The council’s agenda also covered a range of zoning and planning issues, each eliciting thorough discussions and decisions. One key topic was a variance request for the installation of an underground pool and fence on Northeast 85th Street. Despite not meeting the required 45-foot front setback and potentially exceeding the maximum lot coverage, the applicant’s willingness to comply with additional conditions, including the removal of an existing concrete pad and compliance with archaeological regulations, led to the council’s approval of the request. The council took into account the property’s dense surrounding foliage, which would shield the pool from public view, and the unique characteristics of the property’s location.

Another variance request approved by the council involved the height of hedges on Northeast 87th Street. The property owner had planted hedges to serve as a visual barrier due to the busy corner location and concerns over unwanted trespassers. The council debated the need for a more comprehensive approach to hedge variances in the village, ultimately granting the request with a height constraint condition.

The council also addressed an application for a lot split on Northwest 88th Street. The proposal sought to divide the existing 20,000 square-foot lot, with a house built in 1946, into two lots of approximately 9,800 square feet each. The intention was to demolish the existing house, which does not comply with current setbacks, and develop two new lots consistent with the surrounding area. Some council members expressed reservations about the impact of the lot split on the neighborhood’s character, yet the proposal was approved with conditions, including the requirement for the new homes to have different architectural designs.

Additionally, the council considered a proposal for an outdoor lighting permit process to address concerns about light pollution. The proposal suggested that residents looking to add or change outdoor lighting should submit site plans and details of the lumens projected from the lighting. The council sought to ensure that the village’s actions were aligned with the county’s regulations and that outdoor lighting did not become a nuisance to neighboring properties. Ultimately, the council deferred the item to the next planning and zoning committee meeting to gather more information on the potential fees and costs.

The meeting also touched on the interpretation of lot coverage, particularly whether driveways made of certain materials should be considered impervious or pervious. The building official supported clarifying the definition of lot coverage to prevent confusion and drainage issues for new projects.

During the Good and Welfare portion, a resident inquired about the change in companies for Planning and Zoning without receiving a clear resolution. Additionally, concerns were voiced about the enforcement of a Miami-Dade County ordinance related to nuisance light trespass and the treatment of multiple variance requests for fences and hedges. Another resident highlighted discrepancies in the owner-builder permit process for septic tank repair, prompting the council to request further details for investigation.