility and the preference of some commissioners for the first site, near other county departments. The motion for the second site was carried with a 3-2 vote.
The council also addressed the Martin County School Board’s request to place a referendum for a 0.5 mill ad valorem tax increase on the November 5th, 2024 ballot. The resolution attached to the school board’s request was approved unanimously by the board. This move sets the stage for the county’s voters to decide on the proposed tax increase to support local schools.
Development projects continued to be a focal point, with the council approving the Pentalago Phase 2 plat for a new subdivision in Western Palm City and the Discovery PUD plat in Hobe Sound. Both projects met with approval after staff confirmed their compliance with all applicable regulations and the comprehensive growth management plan, despite concerns about the thoroughness of the review process and public input.
In a move to preserve local heritage, the council approved a request for the abandonment of part of a platted right-of-way to accommodate the historic Hobe Sound train station. This was unanimously agreed upon following a motion by Commissioner Jenkins, seconded by Commissioner Ciampi.
A resolution for accepting Southwest Earl Avenue into the county road inventory was also passed unanimously. This decision came after acknowledging the road’s poor condition and the necessity of repairs costing over $83,000. The council discussed the broader policy implications, with Commissioner Heard highlighting the challenge of addressing similar issues across the county.
Lastly, the council conducted a public hearing for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) FY21 Section 530 Urbanized Formula Funding, focusing on transit-related matters.
Don Donaldson
County Council Officials:
Doug Smith, Stacey Hetherington, Harold Jenkins, Sarah Heard, Edward V. Ciampi, Don Donaldson (County Administrator)
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Meeting Type:
County Council
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Meeting Date:
04/30/2024
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Recording Published:
04/30/2024
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Duration:
179 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Martin County
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Towns:
Hobe Sound, Indiantown, Jensen Beach, Jupiter Island, North River Shores, Ocean Breeze, Palm City, Port Salerno, Rio, Sewalls Point, Stuart
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