Simpson recommends Islandside project denial

Planning, Zoning and Building Director Monica Simpson has again recommended denial of the Longboat Key Club and Resort’s revised Islandside renovation-and-expansion project.

Simpson submitted her revised staff report to the Islandside outline development application Friday evening.

Wrote Simpson: “At this time, based on staff’s review of the amended Outline Development Plan amendment application, staff recommends denial of the request. However, it should be made abundantly clear that staff is not opposed to the general mix of land uses that are proposed for the redevelopment.
Rather, it is the magnitude of the land uses and the manner in which the interrelationship of the land uses is designed. It is staff’s opinion that a hotel/meeting-center facility of a reasonable size is an appropriate land use for the Gulf Planned Development.

Additionally, the spa/fitness center and golf clubhouse are also compatible land uses. Lastly, a mixture of residential units within the redevelopment is consistent with the intent of the GPD zoning district.”

Simpson, who has recommended denial of the project three times, said her staff cannot recommend approval of the project due to the number and magnitude of the departures requested, inconsistency with the town’s Comprehensive Plan and general overall concerns.

Wrote Simpson: “Although staff is recommending denial of the amended ODP Amendment application as submitted, redevelopment of the North and South Parcels with the proposed mix of land uses is not objectionable. In staff’s opinion, the proposed redevelopment too drastically departs from the intent and criteria of the applicable sections of the code.”

Simpson notes, however, that the commission has the right to approve the application as submitted.

The Town Commission will resume the Islandside hearing at 9 a.m. Monday, June 7 and may appoint a new commissioner to replace former Commissioner Gene Jaleski before that hearing begins.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].