Gulf County Council Approves Land Use Change from Residential to Mixed Commercial

In a recent Gulf County Council meeting, members voted unanimously to approve a land use change from residential to mixed commercial for a 0.41-acre property located on Highway 71 South in Wewahitchka, Florida. The property, owned by Christopher and Jamie Bunch, was incorrectly sold as mixed commercial residential, causing issues when the Bunches planned to establish a nursery on the site. The Planning Board had previously voted 3-0 in favor of the change. The Council also discussed a demolition request from the city of Port St. Joe and a significant bid award for a construction project.

During the meeting, after waiving the quasi-judicial hearing, the Council addressed the Bunches’ request. A representative from the planning department, Mr. Crane, explained the mistake made by the realtor and the necessity for the land use change to allow the Bunches to proceed with their business plans. Following the presentation, the Council moved swiftly to a vote, waiving the formal reading and approving the land use change with no public opposition.

The Council then considered a request from the city of Port St. Joe for assistance with demolition projects. The city would cover the tipping fees while the Council agreed to provide the demolition services. The Council approved the request unanimously, emphasizing that while they did not want this to become a free service, they acknowledged the public benefit in this instance.

Another item discussed was the acceptance of a low bid for a construction project. Roberts and Roberts won the bid at a price considered very favorable by the Council members. The project involves construction work within the county, and the bid was awarded with one abstention and no opposition from the other members.

Lastly, the Council heard an appeal from Ronald Quackenbush, a resident who sought a waiver from the requirement of an operational plan and seal for the construction of an elevated deck around his home. After discussion, it was clarified that even certified contractors in Gulf County must follow the ordinance of presenting engineered plans for elevated structures. The Council ultimately decided to uphold the existing regulations and denied Mr. Quackenbush’s request unanimously.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

Receive debriefs about local meetings in your inbox weekly:

is discussed during:
in these locations: