HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995 08 02 Regular
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708.2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
:MEMORANDUM
TO:
Planning and zoning Board/LPA
Qf~
John Ketteringham, General Services Directorlj'
THRU:
FROM:
Thomas Grimms, AICP community Development coordinat~
August 1, 1995
if
DATE:
RE: Map of Proposed Deletion of Collector Roads from
Comprehensive Plan
Please find attached a map with roads marked that are proposed to
be deleted as part of the collector road network in the City's
_ Comprehensive Plan Traffic Circulation Element.
Don LeBlanc received a map that did not have correctly marked those
roads to be deleted as part of the collector road network.
Bring this map with you to the regular meeting of the P & Z Board
on Wednesday evening.
If you have any questions or comments, please call me at 327-1800
X 315.
RECEIVED
AUG - 1 1995
e..'..... or \N1....ter Springe
GhNIiRAL SERViCeS
EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS AND
AVOIDANCE OF PARTIALITY
IN QUASI-JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS
BACKGROUND: RECENT JUDICIAL DECISIONS
Whereas the 1985 Amendments to the Lo~al Government Comprehensive
Planning and Land Development Act launched a noisy revolution in
Florida land use law, Florida Courts have begun a quiet revolution.
The quiet revolution involves the way local governments make
decisions regarding the use of individual parcels of land.
The difference between legislative and quasi-judicial decision
making is at the heart of the quiet revolution. Two recent cases
before the Florida 3rd and 5th District Court of Appeals have the
potential for greatly changing land use decision-making by local
governments.
I. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LEGISLATIVE AND QUASI-JUDICIAL:
Whether a local government proceeding, such as a rezoning of
land, is legislative or quasi-judicial will depend on its
nature:
A. LEGISLATIVE ACTS:
1. The Supreme Court opinion states enactments of
zoning codes will continue to be "legislative" in
nature.
2. A rezoning is legislative in nature when it affects
"a large portion of the pUblic".
3. Legislative acts then are:
a. Future oriented.
b. Change existing condi tions by making a new
rule to be applied thereafter.
c. Applies generally, not to specific parties,
i.e. to large areas of the community.
4. The ramifications of legislative acts are:
c.
Due process is greatly diminished.
The general public should be heard, not just
specific parties, and standing issues have no
relevance.
Lobby ing ( a. k. a. ex parte contacts) is
permitted and even expected.
Notice must go to the public, but not always
to specific parties.
The standard of review is the highly
deferential "fairly debatable" rule.
"d_
a.
b.
d.
e.
B. QUASI-JUDICIAL ACTS:
1. Quasi-judicial acts are:
a. Oriented to past events.
b. Investigates, declares, applies or enforces
rules.
c. Applies and enforces rules based on existing
facts.
2. Rezoning actions will be quasi-judicial in nature
if:
a. They impact only a limited number of persons
or property owners or to a specific site, e.g.
small scale rezonings.
b. They impact on identitiable parties and
interests. .
c. The decision is contingent on facts arrived at
from distinct alternatives presented at the
hearing.
d. The decision can be functionally viewed as
"policy application" rather than "policy
setting".
3. The ramifications of quasi-judicial acts are:
a. Due process requirements are heightened.
b. Particular parties, especially affected
landowners and residents, are entitled to
notice.
c. Ex-parte communications (a.k.a. lObbying) are
prohibited.
d. Discovery and evidentiary rules may apply, at
least in part.
e. Testimony may need to be under oath; witnesses
may be subject to cross examination.
f. The decision must be based on evidence.
g. The standard of review is the less deferential
"substantial competent evidence" rule.
C. REZONINGS AS QUASI-JUDICIAL:
Stated more fully, to the extent a particular rezoning is
quasi-judicial, the jUdicial standard of review is the
competent substantial evidence rule. Further, the
Supreme Court opinion states, consideration of a rezoning
affecting a small area of the community (i.e. site
specific rezoning) will now be "quasi-judicial" in
nature. Thus, a site specific rezoning is now handled in
much the same manner as a conditional use. Local
governments no longer have substantial discretion to say
"no" to a requested zoning.
