The crux of the meeting centered on the proposal to create a pool of development rights, aimed at managing the city’s growth sustainably. The committee deliberated on allowing the transfer of development rights from areas more amenable to increased density to those that the community wishes to preserve. Attention was paid to the concept of a bank for additional density and intensity, which would involve determining the market-based value of development rights. The discussion extended to considering community engagement and stakeholder input in creating a plan and regulating plan amendments tailored to specific areas. This would ensure that factors like traffic, water, sewer, stormwater, and design considerations are factored into decisions about development density and intensity.

In tandem with the development rights discussions, the committee also reviewed updates to the conservation and coastal management element of the comprehensive land use plan. Tammy, the planner, presented new goals, objectives, and policies that emphasized the importance of community and partner engagement in various areas, such as preparedness communications, risk education, and stormwater management awareness. Concerns were raised about the wording of the proposed policies, particularly the use of the term “implement,” which led to a debate on whether the language should allow for more flexibility. The planner suggested softening the wording to include terms such as “explore” or “consider,” addressing concerns about the feasibility of certain proposed actions.

Further discussions on conservation and coastal management involved collaborations with FEMA and local authorities to revise flood zone designations, reflecting updated data and risk reduction measures. The committee also tackled initiatives like the vertical oyster garden, partnering with university researchers and community volunteers, and the integration of water quality collaboration with state and local government. The committee considered adding a disaster recovery partnership to expedite post-disaster business continuity and housing, as well as reaching vulnerable residents before and after a disaster.

The meeting also touched on the integration of green building practices. Suggestions included incorporating a checklist of green considerations into the building permit process and providing property owners and developers with green building information and materials. The idea of partnering with an external provider for this information was also proposed. Additionally, the committee recognized the importance of community engagement through town hall meetings, notification systems for hurricane season, and plans for community gardens.

The waterfront area’s development was another key topic, with the committee reviewing building height regulations and setbacks. A regulating plan was discussed, which might be informed by a binding legal agreement with developers that establishes all development limits and parameters. The need to amend the Land Development code to align with the comprehensive plan was acknowledged.

The possibility of hosting workshops for private development and public finance 101 was brought up, considering the potential impact on the budget and the opportunity for applying for grants. Concerns about updating grant-related documents and improving organization and procedures were also addressed.