The proposed development involves the construction of eight duplex-style townhouses, a plan that has been met with resistance from residents of Overlook Drive. This area, traditionally consisting of single-family homes, is witnessing potential shifts in its landscape with the rezoning from a single-family zoning district to a planned development district. The applicant provided plans consistent with the Mediterranean architecture style required by the city’s zoning ordinance and highlighted that they had not sought the maximum density allowed.

A resident living directly next to the property in question expressed fears over the impact on her property’s value and the potential for more intense development pressure. Another resident’s comments echoed these apprehensions about the proposed townhomes’ compatibility with the neighborhood. They underscored a sentiment of gradual encroachment that threatens the community’s fabric.

In response to the community’s concerns, the developer emphasized the deterioration of the house currently on the property and the opportunity presented by the sale of the house by its long-time owner. The developer also outlined their commitment to the city’s housing goals, advocating for the proposed development as a means to provide diverse and affordable housing options within Temple Terrace.

Aside from the rezoning debate, the council engaged in discussions about a new park development along the river. A unanimous decision was made to select the design firm Health Engineering for the project, with a service cost of over $488,000. The design includes provisions for staged construction and the capacity to host community events, while also preserving the sensitive wetland areas. Funding plans were deliberated with the outline of using $125,000 from Community Investment Tax funds and the remainder from the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) fund. The council discussed the TIF fund balance and projected revenues, including a forecast of anticipated revenues from properties coming online.

The park’s development raised concerns about parking for future events, prompting discussions on the potential need for shuttle services and the challenges posed by limited parking spaces. The city manager presented the plan as conceptual, with iterations expected through public input, emphasizing the importance of maintaining green space over parking facilities.

The latter included a moment of silence for 31 fallen K9 officers from various law enforcement agencies, with expressions of gratitude from the Vice President of the Westside chapter of the Knights of America motorcycle club.

In terms of city planning, the meeting featured a presentation on the Pedestrian master plan, which highlighted proposed improvements for the Springdale Pond area. The rationale for omitting significant improvements for the vacant Riverside Parcels and adjacent Riverside Park was due to a change in the city’s plans, removing the parcels from the list of available parcels for sale. The focus was shifted to a plan for enhancing amenities and the park lifestyle for that area.

The council members engaged in discussions on the scope of work for the new park, the timeline for its construction, and the project’s funding. Questions were raised about the TIF fund balance, the potential for staging or phasing the project, and the size of the space for event usage. Council member inquiries led to clarifications on the project’s design and engineering work, with the city manager affirming that the design would allow for phased construction.