The most notable development during the meeting was the approval of the Myrtle Grove Community Redevelopment Plan, which is poised to transform the blighted area into a more vibrant community. This plan, presented by Max Rogers from the Escambia County Community Redevelopment Agency, outlines a comprehensive strategy to revitalize the region, which consists of 1,529.73 acres and over 3,700 parcels. The area is predominantly residential, with 82.3% of it classified as such, yet a substantial portion of housing is in fair to poor condition. The plan prioritizes affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and public safety enhancements, aiming to support low and moderate-income households, especially those classified under “ALICE” (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed).

Public input was a part of the planning process, with residents expressing a need for better infrastructure, increased public safety, and stronger private-public partnerships. Strategies outlined in the plan include the addition of community facilities, beautification projects, and housing assistance programs. A capital improvement list was also proposed, focused on sidewalk projects, stormwater drainage solutions, and sewer expansions. Financial backing for these initiatives is expected to come from mechanisms like tax increment financing (TIF), community development block grants, and private investments. In a notable move, the planning board proposed the county commission consider increasing the TIF capture rate from 75% to 95%, potentially boosting funding for local development.

While the Myrtle Grove plan was welcomed with a vote of 5 to 1, concerns over a separate rezoning request on East Nine Mile Road sparked considerable discussion. This proposal sought to transition the property from high-density mixed-use and heavy commercial/light industrial zoning to a uniform commercial zoning designation. The purpose, as explained by the applicant’s representative, was to enable the construction of a modern headquarters facility. Despite the staff’s findings that the rezoning met various criteria and aligned with the comprehensive plan, public comments raised issues.

Laura Mitchell, a business owner near the proposed site, expressed reservations about increased traffic and infrastructure inadequacies, referencing personal experiences of congestion and safety concerns. Similarly, Chris Kerb highlighted the inadequacy of current stormwater management standards, calling for updates to the county’s design criteria to mitigate potential flooding risks. The applicant’s representative responded by outlining plans for multiple access points to ease traffic flow and assured adherence to updated stormwater regulations.

The discussion also touched on another rezoning application for a property on West 10 Mile Road, currently used for self-storage facilities. The request sought to change the zoning from lower density mixed-use and medium density residential to commercial, aligning with the property’s long-standing non-conforming use. Public speakers, including John Schuman and Jodie Schuman Davis, voiced opposition due to traffic concerns and the potential disruption to the area’s residential character. These sentiments were echoed by Kerb, who reiterated the need for better stormwater management to accommodate increased density.

The board considered these public concerns, with staff clarifying that any development would need to comply with stormwater and land development regulations. In response to apprehensions about spot zoning, staff defended the proposal as a transitional buffer between residential and industrial areas. The applicant’s representative, Bo Ration, explained plans to develop a low-impact self-storage facility, emphasizing a commitment to community compatibility and regulatory compliance.