The most critical discussion centered on Ordinance Number 2024-19, concerning the voluntary annexation of the property located on Pine Grove Road, known as the Lake Lizzy property. Bernice Gonzalez, the principal planner with the Community Development Department, presented the case, stating that the request met the statutory requirements for annexation and was consistent with the joint planning agreement with Oula County. The property is designated for low-density residential use under the current county future land use designation and the RS-1C zoning.

Patrick Murray, representing the applicant, clarified that the property is situated about half a mile north of Highway 192, along the eastern boundary of Pine Grove Road. Initially proposing 97 dwelling units, the application was revised to 64 units in response to community input. The discussion focused on this reduction and its implications for the area, particularly regarding environmental and rural character preservation.

Chair Carmelo Aindo emphasized that the commission’s focus was on the annexation request itself. During the public comment period, Jerry Lockhart, a resident near Lake Lizzy, voiced his concerns about the proposed development’s impact on the environmental health of the lakes and the rural landscape. Lockhart emphasized the importance of maintaining environmental protections and responsible growth, stating, “I understand that change and growth are inevitable; I am only requesting responsible growth appropriate to the area.”

Lockhart also highlighted that his property is designated as an estate lot and noted that many neighboring lots range from half an acre to an acre. He expressed apprehensions that the annexation approval could set a precedent for further development along the lakes. After public comments and further clarifications, the commission voted on the motion to recommend approval of Ordinance Number 2024-19, passing it with a 3-1 result.

In addition to the annexation discussion, the commission also considered Ordinance Number 2024-66, which pertains to establishing a mural art program and amending the Land Development Code. Tisha Manning, the zoning manager, introduced the proposal aimed at enhancing the community through mural art in nonresidential developments within designated zoning districts, including CBD1, CBD2, the community redevelopment area, and along arterial roadways.

The ordinance specifies guidelines for murals, such as placement on exterior walls visible to the public and materials including paint, tile, mosaic, digital images, and low relief sculpture. It emphasizes that murals should complement the surrounding area and the building itself, without obscuring architectural features or using offensive language.

The ordinance allows murals to cover up to 100% of walls on two-story buildings and 50% for taller structures to avoid overwhelming the architecture. Participation in the mural program is voluntary, and business owners interested in installing a mural must submit an application and a sketch for approval. If a proposal raises concerns, it will be reviewed by the city council.

Staff recommended approval of the ordinance, noting it as an extension of the existing downtown mural program to include businesses along major thoroughfares. The commission unanimously approved the motion to recommend Ordinance Number 2024-66 with a 4-0 vote.

During the meeting, there was also a brief discussion regarding Ordinance Number 2024-50, concerning a future land use amendment. D. Mar Sagara, the deputy director, requested that this item be pulled from the agenda and postponed to October 8th. This request was acknowledged without further discussion.