Planning Board Minutes
OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE FORT PIERCE CITY PLANNING BOARD HELD ON MONDAY, MAY 9, 2022, IN FORT PIERCE CITY HALL, COMMISSION CHAMBERS, 100 NORTH US HIGHWAY 1, FORT PIERCE, FLORIDA.
1.
CALL TO ORDER
2.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3.
ROLL CALL
- Present:
- Marcia Baker; Harold Albury; Bob Burdge; Nichelle Clemons; Michael Broderick, Vice-Chair; Alexander Edwards; Frank Creyaufmiller, Chairman
- Staff Present:
-
- Vennis Gilmore, Senior Planner
- Alicia Rosenthal, Planning and Development Organizer
4.
CONSIDERATION OF ABSENCES
All members were in attendance.
All members were in attendance.
5.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a.
Minutes from the April 11, 2022 meeting
Motion was made by Bob Burdge, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to approve the minutes from the April 11, 2022 meeting.
- AYE:
- Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller
Passed
6.
HEARING OF THE LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY
a.
Future Land Use Map Amendment (1 of 2) - The Preserve at Savannah Lakes - The East side of S. US Highway 1 at the intersection of Dickson Drive lying North of the existing Gator Trace Planned Development
Chairman Creyaufmiller recused himself and handed the gavel to Vice-Chair Broderick.
Items 6a and 6b were presented together by Mr. Gilmore and the applicant presented Items 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b together in one PowerPoint presentation.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting review and approval of two (2) Future Land Use Map Amendments from GC, General Commercial to RM, Medium Density Residential for three parcels of land. Mr. Gilmore stated a Future Land Use change is needed on the two different parcels to carry out the Dickson Street entrance into the development.
Dennis Murphy, Applicant Representative from Culpepper and Terpening, showed a detailed presentation for the entire Savannah Lakes project. He stated the project will encompass 130 acres from the original tract and two additional commercial properties. The neighboring properties have mixed zoning designations in the city and St. Lucie County. Mr. Murphy noted they are currently obtaining approval from the city for the Community Development District (CDD). Mr. Murphy explained that the CDD assures improvements and facilities will be maintained. Mr. Murphy said the original tract from 15 years ago was called the Preserve at Gator Trace and was for 800 units. Mr. Murphy stated the Kolter project will consist of 650 units with a recreation loop throughout the community, and they will be keeping the environmental sensitive land within the development.
Mr. Murphy noted that the initial draining discharge will go into the large wetland in the middle of the project. A berm will be constructed, in the St. Lucie County right-of-way, along the south of the property line to redirect extra water flow from going to the Gator Trace development. Mr. Murphy stated that FPUA wants the development to connect to the sewer lines at Gator Trace, which will provide better water flow and in turn better water quality.
Mr. Murphy said there will be emergency access to the development from South Market and US Highway 1 and secondary emergency access for residents if needed.
Mr. Murphy stated the development will contain entry market rate 2-story townhomes and villa units.
Chairman Creyaufmiller recused himself and handed the gavel to Vice-Chair Broderick.
Items 6a and 6b were presented together by Mr. Gilmore and the applicant presented Items 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b together in one PowerPoint presentation.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting review and approval of two (2) Future Land Use Map Amendments from GC, General Commercial to RM, Medium Density Residential for three parcels of land. Mr. Gilmore stated a Future Land Use change is needed on the two different parcels to carry out the Dickson Street entrance into the development.
Dennis Murphy, Applicant Representative from Culpepper and Terpening, showed a detailed presentation for the entire Savannah Lakes project. He stated the project will encompass 130 acres from the original tract and two additional commercial properties. The neighboring properties have mixed zoning designations in the city and St. Lucie County. Mr. Murphy noted they are currently obtaining approval from the city for the Community Development District (CDD). Mr. Murphy explained that the CDD assures improvements and facilities will be maintained. Mr. Murphy said the original tract from 15 years ago was called the Preserve at Gator Trace and was for 800 units. Mr. Murphy stated the Kolter project will consist of 650 units with a recreation loop throughout the community, and they will be keeping the environmental sensitive land within the development.
