The primary discussion revolved around the need to amend land development regulations to support homeowners elevating their structures to comply with floodplain regulations. The existing code poses significant challenges, particularly concerning setback requirements that hinder homeowners from adding necessary structural elements, like staircases, to elevated homes. The commission acknowledged these challenges and discussed potential code modifications to facilitate easier access for elevated homes while staying within existing footprints. One homeowner’s property on Vivian Avenue exemplified the difficulties faced, as the structure could not accommodate stairs due to current setback rules.

The commission considered creating new code provisions to expedite permit approvals without overhauling the entire land development regulations. This approach was intended to address the elevation of single-family homes swiftly. The conversation extended to multifamily lots within the R2 zoning district, where complications arose from substandard lot sizes and existing duplexes that straddled lot lines, complicating the permit process.

The commission explored ways to amend the code to allow for small decks or landings that could provide access while minimally encroaching on setbacks, enabling homeowners to elevate their homes without major structural rearrangements.

In addition to the elevation code revisions, the meeting addressed the process of managing unfit and unsafe structures in the community. The building department is tasked with identifying and inspecting properties deemed unsafe, with an option for the city to demolish properties and place liens if owners do not comply within a specified timeframe. Concerns were raised about the speed of this process, with suggestions for streamlining it by having contractors ready to act when necessary. The importance of communication between residents and building officials was emphasized, highlighting a preference for collaborative efforts over immediate demolition.

An update on the community’s master plan was also provided, detailing meetings with the Department of Transportation and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. An open house was scheduled for July 22nd to gather final input on the draft master plan, with community development and long-range planning issues set to be discussed.