The meeting’s primary focus was the proposed Laurel Cove residential development, managed by Concordia Group LLC and Mills Short and Associates LLC. The project seeks approval for a major site plan and preliminary plat for 165 residential units on a site zoned RM6, allowing up to six units per acre. However, the proposed density for Laurel Cove is set at 3.48 units per acre. The site, located between 66th Avenue and 64th Avenue, features an entrance on Schuman Drive, requiring coordination with the City of Sebastian’s engineering department for any necessary improvements related to the right-of-way or driveway.

A significant aspect of the discussion was the development’s stormwater management systems, including innovative rain gardens designed to enhance the landscape and provide effective stormwater treatment. These dry retention ponds, heavily landscaped with native plants, direct water through the rain gardens before it overflows into a wet retention pond during heavy rainfall. This approach was noted as unique within the county, garnering satisfaction from county staff regarding the development’s design.

The commissioners raised concerns about traffic flow at the development’s entrance, particularly the safety and efficiency of the proposed right-in and right-out movements, with a left turn lane for vehicles entering the development. One commissioner expressed confusion, seeking clarification on how southbound traffic would navigate after exiting the development. Staff explained that while there would be a left turn lane for incoming traffic, exiting vehicles would only be permitted to turn right, leading to suggestions that drivers might need to perform U-turns at nearby intersections.

The commission also discussed emergency access routes, with a proposed connection to 64th Avenue ensuring alternative entry for first responders. Concerns were raised about the potential misuse of these access points, leading to suggestions for signage and gated access to maintain their exclusive use for emergencies.

Additionally, the development’s design includes a native upland preserve area and a 25-foot landscape buffer along 66th Avenue and 87th Street. The internal layout features approximately ten-foot side setbacks between houses, with specific stipulations regarding rear yards, which would not accommodate swimming pools but may allow for small structures like sheds.

The commission addressed the development’s environmental impact, with the project described as a hybrid model between a conventional subdivision and a condominium. The development includes 165 single-family lots and exceeds the minimum preservation area requirements, allocating 65% of the site to open space, above the 40% mandated by code. Amenities such as dog parks, picnic areas, walking trails, and a community center with a pool cabana are incorporated into the design to enhance community engagement.

Moving on to regulatory matters, the commission examined proposed amendments to the land development regulations concerning mobile food dispensing vehicles. These amendments respond to state statutes limiting local government authority over food trucks’ licensing and fees while allowing regulation of location, hours of operation, and aesthetic standards. The proposed regulations stipulate that food trucks must vacate their premises by 10:30 p.m., unless part of an approved special event, and establish waste management protocols requiring self-contained refuse and liquid waste storage.

Parking regulations were addressed, prohibiting food trucks from occupying required parking spaces designated for the principal use of a property unless approved for a special event. Signage rules limit food trucks to one freestanding sign and prohibit inflatable or flashing signs. Additionally, food trucks must display appropriate state licenses and inspection reports.

A crucial requirement is obtaining written consent from property owners, which must be available upon request by county officials. The commission discussed zoning considerations for North and South County parks and reiterated the nightly relocation requirement for food trucks, even during multi-day events, with exceptions for special events.

The commission also considered the implications for long-term tenants of properties where food trucks might operate and noted differences in how the city manages food truck operations. The discussion concluded with a motion to approve the proposed regulations, which passed unanimously, and a brief exchange about the upcoming schedule for the first meeting of the next year.