The Goodtime Hotel was at the forefront of the meeting as the board grappled with conflicting information regarding violations and noise level recommendations. The establishment faced scrutiny over its entertainment conditions, specifically concerning the level of noise permissible on its pool deck. After much debate, the board decided to uphold the modified conditions which limit entertainment level music to two weekends per month and reduce entertainment hours. Additionally, the board discussed the issue of noise regulations for outdoor entertainment venues citywide, weighing the concerns of residents against the operational needs of businesses. The board opted to continue this discussion at the next meeting, pending the results of a new sound study.

Another focal point was the proposal of residential use incentives aimed at encouraging properties to abandon transient uses in favor of residential development. The incentives included height and density increases for properties that transition away from short-term rentals or hotel operations. The staff recommended a favorable transmission of the comprehensive plan amendments and the Land Development regulation amendments to the city commission, which the board endorsed.

Public comments raised concerns about the process for deciding on height and floor area ratio (FAR) increases, with some arguing that such decisions should involve voter input. However, the staff clarified that recent State legislation preempts the city from requiring such approval and that a more comprehensive review process is now in place for these decisions.

The board also engaged in discussions regarding the potential amendment to lower building heights from 200 feet to 150 feet in certain districts as a means to control transient uses. The conversation touched on the implications for historic structures and the types of residential units developed, emphasizing the need to cater to attainable housing within the city.

The board tackled a proposal to expand the zoning modifications citywide, particularly to include North Beach, in response to concerns about short-term rentals and micro-unit developments. The motion to recommend applying the proposed amendments citywide was seconded and approved, with an additional push for further residential incentives.

In terms of business operations, the board reviewed a request for a change of ownership for a restaurant and bar lounge, which received approval, signaling excitement for its future prospects. Additionally, the board considered a lot split application, where the applicant sought to increase the allowable unit size due to marketability concerns. After reviewing the proposed designs and considering the neighborhood’s character, the board approved an increase to 50% unit size with specific conditions.

The recommendation to require mandatory progress reports within six months of the issuance of a conditional use permit, as well as yearly progress reports, was a contentious topic. While the board recognized the need for oversight, it recommended removing the yearly report requirement to avoid placing an undue burden on businesses without complaints or issues.

The expansion of the categories for architects and landscape architects on the land use boards was approved with minimal debate, and the establishment of fee schedules for live local application fees was discussed, with a focus on developing incentives for projects that include workforce housing units. Furthermore, the elimination of the 0.5 F bonus for hotels in certain districts was debated and ultimately favored.

The board also addressed the need for new land use board members to undertake an architectural tour to gain insights into the city’s historic architecture, recommending that city commissioners join these tours for a more profound understanding of the architectural landscape.