Commission addresses law of the land

Judge Charles E. Roberts’ ruling that granted a writ of certiorari in the challenge of the commission’s approval of the proposed $400 million Longboat Key Club and Resort Islandside redevelopment plan prompted a Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan discussion Jan. 19. But Town Attorney David Persson told the commission at its regular workshop that a review was long overdue.

Town Manager David Bullock recommended that the town take a two-step process beginning with a review of issues surrounding planed-use developments (PUDs) while taking on a more holistic review of the town’s Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan.

Bullock said that the town could put out a request for proposals and hire a land-use planning company to review regulations. But he also told the commission that non-profit agencies, such as the Urban Land Institute, could conduct such a review.

Thomas Eitler, ULI vice president of advisory services, made a presentation to the commission by phone at Thursday’s workshop.

Eitler told the commission that the ULI could, in two-and-a-half to three months, organize a five-day panel of various professionals, including developers, bankers, brokers, market analysts, architects, planners and public officials who would provide a report at a total cost of $125,000.

But Commissioner Phill Younger said at the workshop that he was concerned about what he saw was a lack of focus on the Zoning Code.

“We may come away with a lot of great suggestions but still have to resolve the issues that are facing us,” he said.

But Commissioner Pat Zunz said that the ULI could provide the town with the information it needs before it changes its codes.

“It seems like it’s a lengthy process, but I think we need to take that step first,” she said.

Commissioner Lynn Larson had concerns about the $125,000 cost and wondered if other groups could also help the town address its issues.

Commissioners then debated where they wanted to go with code changes.

The commission reached consensus to move ahead with a review of PUD issues. The commission will review options for a long-term review at a future meeting.