Planning Commission - 2026-03-04

Approved waiver to allow a newly split 1.47-acre lot to access via an easement exceeding quarter mile in length within RL-1 future land use district. The easement serves fewer than four lots and exceeds the 25-foot minimum width requirement. Property owner Jim Hatch plans to build a single-family guest home called 'Sabbath House' for ALS patients and caregivers. Vote was unanimous.

Approved small scale comprehensive plan amendment changing 12.5 acres from Development of Regional Impact (DRI) to Institutional and Neighborhood Activity Center (NAC) at the intersection of Marigold Avenue (Poinciana Parkway) and Hemlock Avenue. Toho Water Authority seeks to expand water treatment plant with additional well and possible relocation of existing well. NAC portion will allow future non-residential development. Level four review proceeding to Board of County Commissioners on 04/21/2026.

Approved small scale comprehensive plan amendment changing 1.32 acres from Leisure Recreation to Linear Commercial Corridor on US Highway 17-92, south of Old Haines City Lake Alfred Road. Site is former motel constructed in 1940 with 250 feet of highway frontage. Applicant TDW Land Planning indicated potential self-storage use. Property is infill between existing LCC designations on both sides. Level four review proceeding to Board of County Commissioners.

Continued to April 1 meeting for further research. Amendment would establish regulations for Main Street Corridor Overlay in Juanita allowing commercial uses in redevelopment district with reduced front setbacks and potential variance to reduce 50-foot compatibility zone to 25 feet. Commissioner Jackson raised concerns that 25-foot reduction could affect homeowners' ability to secure property insurance, as many carriers require minimum 30-foot separation from commercial structures.

Approved LDCT 2025-28 adding definitions and standards for flex space and retail plazas to Land Development Code. Amendment standardizes landscaping requirements and requires parking assessment for multi-use structures. In Business Park Center districts, commercial uses limited to 15% of square footage or one suite. Intended to improve customer service by consolidating standards and clarifying review process for structures that could be classified as warehousing or office.

Approved LDCT 2025-29 introducing storage yard as new use in industrial districts only. Standards include 100-foot setback with Type C buffer and fencing from residential properties, 25-foot setback from roadways, Type 1 driveway with 50-foot radius, and 80-foot gate setback from right-of-way. For finished goods only (not salvage), bulk materials must be in containers.

Approved LDCT 2025-30 implementing state legislation allowing final plat approval administratively by Land Development Director rather than County Commission Chairman. Includes 7-day review period requirement. Vacating of easements or dedications must be done prior to administrative signature. Does not change acceptance of dedications which occurs through separate surety and acceptance process.

LDCU 2025-25 continued indefinitely without applicant contact. Originally advertised for January, continued twice. Staff has not heard from applicant. Will require re-advertisement. Decision required by approximately June if no contact.