Mr. Murphy noted that the initial draining discharge will go into the large wetland in the middle of the project. A berm will be constructed, in the St. Lucie County right-of-way, along the south of the property line to redirect extra water flow from going to the Gator Trace development. Mr. Murphy stated that FPUA wants the development to connect to the sewer lines at Gator Trace, which will provide better water flow and in turn better water quality.
Mr. Murphy said there will be emergency access to the development from South Market and US Highway 1 and secondary emergency access for residents if needed.
Mr. Murphy stated the development will contain entry market rate 2-story townhomes and villa units.
Motion was made by Marcia Baker, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Commission.
- AYE:
- Nichelle Clemons, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick
- Other:
- Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller (ABSTAIN)
Passed
b.
Future Land Use Map Amendment (2 of 2) - The Preserve at Savannah Lakes - The East side of S. US Highway 1 at the intersection of Dickson Drive lying North of the existing Gator Trace Planned Development
This item was presented with 6a.
This item was presented with 6a.
Motion was made by Marcia Baker, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Commission.
- AYE:
- Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick
- Other:
- Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller (ABSTAIN)
Passed
7.
NEW BUSINESS
a.
Zoning Atlas Map Amendment - The Preserve at Savannah Lakes - The East side of S. US Highway 1 at the intersection of Dickson Drive lying North of the existing Gator Trace Planned Development
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Zoning Atlas Map Amendment (Rezoning) from C-3, General Commercial Zone and PD, Planned Development (for four parcels) to PD, Planned Development. The applicant is requesting all applications so that they may develop a residential subdivision known as The Preserve at Savanna Lakes, that will have 650 platted lots consisting of single-family homes, villas, and townhomes. The subject site was previously approved as a Planned Development by the name The Preserve at Gator Trace in 2006 but has since expired.
Ms. Baker asked Mr. Murphy if there are any problems with the Community Development District (CDD) regarding the current state legislation. Mr. Burdge asked if there is any tax relief from the CDD, if the trail inside the development is specific to the residences and how mail will be received. Mr. Murphy stated the mailboxes will be at a covered central location within the development. Mr. Broderick addressed concerns with the placement and dimensions of the berm. Mr. Murphy explained they are working with St. Lucie County on putting an agreement in place for the berm but no permits have been signed off yet. Mr. Broderick stated he prefers the berm placement be located on the northern side of the St. Lucie County right-of-way, so landscape can be added. Mr. Broderick asked who will be maintaining the easement and if the developer has an easement agreement with Gator Trace. Mr. Murphy said they are working on the exhibits. Mr. Broderick inquired on how the emergency entrance is being controlled and Mr. Murphy stated by either a lock box or by the master association if something occurs inside the community. Mr. Burdge asked if the HOA could turn the development into a gated community and Mr. Murphy said there is no room to meet the standard requirements for a gate location. Mr. Edwards asked if there will be a buffer to the residences from the preserve. Mr. Burdge inquired about the expected population of the development.
Joanne Driscoll and Peggy Linares, residents, expressed concerns with the berm.
David Earle, Attorney Representative for Gator Trace Master Association, stated the key concern is the drainage and Gator Trace does not want the berm on their property, and it would be simpler if the berm was on the applicant's property. Mr. Earle said the berm documents being produced need to be reviewed for maintenance responsibility, function and landscape, and they will have to look at the requirements of the Master Association to negotiate the documents. He highlighted that the berm will need to be aesthetically pleasing, and the master drainage plan is not shown.
Ed Bates, resident, expressed concerns with flooding and the berm.
Nelson Northern, resident, asked if documents from the meeting would be available to the public.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Zoning Atlas Map Amendment (Rezoning) from C-3, General Commercial Zone and PD, Planned Development (for four parcels) to PD, Planned Development. The applicant is requesting all applications so that they may develop a residential subdivision known as The Preserve at Savanna Lakes, that will have 650 platted lots consisting of single-family homes, villas, and townhomes. The subject site was previously approved as a Planned Development by the name The Preserve at Gator Trace in 2006 but has since expired.
