The land use and zoning change proposal, driven by VimarDev LLC and Cunningham Investors LLC, aims to facilitate the development of commercial uses on the site, which is currently designated for public use. The property is surrounded by residential developments, notably the Villimar subdivision, raising substantial public concern about the potential impacts of the commercial development on the community.

Public attendees voiced apprehensions primarily about increased traffic congestion and the risk of crime associated with new commercial establishments. Residents highlighted that the introduction of commercial businesses could double traffic in the area, citing the proximity of existing commercial venues such as a Publix and a 7-Eleven. There was also significant concern about the potential for crime, with residents worried about commercial developments attracting undesirable activity. One resident, Wendy Coutiner, specifically noted concerns about trespassing and safety for children due to the current landscape of trees and swamp land that borders her property.

In response to community concerns, the Planning Board and staff emphasized that the proposal was currently focused on zoning and land use changes rather than immediate construction. They assured the public that any actual development would require the necessary infrastructure improvements to handle the projected traffic increases, adhering to concurrency requirements. This means that a development permit would only be issued if existing infrastructure could support the additional traffic. Staff also noted that a six-foot opaque fence and a substantial buffer of trees would be installed to create a separation between the new commercial use and existing residential properties, addressing concerns about privacy and access.

Further discussion centered around the potential environmental impacts, particularly stormwater management due to the site’s history of flooding issues. Residents like David Kasheski, a local homeowner and HOA president, expressed concern about the site’s stormwater management, given its history as a cow pasture prone to significant water accumulation. Kasheski voiced skepticism over the projected timeline for the development of nearby roads.

In addressing these concerns, a representative from the engineering firm assured that stormwater management practices would adhere to regulations set forth by governing bodies like Swiftmud and FEMA. This includes ensuring that the site’s runoff is managed on-site to prevent flooding, with compensatory storage for any impacts on the floodplain.

The Planning Board’s approval of the zoning and land use changes was unanimous, pushing the proposal forward despite the concerns raised.

In addition to the Thompson Nursery Road and Cunningham Road proposal, the Planning Board also reviewed several other cases. Notably, a proposal by Yakler Properties LLC sought approval for a standalone parking lot in a mixed-use zoning district on Avenue D Southeast. The lot is intended to provide additional parking for a nearby office and received approval from the Planning Board after confirming compliance with local parking space standards.

The board also approved a special use request from First Missionary Baptist Church, WHFL, Inc., for constructing a new fellowship hall and classrooms at its site on Avenue R Northwest. The church plans to replace an existing Sunday school building, and the board’s approval was granted without public opposition.