The resident’s public comments brought to light the frustrations with the city’s decision-making process and the hurdles developers face in obtaining clear guidelines for projects. The resident mentioned the potential financial contributions he and his wife were willing to make to the city.

In response to public comments, the council mapped out the sequence of actions related to the proposed zoning changes. They discussed undoing an unnecessary A1 zoning change and the first reading of the ordinance to allow RV parks in a planned unit development (PUD) zoning district. Additionally, there was a focus on the materials allowed for internal roadways of circulation within the proposed ordinance, with a council member calling for additional research on the matter.

The debate on the requirements for road construction, particularly concerning emergency vehicle access, was another focal point of the meeting. Council members deliberated on the language in the regulations that would ensure roads within an RV park are passable for emergency vehicles. There was a consensus on the necessity for roads to meet Florida fire prevention code, Life Safety Code, and current NFPA standards. Questions were raised about how code enforcement and fire department inspections would be carried out on private property.

The potential development of an RV park within city limits prompted a discussion on the impact of such a change on the community, including infrastructure and safety regulations. The council decided to pause the discussion and seek more information from a planner before making a final decision.

Discussions also centered on the Comprehensive Land Use Plan Committee’s final draft scope of services, which proposed a Community Vision Workshop to gather input on the redevelopment of the Cody River Landing. The estimated cost of $155,000 for this project led to debate over the inclusion of a question about RV parks and the appropriate funding source, with suggestions to use funds from the Penny for Pasco or the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

The council considered the purchase of a 2024 Nissan Aria engage electric crossover SUV for the building department using the Florida Sheriff’s Association Cooperative purchasing program contract. The purchase was to be covered by the fiscal year 2023-24 budget in the Penny for Pasco fund. There was a debate about whether to include the question about RV parks in the project. The discussion also addressed the specifications of the vehicle purchase and the budget allocation for it.

A significant portion of the meeting delved into the debate over whether to proceed with a proposal to change the comprehensive plan to allow for the possibility of an RV park. Concerns were raised about the broad implications of allowing RV parks anywhere within city limits. The need for input from a planner to understand the potential effects of the proposed change was emphasized.

Furthermore, the council discussed the redevelopment of the Waterfront area, potentially hindered by existing density and height requirements. Ver Consulting Inc, the city’s planning consultant, presented a scope of services for input on a vision for the Cody River Landing area. The council approved a resolution adopting a sponsorship policy for the city, stemming from budget discussions regarding the Fireworks program, and a resolution for the Statewide Mutual Aid agreement.