A primary focus of the meeting was the proposal to revert a parcel’s zoning from special use to multifamily 3 (MF3) and change the land use designation from religious institutional to multifamily low density. This reversion aims to restore the zoning to its historical MF3 classification, allowing the construction of eight new townhome units on a 20,000 square foot parcel northwest of the youth center. The development’s proposed freestanding buildings, each with a two-car garage, have sparked considerable debate.

Residents voiced concerns about the project’s impact on the neighborhood, particularly its massing and compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes. Pamela Pierce, a Coral Gables resident, stressed the need for a gradual transition in building height and density, arguing that the proposed townhomes would be imposing on adjacent single-family residences. She questioned the preservation of green and open spaces and emphasized the importance of examining the final site plan to maintain the area’s character.

Another resident, Chris, raised procedural issues regarding public information meetings. Carlos Carta, a resident on Anastasia Avenue, requested a 30-day delay to examine a settlement agreement related to the land, citing potential legal implications.

The developer’s representative countered public concerns by highlighting the proposal’s consistency with historical use, noting that multifamily buildings have existed on the site since 1949. They assured that the project aligns with the neighborhood’s established character and would adhere to landscaping requirements.

The debate extended to the commission, where a member noted that while the project proposed maintaining eight units, the increased size of these units could lead to a higher population density. Concerns were also raised about the potential heat island effect due to reduced green space. Despite differing opinions, one member defended the project’s compatibility by referencing the existing multifamily structures to the north.

Another topic was the conditional use application for property division on Alonso Avenue. The applicant sought to separate the 36,000 square foot property into two single-family building sites. The proposed sites would be larger than the average lot sizes in the area, and the application had received neighborhood support.

City staff recommended approval with conditions ensuring compliance with zoning requirements. There was discussion about the historical precedent of structures straddling property lines and the implications of such decisions. Commissioners praised the organized application process and community engagement.

In addition to development issues, the commission discussed text amendments to the city’s zoning code related to the Art and Public Places program. The amendments aim to refine the process, ensuring art integration into development projects, with a focus on timing fee payments to align with project completion. The amendments received support from the arts advisory panel and cultural development board.

The meeting also addressed proposed text amendments concerning attendance requirements for board members, requiring automatic termination after failing to attend two out of three consecutive meetings unless excused. Members debated the definitions of excused absences, particularly concerning medical conditions, and the decision-making authority for approving such absences.