The meeting’s focal point was the conditional use application for a new restaurant at the old Texaco station on St. John’s Avenue. Jim Trano, representing the property owner, presented the proposal to establish a family-oriented burger restaurant. Trano emphasized the community benefits, including potential tourism and tax revenue. He shared that local churches had provided supportive letters.

Tim Fanon, a business partner from 1821 Hospitality Group, elaborated on the restaurant’s concept, which would include a design echoing the original filling station’s architecture and seating for over 120 patrons. Fanon projected the creation of 35 to 50 jobs. During the discussion, the board delved into the restaurant’s bar setup, with Fanon confirming a focus on family-friendly dining. The discussion also touched on the restaurant’s impact on parking, requiring 43 spaces based on seating capacity. The board proposed that the applicant collaborate with the city to address parking needs.

Concerns about the absence of official support from St. Mary’s Episcopal Church were raised, despite other endorsements. The planning director clarified that although they had spoken with parishioner Mary Lawson Brown, she did not represent the church officially. Additional concerns were voiced about compliance with city requirements regarding alcohol service, particularly screening to prevent visibility from the street. The planning director confirmed proper notification procedures were followed.

The board approved the restaurant’s conditional use application, including provisions for parking demands and a six-month expiration condition if not executed.

Another topic was the approval of additional hotel rooms to a property on St. John’s Avenue. Jim Trano again addressed the board, representing Palatka RTG. He highlighted the project’s alignment with city code and its potential to revitalize downtown. Trano noted the project’s focus on the 200 block, requesting a conditional use permit for hotel rooms on the second floor of the 211 building. The project, he argued, would transform a blighted building into a vibrant space, with plans for a food court on the first floor and hotel rooms above.

The board sought clarification on the hotel’s room configuration, leading to a discussion. Trano confirmed there would be six suites with a total of eight rooms, despite initial confusion. The board emphasized the need for compliance with city codes and regulations.

Public comments highlighted concerns about the trend of increasing restaurants without sufficient retail options. A business owner from a quilting shop on St. John’s Avenue noted that her shop attracts over 9,000 visitors annually, with many customers expressing a desire for more shopping opportunities downtown. The owner also raised concerns about ongoing road construction and parking issues, advocating for prohibitions on construction crew parking on St. John’s Avenue to prevent disruptions.

Further debate centered on the proposed food court, which would offer diverse culinary options, including a bakery, pizza, and healthier meals. The board recognized the need for a balanced approach, combining dining and retail to sustain downtown’s economy.

The discussion also revisited the definition and requirements for operating a hotel in Florida. The proposed hotel on St. John’s Avenue was confirmed to meet state requirements for sleeping accommodations. However, concerns were raised about linking the project to the historic Hotel James, currently in disrepair. The board approved the conditional use application for the new hotel rooms, contingent on conditions outlined in the staff report.

Parking emerged as a recurring issue throughout the meeting. Multiple speakers expressed frustration about parking availability and management. Despite assurances from the developers to work with the city on parking solutions, tangible resolutions remained elusive. The board acknowledged the importance of adequate parking for the success of local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the conditional use application to add seven to eight hotel rooms to the second floor of the proposed location, excluding one condition but including others.