Ms. Baker asked Mr. Murphy if there are any problems with the Community Development District (CDD) regarding the current state legislation. Mr. Burdge asked if there is any tax relief from the CDD, if the trail inside the development is specific to the residences and how mail will be received. Mr. Murphy stated the mailboxes will be at a covered central location within the development. Mr. Broderick addressed concerns with the placement and dimensions of the berm. Mr. Murphy explained they are working with St. Lucie County on putting an agreement in place for the berm but no permits have been signed off yet. Mr. Broderick stated he prefers the berm placement be located on the northern side of the St. Lucie County right-of-way, so landscape can be added. Mr. Broderick asked who will be maintaining the easement and if the developer has an easement agreement with Gator Trace. Mr. Murphy said they are working on the exhibits. Mr. Broderick inquired on how the emergency entrance is being controlled and Mr. Murphy stated by either a lock box or by the master association if something occurs inside the community. Mr. Burdge asked if the HOA could turn the development into a gated community and Mr. Murphy said there is no room to meet the standard requirements for a gate location. Mr. Edwards asked if there will be a buffer to the residences from the preserve. Mr. Burdge inquired about the expected population of the development.
Joanne Driscoll and Peggy Linares, residents, expressed concerns with the berm.
David Earle, Attorney Representative for Gator Trace Master Association, stated the key concern is the drainage and Gator Trace does not want the berm on their property, and it would be simpler if the berm was on the applicant's property. Mr. Earle said the berm documents being produced need to be reviewed for maintenance responsibility, function and landscape, and they will have to look at the requirements of the Master Association to negotiate the documents. He highlighted that the berm will need to be aesthetically pleasing, and the master drainage plan is not shown.
Ed Bates, resident, expressed concerns with flooding and the berm.
Nelson Northern, resident, asked if documents from the meeting would be available to the public.
Motion was made by Nichelle Clemons, and seconded by Marcia Baker to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Commission with the following conditions:
- The berm will be maintained by the property owner.
- The berm will be located in the northern portion of the St. Lucie County easement or on the applicant's property.
- Any change to the location of the berm will need to be reviewed by the Planning Board.
- AYE:
- Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick
- Other:
- Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller (ABSTAIN)
Passed
b.
Preliminary Plat - The Preserve at Savannah Lakes - The East side of S. US Highway 1 at the intersection of Dickson Drive lying North of the existing Gator Trace Planned Development
Mr. Gilmore stated the applicant is requesting review and approval of a Preliminary Plat for approximately 132.7 acres of land that will subdivide into 650 lots.
Dennis Murphy, Applicant Representative from Culpepper and Terpening stated the development will be fee simple ownership and the final plats will be submitted in phases.
Mr. Broderick suggested that language regarding the berm conditions be built into the plat approval. Mr. Earle, Gator Trace Master Association Attorney, agreed with Mr. Broderick.
Mr. Gilmore stated the applicant is requesting review and approval of a Preliminary Plat for approximately 132.7 acres of land that will subdivide into 650 lots.
Dennis Murphy, Applicant Representative from Culpepper and Terpening stated the development will be fee simple ownership and the final plats will be submitted in phases.
Mr. Broderick suggested that language regarding the berm conditions be built into the plat approval. Mr. Earle, Gator Trace Master Association Attorney, agreed with Mr. Broderick.
Motion was made by Marcia Baker, and seconded by Alexander Edwards to forward a recommendation of approval to the City Commission with the following conditions:
- Prior to the submittal of the Final Plat, address all the City of Fort Pierce Engineering Comments on the Plat document.
- The berm will be maintained by the property owner.
- The berm will be located in the northern portion of the St. Lucie County easement or on the applicant's property.
- Any change to the location of the berm will need to be reviewed by the Planning Board.
- AYE:
- Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Alexander Edwards, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick
- Other:
- Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller (ABSTAIN)
Passed
c.
