The most notable item on the agenda was the approval of a zoning change from single-family residential to multi-family residential with a planned unit development overlay for a parcel of approximately 4.23 acres located at the intersection of St. John’s Avenue and Zigler Drive. This change is intended to support the development of 68 townhomes aimed at providing housing for traveling healthcare professionals, such as nurses and doctors working at the nearby hospital. The applicant emphasized the necessity of these accommodations, stating that they address a growing need within the community.

The board’s discussion revolved around the project’s potential impact on local infrastructure, especially traffic patterns. A representative for the applicant, associated with the Ala FAA Land Trust, acknowledged challenges in meeting parking requirements, with a stipulation for one guest vehicle space per every five units. They expressed their intention to work with city staff to meet these conditions.

The board deliberated on the requirement for a traffic study, a point of contention during the meeting. While the zoning code mandates a traffic study only under special circumstances, the applicant proposed a more limited traffic engineer’s letter detailing expected trip generation and traffic direction. This suggestion was met with some resistance as board members considered the cumulative impact of ongoing and future developments in the area. Ultimately, a compromise was reached, requiring the submission of a traffic engineer’s letter as part of the project’s conditions for approval.

The decision to approve the zoning change included additional conditions, such as utilities being placed underground, compliance with off-street parking regulations, and adherence to unified control requirements. The motion was passed unanimously by the board members present.

In another important development, the board discussed the annexation of a parcel on Huston Avenue. This 0.19-acre property aims to connect to city water and sewer systems, transitioning its designation from Putnam County Urban Reserve to City of Palatka residential low density. The annexation was supported by staff recommendations, emphasizing that the change would not contribute to urban sprawl and was consistent with the area’s established residential character. The board raised concerns about the adequacy of infrastructure, particularly for older homes still using septic systems. These concerns did not impede the annexation.

The meeting also addressed a request to annex and rezone a 0.23-acre parcel on Krill Avenue. This proposal involved changing the land use from Putnam County Agriculture to City of Palatka Single Family Residential to facilitate the property’s connection to city utilities. The property owner, Jacob Spell, expressed personal reasons for the annexation, highlighting family needs and the convenience it would provide. The board approved the annexation and accompanying map amendments without opposition, enabling Spell to proceed with his plans.

Public comments were solicited, although only a few community members engaged in the discussions.