The most notable agenda item was the commission’s unanimous approval of a variance request, case number VC-24-D004, for the Shops at Summer Trees. The variance permits the reduction of the internal side building setback from 20 feet to zero feet, enabling the construction of two commercial lots with a shared common wall. A multi-tenant building is currently under construction on the site, having received site plan approval the previous February. The variance supports the future expansion of Aldi, as it would allow the grocery store to share a common wall with the multi-tenant building.

During the meeting, commission members engaged in detailed inquiries about the rationale behind the variance and the implications of the shared wall design. The applicant justified this approach as beneficial for tenant security through fee simple ownership, contrasting it with the uncertainties of lease renewals. Questions were raised about the timing of the subdivision process, with clarifications provided that it would allow separate ownership between the Aldi building and the multi-tenant structure. Discussions also confirmed that parking ratios would remain unchanged due to the shared infrastructure of the shopping center.

The applicant, Jessica Gaclaw, emphasized that pursuing a subdivision plat over a condominium format provides clearer easement and utility management. She highlighted that the design would facilitate effective stormwater management without complicating ownership boundaries. The city staff, after reviewing the variance criteria, recommended approval.

Following the variance approval, the commission swiftly moved to approve the related subdivision plat for the Shops at Summer Trees, identified as case number SUBD-24-D001. The applicant sought to subdivide a 5.83-acre site into two lots: one for a multi-tenant building and another for the Aldi grocery store. Penny Cruz, representing the planning department, explained that the review of the subdivision plat was a ministerial process, confirming that the application complied with the Land Development Code. The Technical Committee and the Staff Development Review Committee had already reviewed the plat, confirming its adherence to all necessary criteria. The commission expressed no further questions and unanimously approved the plat.

Another topic was an amendment to the Master Development Agreement for the Meline Commons Planned Development. The amendment proposed installing rapid flashing beacon signs and a flashing stop sign at the Sugar Mill Elementary School’s parent pickup and drop-off driveway, replacing a previously agreed-upon six-foot privacy fence. The original fence requirement arose from a school request, but construction considerations revealed it would impact a protected wetland area. Discussions with the Volusia County School District, planning staff, and the police department led to the conclusion that existing landscaping and a chain-link fence provided adequate security. The proposed signs aim to enhance pedestrian crossing safety.

Commission members inquired about the community engagement process and the effectiveness of the new signage. Reassurances were given that local school staff and law enforcement were consulted about the safety measures. The commission expressed support for the amendment, acknowledging the advantages of eliminating the fence requirement for better visibility and safety. The amendment was unanimously approved following no further public discussion.