Conditional Use - Surrounded by Love Eternally Preschool - 2806 S. US Highway 1
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the application. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Conditional Use with No New Construction to allow a daycare facility. The applicant is seeking to operate the preschool in an existing 2,591 square foot structure on a property that is approximately 7.26 acres. The property has a Future Land Use designation of General Commercial with a compatible zoning classification of General Commercial (C-3). The proposed facility is approximately 2,591 square-feet that will consist of seven (7) classrooms with all meals being prepared onsite. The facility will include an outside fenced playground area. The proposed facility will be open from 6:30 am to 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday, accommodating approximately 74 kids on average between the ages of six (6) weeks to five (5) years old. Mr. Gilmore noted the Synergy School, located in the same plaza, will be providing meals to the preschool.
Chairman Creyaufmiller noted the probation office next to the proposed preschool is of no concern because there will be no visitors.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the application. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Conditional Use with No New Construction to allow a daycare facility. The applicant is seeking to operate the preschool in an existing 2,591 square foot structure on a property that is approximately 7.26 acres. The property has a Future Land Use designation of General Commercial with a compatible zoning classification of General Commercial (C-3). The proposed facility is approximately 2,591 square-feet that will consist of seven (7) classrooms with all meals being prepared onsite. The facility will include an outside fenced playground area. The proposed facility will be open from 6:30 am to 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday, accommodating approximately 74 kids on average between the ages of six (6) weeks to five (5) years old. Mr. Gilmore noted the Synergy School, located in the same plaza, will be providing meals to the preschool.
Chairman Creyaufmiller noted the probation office next to the proposed preschool is of no concern because there will be no visitors.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Motion was made by Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to forward a recommendation of approval.
- AYE:
- Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller
Passed
d.
Conditional Use with New Construction - Blackman Residence - 1627 Thumb Point Drive
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the application. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Conditional Use to construct a single-family home that will be approximately 33 feet and 11-5/8 inches in height from the FEMA Based Flood Elevation. The applicant is requesting an additional approximate six (6) feet in height to meet their desired interior design without increasing the footprint on the lot. The subject property has a Future Land Use designation of Low Density Residential (RL) with a compatible zoning district classification of Single-Family Low Density Residential Zone (R-1). The proposed new residence will include three (3) bedrooms, three (3) full baths, two (2) half baths, office and playroom on the upper-primary level (3690 square feet), and two (2) garages, a workshop and storage area on the first level (3737 square feet).
Huey Blackman, owner, explained the height increase is needed because there is no living area on the 1st level of the home due to possible flooding.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the application. The applicant is requesting the review and approval of a Conditional Use to construct a single-family home that will be approximately 33 feet and 11-5/8 inches in height from the FEMA Based Flood Elevation. The applicant is requesting an additional approximate six (6) feet in height to meet their desired interior design without increasing the footprint on the lot. The subject property has a Future Land Use designation of Low Density Residential (RL) with a compatible zoning district classification of Single-Family Low Density Residential Zone (R-1). The proposed new residence will include three (3) bedrooms, three (3) full baths, two (2) half baths, office and playroom on the upper-primary level (3690 square feet), and two (2) garages, a workshop and storage area on the first level (3737 square feet).
Huey Blackman, owner, explained the height increase is needed because there is no living area on the 1st level of the home due to possible flooding.
Motion was made by Marcia Baker, and seconded by Bob Burdge to forward a recommendation of approval.
- AYE:
- Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller
Passed
e.
Conditional Use and Site Plan (Development Review and Design Review) - U-Haul Storage - 3602 S. US Highway 1
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting the review and approval for a Conditional Use - Site Plan (Development Review and Design Review) to construct a four (4)-story, approximately 33,888 square foot storage building with associated site improvements. The facility will be secured by a controlled access security system, with an office on site. The subject parcels total approximately 5.51 acres +/-.
The proposed facility will be used for the U-Haul U-Box Container Program. Customers can pick up their U-Box from a U-Haul location or have the U-Box delivered to their doorstep where it can be filled with household items at their leisure. When the U-Box is packed and ready, customers can return the U-Box to a location or have it picked up and delivered to any U-Haul self-storage locations throughout the United States and Canada. Customers that have access codes can access their storage units from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Sunday. The design for the building integrates various architectural elements.
