Highland Beach Planning Board Approves Dock and Boat Lift Installations Amid Leadership Change

The Highland Beach Planning Board convened recently to deliberate and approve development applications, including a special exception for a boat lift installation and a new dock construction. The meeting also marked a transition in leadership, with a new chairperson elected following the announcement of the outgoing chairperson’s departure.

03:00The most substantial discussion centered around the development order application PZ-25-21 by Breezy Permit LLC. The request involved installing a 10,000-pound capacity boat lift on Russell Drive, Unit B. The town planner detailed the proposal, noting that the boat lift complied with local codes. However, the multifamily nature of the property sparked inquiries among board members regarding the potential impact on other residents. Miss Allen, who presented the application, confirmed that the property was indeed a multifamily structure and suggested that other boating residents would need to coordinate with the new installation.

06:14The applicant’s representative, Eileene Gonzalez, offered additional context, explaining that the Homeowners Association (HOA) had approved the boat lift. She clarified that the boats in the area were not permanently stationed, thus allowing for maneuverability. Despite concerns about the lack of defined slips and potential maneuverability issues, Gonzalez assured the board that the HOA president had reviewed and approved the plans.

15:29Another item on the agenda was the development order application from Belo Manor Condominium Association, seeking a special exemption for installing a 150-foot dock on Bell Air Drive. The proposal involved replacing an existing wood dock, though records of the original dock’s approval were unavailable. Miss Allen noted that the Florida Department of Environmental Protection had no objections to the proposal, despite discrepancies in the staff report regarding the proposed dock’s elevation and the number of piles required.

19:36The board discussed the choice of materials, with a preference for wood due to its cost-effectiveness. The application was approved unanimously after public comments were invited, though none were provided.

22:29A noteworthy aspect of the meeting was a moment of personal privilege taken by the chairperson, who announced the end of their term. They expressed gratitude to fellow board members and Miss Allen for her contributions. Following this announcement, nominations for a new chairperson were opened, and Eileen Rosen was nominated and confirmed as the new chairperson, effective June.

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.

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