The meeting’s primary focus was the rezoning application submitted by Lceto and Associates on behalf of Martin Commerce Park LLC. The property, located south of Southwest Martin Highway, was previously known as the Martingale Estate Subdivision. The application sought to change the zoning from a limited industrial district to a planned unit development (PUD). The development’s master site plan included five phases with a proposed total non-residential building area of 1,100,000 square feet. The plan detailed trailer parking and outdoor storage areas, with a significant proposal to increase the maximum building height from 30 feet to 40 feet.

The developers committed to public benefits, including donating land for a fire station in western Palm City within 120 days of the PUD approval and restoring 2.75 acres of upland habitat. The master site plan met development standards, proposing a maximum building coverage of 15.11% on the site, with 54.2% open space, exceeding the minimum requirement. The site layout included a preserve area tract of 27.3 acres, featuring various wetlands and additional upland habitat restoration.

Representatives from Lceto and Associates confirmed that the necessary notices had been sent to surrounding property owners and reiterated their agreement with the staff’s recommendations. The developers also mentioned ongoing work with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding permitting, which was taking longer than expected.

Traffic management emerged as a concern during the meeting, particularly the proposal to establish a signalized intersection at Steuart West Boulevard and Martin Highway. A signal warrant analysis supported the need for traffic lights, which would operate throughout the day. Discussions considered the possibility of actuating the signal based on traffic flow to minimize disruptions.

Another highlight was the proposal to increase the standard height limit for industrial buildings from 30 feet to 40 feet to meet modern tenant needs. The growth management director acknowledged that the 30-foot limit was relatively recent, and the board considered initiating a code change to standardize height limits across similar developments.

Ashley Capital, described as a reputable investment firm with a history of developing light industrial parks, intends to retain ownership of the lots and operate the park long-term. The firm has invested in improving the preserve areas on the property and the adjacent conservation easement. The commitment to enhancing public infrastructure, providing jobs, and increasing the county’s tax base was highlighted as a positive impact of the development.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the project, receiving unanimous board approval. The growth management director announced the next meeting date, signaling continued engagement with similar proposals in the future.