Ms. Baker asked if outside storage was allowed and if there were similar facilities locally. Mr. Gilmore stated no outside storage is allowed.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project. The applicant is requesting the review and approval for a Conditional Use - Site Plan (Development Review and Design Review) to construct a four (4)-story, approximately 33,888 square foot storage building with associated site improvements. The facility will be secured by a controlled access security system, with an office on site. The subject parcels total approximately 5.51 acres +/-.
The proposed facility will be used for the U-Haul U-Box Container Program. Customers can pick up their U-Box from a U-Haul location or have the U-Box delivered to their doorstep where it can be filled with household items at their leisure. When the U-Box is packed and ready, customers can return the U-Box to a location or have it picked up and delivered to any U-Haul self-storage locations throughout the United States and Canada. Customers that have access codes can access their storage units from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Sunday. The design for the building integrates various architectural elements.
Ms. Baker asked if outside storage was allowed and if there were similar facilities locally. Mr. Gilmore stated no outside storage is allowed.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Motion was made by Marcia Baker, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to approve the requested applications with the following conditions:
- A certified letter of completion by a landscape architect, cost estimate, and landscape bond pursuant to City Code 123-6 shall be required before the Final Certificate of Occupancy is approved for the site.
- Prior to the issuance of a site work permit, all properties that make up this development will need to be combined with a parcel combination with the St. Lucie County Property Appraiser's Office and a unity of title with the St. Lucie County Clerk of Courts
- AYE:
- Nichelle Clemons, Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller
Passed
f.
Site Plan (Development and Design Review) - Kings Highway Commerce Park Phase II - SE corner of Kings Highway and White Road approximately ½ mile north of Okeechobee Road (9 Parcels)
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project and stated that Phase I has been approved along with an overall landscape plan for all the phases. The property owner and applicant are seeking Site Plan (Development Review and Design Review) approval to construct one 750,500 square foot building with 710,500 of warehouse distribution space and 40,000 square feet of office space with associated site improvements. Phase 2 of the project will provide for 623 parking spaces along with 13 handicap accessible spaces. The proposed building elevation is articulated with varying roof heights and accents and the elevations incorporate the creation of living walls or green walls.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Mr. Gilmore gave an overview of the project and stated that Phase I has been approved along with an overall landscape plan for all the phases. The property owner and applicant are seeking Site Plan (Development Review and Design Review) approval to construct one 750,500 square foot building with 710,500 of warehouse distribution space and 40,000 square feet of office space with associated site improvements. Phase 2 of the project will provide for 623 parking spaces along with 13 handicap accessible spaces. The proposed building elevation is articulated with varying roof heights and accents and the elevations incorporate the creation of living walls or green walls.
No one spoke for or against the application.
Motion was made by Bob Burdge, and seconded by Nichelle Clemons to approve the project with the following Conditions:
- A Landscape Bond for all site landscaping shall be provided pursuant to City Code 123-6 prior the issuance of the first Final Certificate of Occupancy for the site.
- Prior to the issuance of a site work permit, all properties contained within the subject development will need to be combined through a parcel combination with the St. Lucie County Property Appraiser’s Office and a Unity of Title with the St. Lucie County Clerk of Courts.
- AYE:
- Vice-Chair Michael Broderick, Alexander Edwards, Marcia Baker, Harold Albury, Bob Burdge, Nichelle Clemons, Chairman Frank Creyaufmiller
Passed
8.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
There were no comments from the public.
There were no comments from the public.
9.
BOARD COMMENTS
Chairman Creyaufmiller asked Mr. Gilmore if a new Planning director has been hired. Chairman Creyaufmiller said he would like to hear comments and participation form more Board members, and he suggested Board members error on the side of caution if they ever need to recuse themselves from an agenda item.
Chairman Creyaufmiller asked Mr. Gilmore if a new Planning director has been hired. Chairman Creyaufmiller said he would like to hear comments and participation form more Board members, and he suggested Board members error on the side of caution if they ever need to recuse themselves from an agenda item.
10.
ADJOURNMENT