A significant item discussed was PB Case 2327, concerning the final plat application for the PAC Camal Subdivision on North State Road 19. The subdivision aims to divide a 3163-acre parcel into four parcels, creating three new out parcels. City staff had reviewed the case for several months, recommending approval after a contracted independent surveyor reported no concerns. The applicant’s representative, Autumn Martinage, presented the subdivision details, noting its commercial use and intensive commercial zoning classification.

However, board member Earl Wallace expressed dissatisfaction with the plat, citing unresolved concerns despite multiple submissions. He emphasized the importance of clear documentation to avoid future complications, especially regarding the legal descriptions and the designation of the plat as a replat of the existing subdivision per Florida Statutes, specifically statute 177. City staff responded, indicating that Wallace’s issues were addressed in the latest submission and recommended approval, contingent on correcting identified scrivener’s errors before presenting it to the city commission.

Despite Wallace’s objections, the board passed a motion to recommend approval of the final plat, with three in favor and one opposed.

The meeting then addressed an application for annexation and related land use and zoning changes for two parcels on The M Glory Drive. The applicant requested amendments for a 31-acre parcel and an additional recently acquired parcel. The staff recommended changes to the future land use designation of parcel A and rezoning parcel B to a Planned Unit Development (PUD). Concerns about the proposed density and traffic flow were discussed, with staff recommending an underlying designation of multifamily residential R3, along with the PUD overlay.

The board approved the annexation of parcel A and the amendments to the future land use designations, both motions passing unanimously.

The board also reviewed Case PB 23-19 concerning the Mosley Heights preliminary plat, which proposed subdividing a tract into six residential lots. The property, currently zoned R1AA, would remain unchanged in its future land use. The staff recommended approval, contingent on several conditions, including utility and drainage easements, proof of current property tax payments, and a title opinion from a licensed attorney.

Applicant representative Toby McGan confirmed compliance with these conditions, noting that utilities could be installed without easements and clarifying drainage plans due to sold property. Public comments were generally supportive, with residents emphasizing the importance of considering the neighborhood impact, preserving green space, and addressing traffic concerns. The board approved the preliminary plat, contingent upon addressing all raised comments, passing the motion unanimously.

The final agenda item featured a presentation by Monica Dominguez from the Northeast Florida Regional Council on the draft final report of the City of Palatka Vision Plan. The comprehensive plan update, involving extensive community feedback through public meetings and surveys, highlighted the community’s desire for diverse housing options, more amenities like parks and community centers, and improved waterfront access.

The community also expressed interest in commercial development, including revitalizing the local mall and adding a movie theater. Street lighting and infrastructure supporting pedestrian and bicycle traffic were emphasized, along with preserving the natural environment and supporting bioswales. The draft vision underscored community pride, focusing on enhancing existing infrastructure, reducing blight, and promoting mixed-use projects along commercial corridors.