Monroe County

This document outlines a proposed ordinance to amend Policies 1302.1.4 and 1302.1.5 of the Monroe County 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The amendment's primary objective is to streamline the processing timeline for certain land development applications by requiring community meetings to be held prior to consideration by the Development Review Committee, rather than a defined time period before public hearings. It also clarifies that these meetings can be conducted both in-person and through electronic means, aiming to enhance efficiency and public participation in the planning and development review process.

The main discussion involved a proposed ordinance by the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners to amend the Monroe County 2030 Comprehensive Plan and the Big Pine Key Livable CommuniKeys Plan. Specifically, the amendment sought to include property located at 258 Cunningham Lane, Big Pine Key, into the list of institutional uses within the CommuniKeys Plan. Staff recommended approval for this request concerning the Grimal Grove property, noting its existing institutional uses and zoning context.

The Development Review Committee meeting agenda included discussions and potential ordinances related to land use and housing initiatives. Key topics involved an ordinance amending the Land Development Code to establish procedures for reviewing and approving Certified Recovery Residences pursuant to Florida Statutes. Another significant item addressed adopting amendments to the Monroe County 2030 Comprehensive Plan and the Land Development Code to modify requirements concerning the 300 Keys Affordable Workforce Housing Initiative early evacuation unit building permit allocations, specifically removing the 1-for-1 takings and Bert Harris Act liability reduction exchange requirement.

The meeting included the election of a new Chairperson and Vice Chairperson, serving until September 30, 2024. Updates were provided on the FY 2024 budget and the Four Penny Revenue Report. The committee reviewed the monthly report from NewmanPR and the advertising recap, along with the D360 Report, Key Data Vacation Rental Report, Visitor Information Services Report, and Two Oceans Digital Report, including District Google Analytics. There was discussion and action regarding an amendment to the agreement with Coral Restoration Foundation, Inc. for the CRF -- Coral Restoration Lower Keys 2024 Project, and an update on the December 19, 2023 TDC Meeting.

The committee discussed transit-oriented development with Richard Clark, focusing on affordable housing accessibility and funding mechanisms. They explored the potential of public transportation improvements, including increased bus availability and on-demand services. Container housing updates were provided, and the committee considered facilitating affordable housing through property owner incentives, fee waivers, and ROGO exemptions. Parking standards for affordable housing and dormitory-style projects were also discussed.