Escambia Planning Board: Rezoning Application for High-Density Residential Withdrawn Amid Community Opposition
- Meeting Overview:
During the recent Escambia County Planning Board meeting, a rezoning application for the 600 block of Cessna Road was withdrawn after the applicant, represented by Meredith Bush, cited community opposition and unfavorable staff findings. The proposal aimed to change the zoning from medium-density residential, allowing 10 dwelling units per acre, to high-density residential, permitting 18 units per acre. Initially, the request sought commercial zoning, but after discussions with the community, the applicant shifted to a residential focus. Despite these adjustments, the community’s concerns prompted the withdrawal. The board acknowledged that the applicant retains the right to reapply in the future if desired.
In addition to the rezoning discussion, the Planning Board reviewed an ordinance amendment concerning certified recovery residences. The ordinance aims to establish a formal process for how such residences can request reasonable accommodations under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. This development is in response to state legislation mandating formalized procedures. The ordinance requires applicants to submit written requests detailing the specific land development code requirements at issue and justifying why an accommodation is necessary. Each request will be evaluated individually to ensure it aligns with federal law and does not impose undue burdens on the county. The board approved the amendment, which now allows for a structured approach to addressing requests from certified recovery residences.
Wes Moreno
Planning Board Officials:
Jay A. Ingwell, William Van Horn II, Walker Wilson, Eric L. Fears, Ben Nelson, Tim Pyle, Reid W. Rushing, Stephen Opalenik (US Navy), Kevin Adams (Escambia County School Board)
-
Meeting Type:
Planning Board
-
Committee:
-
Meeting Date:
01/06/2026
-
Recording Published:
01/06/2026
-
Duration:
16 Minutes
-
Notability Score:
Routine
Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:
-
State:
Florida
-
County:
Escambia County
-
Towns:
Bellview, Brent, Century, Ensley, Ferry Pass, Gonzalez, Goulding, Molino, Myrtle Grove, Naval Air Station Pensacola, Pensacola, Warrington, West Pensacola
Recent Meetings Nearby:
- 01/08/2026
- 01/08/2026
- 195 Minutes
- 01/08/2026
- 01/08/2026
- 256 Minutes
- 01/08/2026
- 01/08/2026
- 94 Minutes