The zoning change request, submitted by Benjamin Zelaskowski, aimed to reclassify the property to permit mobile homes, citing the presence of wetlands as a deterrent to traditional homebuyers. During the public comment session residents voiced strong opposition to the change, citing concerns about community impact and property values. Mark Moody, a resident living across from the property, highlighted the potential negative implications of approving the change, including deterring future development of a planned residential community. He emphasized that such a development would better contribute to tax revenue than mobile homes could.

Bill Boer, another resident, expressed confusion over the zoning plan and voiced fears that allowing mobile homes might lower property values. He reiterated that past experiences suggested such changes could be detrimental to the area. Similarly, David Batton, who lives nearby, shared his opposition, particularly against rental trailers, while Vincent Castle, residing adjacent to the property, raised concerns about flooding exacerbated by previous land alterations. His fears were compounded by the possibility of being encircled by mobile homes, intensifying existing water management challenges.

Connie Castell added another layer of concern, focusing on traffic safety due to the property’s proximity to a busy road. She argued that introducing mobile homes could compromise safety for residents and businesses. Anthony Grider, representing his family’s trust, opposed the change, advocating for maintaining the land’s natural state to honor his mother’s legacy, favoring single-family homes over mobile home developments.

In response to the strong community opposition, the council debated the necessity of further investigation into the wetlands and potential impacts of the zoning change. The discussion led to a consensus to delay the decision, allowing time for additional research, particularly a wetlands report. Consequently, the council motioned and unanimously approved tabling the decision until the December meeting.

Beyond the zoning issue, the meeting addressed other matters. Miss Shepard took the floor to discuss the CPACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing opportunity, advocating for its adoption in Bradford County. She outlined the program’s safeguards against predatory lending, drawing a distinction from its residential counterpart, RPACE. Shepard emphasized the program’s regulatory oversight, led by Rob Harvey, and downplayed concerns about potential foreclosures, clarifying that any financial issues would be managed at the developer level without affecting individual property owners.

The council proceeded to approve the consent agenda, after which Farah Rajay presented an audit report from Jane Moore and Company. Rajay highlighted a qualified opinion, consistent with the prior year, and noted improvements within the sheriff’s office, which saw a reduction in recommendations from four to three. The report pointed to the need for external assistance for periodic review and accounting record reconciliation prior to audits. Discussions on the county’s financial health revealed an 8% increase in the fund balance.

Amy Robinson from the Florida Department of Transportation updated the council on the DOT work program, detailing the timeline for the tentative five-year plan from fiscal years 2027 to 2031. She elaborated on projects such as resurfacing state roads and a safety median barrier on US 301, and noted the secured funding for the Butler State Trail project, slated for design and construction in 2027. The council expressed appreciation for these developments, particularly the Southeast 9th Avenue trailhead project, recognizing its potential to enhance community safety and accessibility.

Additional infrastructure discussions covered the pedestrian bridge construction and sidewalk projects. The bridge project faced a decision between a concrete or metal structure, with construction rescheduled for January 5, 2026. The Northwest 177th Avenue sidewalk project awaits further funding, whereas a sidewalk from Lincoln City Park to US 301 is pending a draft contract. Both initiatives progressed, with the local programs office reviewing necessary documents.

The meeting also revisited the PACE program, with Mr. Huitt’s remote presentation emphasizing stakeholder support for the initiative. A resolution to authorize PACE within the county was proposed and approved, along with a limited purpose party membership agreement related to the resiliency and energy district collaboration.