The most notable agenda item involved Lindy Incorporated’s proposal to change the land use designation of a 10.46-acre parcel from light industrial to heavy industrial. Lindy, known for supplying industrial gases to Kennedy Space Center and NASA, is seeking to expand its production capabilities to meet increased demand. The proposal involves constructing a new cold box to enhance the facility’s output of liquid oxygen and other gases essential for space missions.

During the meeting, Kimberly Renka, representing Lindy, detailed the company’s long history in Mims. She explained that the facility, operational since 1966, has been pivotal in supporting NASA’s space endeavors. Renka addressed the lack of adjacent developed housing, noting that the surrounding area primarily consists of industrial uses with some small homes nearby. The proposed expansion aims to cater to the evolving needs of the space industry while also promising economic benefits, such as job creation for local residents.

Ben Vasquez, Lindy’s facility manager, added that the expansion is driven by the necessity to adapt to the growing demands of the space sector. The need for a zoning change was attributed to the introduction of chemical manufacturing processes, although the facility’s primary output remains oxygen.

Public concerns were raised by Sandra Sullivan from Patrick Shores, who questioned the necessity of a heavy industrial designation and advocated for maintaining a buffer to protect nearby residential areas. Sullivan emphasized potential risks, such as noise pollution and flooding, given the site’s location in a FEMA-designated flood hazard zone. She urged the board to consider these factors carefully to prevent adverse impacts on surrounding properties.

In response to these concerns, board members clarified that the expansion’s focus was strictly on increasing the facility’s capacity to serve NASA and other contractors. They assured that any residential development near the facility would adhere to environmental regulations, particularly regarding wetlands preservation. Despite the concerns, the board unanimously approved the zoning change, recognizing the importance of supporting the space industry’s growth while balancing environmental considerations.

Another notable discussion revolved around an application by Henry Laquer, who is seeking to establish a deer farm in Grant, Florida. Laquer outlined plans to build a pole barn and raise white-tailed deer for genetic purposes, specifically breeding for larger antlers. The board unanimously approved the application after confirming the focus on genetics and addressing any concerns about the project’s feasibility.

The meeting also addressed various other zoning requests, including a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment from RHR Construction and Development LLC. The request involved changing the future land use designation of a property on Curtis Boulevard from Planned Industrial to Residential 4, facilitating future residential development. Despite the property’s unique characteristics, including a drainage ditch easement dividing the lot, the board unanimously recommended approval for the land use and zoning changes.

Similarly, Wanda and Dennis Crocker’s request to change the zoning classification of their property in District 1 from Agricultural Use to Rural Residential received unanimous approval. The board encountered minimal opposition to these changes.