The primary focus of the Port Orange Planning Commission’s meeting was the application for a variance on Fox Haven Court. The property owners sought to rebuild the existing dock and boat house, which is in a state of decay and often underwater during high tides. The variance was necessary to exceed the current standards for boat house height, platform area, and setback from the property line. The compelling discussion revolved around the proposed height of the structure, with the initial suggestion being a 15-foot elevation. However, concerns about the adequacy of this height in relation to high tide levels led to a debate among the Commissioners. After careful consideration, an amendment was approved to increase the allowable height to 18 feet to better accommodate tidal changes and minimize the potential impact on the adjacent mangroves.

The discourse on the variance highlighted the complexities of coastal property development, especially the need to balance environmental concerns with the rights and needs of property owners. In this case, the property owner presented clear evidence of the dock’s deteriorating condition, emphasizing the necessity of the variances to ensure a safe and functional structure. Additionally, the owner drew attention to the similarity in age and condition of neighboring docks and the existence of a conservation easement at the property’s edge, underlining the broader context of the request.

The meeting proceeded to the Seventh Amendment to the master development agreement for the Clark Professional Center, which proposed a unique transformation. The amendment plans to convert the site of a demolished house into a bed and breakfast, adopting a cottage complex arrangement. The applicant articulated that the primary aim was to serve wedding guests and maximize the use of existing facilities. The commissioners, after reviewing the proposed changes and definitions pertinent to a bed and breakfast establishment as well as commercial access, expressed their support for the amendment and approved it. This initiative was seen as a positive step towards enhancing the local hospitality offerings and leveraging the potential of the area for event-related accommodations.

Adjacent to this development, the Tenth Amendment to the master development agreement for the Crystal Lake planned unit development was another key focus of the meeting. This amendment concerned the designation of commercial and industrial uses for an 8.5-acre property owned by the city. There was a clear intent to market the property for sale, with predefined permissible uses to attract suitable buyers. The discussion touched upon the relevance of future land use plans and the possibility of including recreational vehicle storage among the allowed uses. The staff’s recommendation for approval was met with agreement from the Commissioners, who voted in favor of the amendment.