Treasure Island Approves Parking Lot and Condo Hotel Plans
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Meeting Type:
Planning BoardZoning Board
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Meeting Date:
05/30/2024
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Recording Published:
06/03/2024
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Duration:
191 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Treasure Island
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Treasure Island Planning and Zoning Board meeting, an array of development projects were discussed, with the most attention-grabbing deliberations centering around the approval of a new public parking lot and a five-story over parking condo hotel structure. These developments, which promise to affect the local landscape and community significantly, were met with varying opinions from board members, the public, and business owners.
The discussion on the proposed parking lot on Sunshine Lane was particularly intense. The applicant, Braio Gales, presented a plan for a parking lot featuring 46 spaces, including two for handicapped parking, within the RFH50 zoning district. Emphasizing compliance with regulations, Gales outlined the lot’s hours of operation, access points, security measures, and a permit and exemption from relevant authorities. Board members interrogated various elements of the proposal, focusing on security enforcement, future development plans, and public accessibility. One of the issues raised was whether the parking lot would remain public or become private, considering historical precedents and potential implications for accessibility. The board’s staff recommended approval of the site plan with conditions related to permits and utilities. Public concerns ranged from environmental impacts to the lot’s effect on beach access and traffic flow.
Scott Bonavita, owner of the adjacent Sand Dun Suites, voiced concerns about the necessity of the parking lot, citing the ample parking already available and the potential increase in traffic and environmental impact. The board debated various conditions, such as the inclusion of garbage cans, and ultimately approved the project with conditions, including designated operation hours and overnight parking restrictions, a decision that saw one member dissent.
The proposal for a five-story parking condo hotel structure also sparked debate. The applicant and their team presented the project as a transformation of an old hotel property, focusing on safety improvements and compliance with zoning regulations. Questions arose about the rooftop deck, cabana ownership, and the impact of future building code changes. The board was satisfied with the compliance with height restrictions but raised concerns about maintenance and improvements to the area’s aesthetics.
In another development, the board addressed the proposal to vacate a section of Sunshine Lane for the creation of a one-way street, which led to discussions on beach access and traffic management. The applicant clarified they were meeting zoning regulations and discussed plans for easements to accommodate utility access.
Public commentary highlighted the changing landscape of Treasure Island, with some voices advocating for the preservation of its charm, while others supported new improvements. The board also discussed the Elevate Treasure Island code requirements, which aim to guide the development of properties within the city.
The meeting further included discussions on the ownership and usage of land near the boardwalk and beach trail, especially the use of cabanas and chairs, and whether these amenities are known to be available for public use. A member of the public commended the city’s progressive setback requirements.
An applicant, Ali Mad, clarified intentions to reside and maintain a property in Treasure Island, leading to board discussions on regulations for condo hotels. The board approved the site plan for a 17-unit motel with specific conditions after reviewing the length of stay restrictions for condo hotel owners.
Finally, the board considered a site plan for a four-story over parking multifamily dwelling structure at 10126 Golf Boulevard. Public concerns were raised about the building’s height, with one resident expressing reservations about the scale but acknowledging the inevitability of progress. The applicant reassured the board of their commitment to quality design and maintenance. With the board’s decision to approve the site plan with conditions, the meeting concluded with discussions on meeting frequencies and the importance of ongoing communication among board members.
Tyler Payne
Planning Board, Zoning Board Officials:
Richard Harris, Ross Sanchez, Michael Hurtubise, Marvin Shavlan, Lynn Fisher, Diana Crabill, Linda Driscoll, Gary Potenziano, Chris Downing
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board, Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
05/30/2024
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Recording Published:
06/03/2024
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Duration:
191 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Treasure Island
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