The most significant item on the agenda was the proposed rezoning of a 2.4-acre parcel from a Commercial Planned Unit Development (CPUD) to a Business Mixed Use (BMU) zoning designation. This property, situated in the East Stuart overlay district, has been a focal point for redevelopment efforts aimed at revitalizing the area and promoting economic growth.

Jody Couer, the Development Director, provided a comprehensive background on the property and the project’s timeline. Since 2021, the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have been involved in this initiative, starting with a federal grant aimed at mitigating the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The city pursued a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), which led to the acquisition of the Willie Gary property for job training purposes. The grant was approved in 2022, and by 2023, agreements were executed with Florida Commerce to proceed. The property, initially slated for rehabilitation, was instead determined to require demolition and new construction, leading to additional funding and a total project cost of $6.2 million.

A discussion emerged concerning the historical implications of the property and its potential impact on the community. One board member questioned the relevance of the materials in the item packet, noting that many documents did not pertain to the current zoning discussion. Couer explained that the expiration of the CPUD necessitated a new zoning designation, and the BMU zoning was more suitable given the location and intended development goals. The proposed zoning aims to enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal and promote connectivity through updated requirements for streetscapes and pedestrian walkways established in the form-based code adopted in 2023.

The Project Lift initiative, intended to operate as a training center at the site, was a focal point of the discussion. One board member expressed enthusiasm for the organization, emphasizing its positive contributions to the community and the importance of vocational training for individuals who may not pursue traditional college education. They reflected on personal experiences, noting the value of accessible vocational training options for local youth.

Public comments were invited, leading to a statement from James Christie, a member of the local community. Christie articulated strong opposition to the zoning change. He emphasized that many long-time residents opposed the proposed changes and criticized the planning process, stating, “the community does not want this.” Christie called for development that would benefit the citizens of East Stuart and asserted that the community should have a more substantial role in decisions impacting its economic future.

Following Christie’s remarks, another board member acknowledged the complexities of the situation, recognizing both the community’s historical context and the need for economic development. They noted the unfortunate state of the property, which has remained vacant for over 20 years, and suggested that investment could potentially improve the local economy, even as the community’s hesitance toward change was understood.

Additional comments touched on the potential economic benefits of a mixed-use zoning designation for the property, which would allow for diverse development opportunities. Some members expressed concern about the lack of community engagement and the need for ongoing communication between city officials and residents. The importance of considering shorter lease terms for any developments was suggested, allowing flexibility to adapt to changing community needs over time.

The discussion ended with a motion to approve the zoning change, followed by a voice vote. The motion passed without opposition, though concerns about the community’s interests and historical context were clearly articulated throughout the dialogue.