The most significant event of the meeting was the approval of ordinance 2020-404, which seeks to rezone a property from residential multifamily to R-61 and two-family residential. The property, located on East Harrison Street, is a single vacant parcel of approximately 13,000 square feet. Habitat for Humanity, the applicant, intends to split the property into two conforming lots to build single-family homes.

The planning supervisor provided a detailed context about the property and its surrounding area, noting that the property was originally part of three lots platted in 1961 and had undergone various changes over the years. The proposed development aims to contribute to infill housing and neighborhood stability while promoting efficient use of existing infrastructure. Although the proposed housing is moderately priced, it does not meet the state’s definition of affordable housing.

During the discussion, Commissioner Eisner inquired about the zoning change implications, specifically whether it would allow for two properties due to the difference in square footage requirements. Staff confirmed that the new zoning would permit development on the 13,500 square foot lot, which would not be possible under the existing zoning that requires 14,000 square feet for two properties. The first reading of the ordinance passed unanimously, with the second reading scheduled for August 20th.

Commissioners expressed gratitude towards Habitat for Humanity and city staff for their collaboration in transforming non-conforming lots into conforming ones through this rezoning. The importance of ensuring that current residents of Tarpon Springs would be given the first opportunity to purchase homes built through Habitat for Humanity’s Affordable Home Ownership program was highlighted. Commissioner Koulianos expressed strong support for Habitat for Humanity, noting the positive impact of their work in the community.

Another prominent topic was the public comment segment, where concerns about water quality were raised. David Ballard Geddis Jr. from Palm Harbor voiced worries about reclaimed water being injected into the aquifer, referencing a recent congressional address and linking it to local water programs. He questioned the safety of reclaimed water policies, emphasizing potential hazards. Robert Rockline, another resident, expressed gratitude towards the Public Works Director for improvements in the city and suggested making recordings of Technical Review Committee meetings available online for public access.

The meeting also addressed the approval of the city manager employment agreement for Charles Rudd. A resident raised concerns about the lack of discussion regarding parameters for the agreement and expressed a desire for comparative information about the previous city manager’s contract. Despite these concerns, the resident concluded that the proposed contract was fair. The city manager described the contract negotiation as “very easy” and “fair,” noting that the retirement plan included was standard for city employees.

The commissioners also discussed procedural aspects of meetings, particularly the order of public comments and the timing of meetings. Suggestions were made to extend the public comment time limit during Zoom meetings from two to three minutes and to streamline proceedings by removing Zoom comments from the beginning of meetings and the consent agenda. The idea of starting meetings earlier, at 6:00 PM instead of 6:30 PM, was proposed to help staff avoid prolonged waits after their regular work hours. Additionally, there was a consensus on ensuring that visual aids used during public comments are documented appropriately and included in the public record.

The meeting concluded with a quasi-judicial proceeding regarding an ordinance involving a rezoning application from Habitat for Humanity. The planning supervisor reiterated the importance of evidence-based decision-making and adherence to established criteria during quasi-judicial hearings. The structured approach underlined the necessity for the Board to act in accordance with the law and the standards set forth in the city’s ordinances.