The meeting’s focal point was a detailed examination of the land development code update, which included numerous modifications aimed at efficiency and clarity. A notable change was the transition to an administrative approval process for plats, now mandated under Florida statutes 177.091. This adjustment removes the requirement for city council approval, emphasizing the land use administrator’s role. The change is designed to expedite the approval process.

Further amendments were made to the site development order requirements, particularly for non-residential properties. These properties can now place detached accessory structures, such as outdoor seating, without needing site development order approval, provided they meet specific criteria. This exemption applies to structures under 500 square feet that do not impact on-site infrastructure or parking.

In addressing zoning and development permits, the language was relocated to more relevant sections, and overlapping provisions were streamlined for consistency. This restructuring includes revised maintenance guarantees, giving developers additional options beyond bonds, such as letters of credit or escrow, to fulfill their obligations.

The agency also revisited the permissible uses table within the zoning code, introducing several new uses and clarifying existing categories. Updates include the reinstatement of community residential homes as permissible in the downtown zoning district, aligning with the 2006 code. The modifications also account for retail square footage limits and provisions for vertical mixed-use developments, which can bypass certain restrictions. Additionally, light industry manufacturing was introduced as a special exception in specific districts, and government buildings are now permissible across a broader range of zoning categories.

During the session, the agency addressed density and intensity bonuses for public benefit, clarifying the calculation process to aid developers. Amendments to setback requirements were also discussed, introducing new tables for side and street side setbacks for detached accessory structures. For R1C zoning, setbacks were reduced for interior sidelines and street side rear property lines, promoting a more standardized approach to property development.

The agency also focused on right-of-way design widths, establishing requirements for furnishing zones and sidewalks to accommodate pedestrian traffic. This change was necessary due to not all arterial roads being under FDOT jurisdiction, prompting the need for city-specific standards.

Parking circulation areas and sign regulations were other topics. The agency proposed reducing the walkway width between parking aisles, which led to queries about its impact on accessibility. For signage, PUDs now require a master sign plan, with non-residential signs adhering to C1 zoning standards if such a plan is absent. Changes to the freestanding signs table were also made, updating setback language to reflect current needs.

Tree preservation and replacement schedules were revised to provide clarity on preservation credits and replacement requirements. The agency identified conflicts within the open space requirements, proposing the removal of exemptions for downtown core and transition areas while maintaining park provisions for mixed-use developments with residential components.

Further discussions examined zoning map amendments to resolve inconsistencies affecting 294 properties. These discrepancies stemmed from historical factors, prompting a significant rezoning effort to align with the comprehensive plan. The agency addressed specific zoning changes, including transitions from RP to PLI for certain properties.