Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustment Grapples with Variance Requests
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting, the Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustment deliberated on several variance requests that sparked debate over neighborhood impact and property development norms. The most contentious item on the agenda involved a request by Rick Johnson for setback relief and lot coverage variance on Ocean Drive. Johnson aimed to replace an existing rundown house with a new single-family residence, citing the lot’s irregular shape as a rationale for the request. The request was consistent with prior variances in the area, according to the applicant’s presentation.
Johnson’s proposal was supported by the project’s architect, Colin Spelt, who highlighted the narrowness of the lot and the goal to construct a house comparable in size to those of neighboring properties. Despite these arguments, the proposal faced opposition from Lake Deal, a neighboring property owner. Deal presented diagrams to illustrate his concerns that the new structure would disrupt the view and setback alignment for adjacent properties, potentially altering the neighborhood’s character.
The Board of Adjustment also considered a variance request for a property on Ocean Drive, where the applicant sought permission for increased lot coverage. The proposed design of the house aimed to utilize the available space effectively while maintaining the street’s aesthetic. The board assessed the implications for setbacks and the street’s character before a motion was made and seconded to approve the variance.
Another case involved property at 7741 14th Avenue South, where the owners requested variances for lot coverage and the construction of a swimming pool and deck. The applicant disclosed that the property already exceeded the allowed lot coverage and argued that the addition of a pool and deck would be in line with the neighborhood’s standards, noting support from the neighbors. The board scrutinized the proposed distance of the pool from the house, debating whether it met the minimum requirement. A motion was eventually made to approve the variance with a potential amendment to ensure the pool would be at least five feet from the residence.
In addition to variance requests, the planning department presented a report on the comprehensive plan. The meeting concluded following this presentation.
Public comment periods allowed for direct interaction between the community members and the board.
Christine Hoffman
Zoning Board Officials:
Owen Curley, Jeff Truhlar, John Moreland, Todd Smith, Jennifer Williams, Matt Metz, Laura Tierney
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
05/07/2024
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Recording Published:
05/07/2024
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Duration:
28 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Duval County
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Towns:
Jacksonville Beach
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