Pursuant to the new' Snyder' approach, the initial burden
is upon the landowner to demonstrate that the request for
rezoning complies with the procedural requirements of the
zoning code, and that the use sought is consistent with
the Comprehensive Plan. Upon such a showing, the local
government has the following options:
~. Approve the rezoning ~equest; or
2. Show that the request is not consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan and deny the request; or
3. Approve a less intense or less dense zoning
designation. If the local government opts for this
alternative, the local government must show by
substantial, competent evidence that the less
intense or less dense zoning designation is
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and is not
arbitrary and capricious. '
Stated another way, the Florida Supreme Court held that:
~. The Growth Management Act (Ch. 85-88, Laws of
Florida; a.k.a. Chap 163 Part II Florida Statutes,
Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land
Development Regulation Act) was intended to ensure
orderly development, not to preclude it.
2. Comprehensive planning contemplates "gradual and
ordered growth, and the local government can refuse
to approve the maximum density otherwise allowable
under the plan, as long as some development
consistent with the plan is allowed."
3. The property owner is not presumptively entitled to
a land use once he/she proves it to be consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan.
4. Once the property owner proves the requested
rezoning to be consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan, the burden shifts to the government, but only
to prove that the existing zoning "accomplishes a
legitimate public purpose."
a. Should the local government deny a rezoning:
i.
The legitimate purpose is proven
showing that the rezoning denial was
arbitrary, discriminatory
unreasonable.
by
not
or
Further:
ii. The standard of review is the "competent
substantial evidence" rule, not the
"clear and convincing evidence" rule.
iii. The government is not required to make
findings of fact.
II. TYPES OF LAND DEVELOPMENT ORDERS/CHANGES REGARDED AS QUASI-
JUDICIAL IN NATURE:
A. Variances.
B. site Plans.
C. Conditional Use Permits.
D. Plat Approvals.
E. Comprehensive Plan amendments (that are small in area or
in affecting numbers of people)
III. SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS:
POWERS OF THE QUASI-JUDICIAL BOARD:
A. Authority of a Board.
The board's authority is limited to that authority
delegated to it in the Zoning Ordinance or the Land
Development Regulations. [See 82 Am.Jur.2d Zoning and
Planninq 283 #23 (1976). "The board does not have
untrammeled discretion to determine whether to issue a
permit, yet the board does have a certain degree of
discretion and does not perform a purely ministerial
junction." Id. at nn. 24 and 26]
B. Guidelines of a Board of Adjustment.
A Board of Adjustment cannot make up new and "creative"
standards guiding its discretion, because "Boards of
Adjustment have no power to legislate." Mavflower
Property. Inc. vs. city of Fort Lauderdale, 137 So.2d 849
(Fla. 2s DCA 1962). To do so would be nothing short of
bureaucratic osmosis. Further, the board has no
authority to determine the validity of a zoning
Ordinance. Vestal-Penn Enterprise vs. Cohen, 397
N.Y.S.2d 466 (App. Div. 1977).
C. Focus of the Board.
A board has authority only to determine whether to issue
a permit based on the conditions or standards for
issuance with the Comprehensive Plan. Town of
Indialantic vs. Nance, 400 So.2d 37, 39 (Fla. 5th DCA
1981), approved, 419 So.2d 1041 (Fla. 1982), discusses
the difference between concepts such as substantial,
competent evidence, and satisfaction of a standard or
condition, e.g. - unnecessary hardship.
IV. JENNINGS VS. DADE COUNTY
PROCEEDINGS:
ITS EFFECT ON QUASI-JUDICIAL
One particular aspect of quasi -j udicial proceedings, the issue
of ex-parte contacts, or "lobbying" was the subj ect of a
widely discussed case, Jenninqs vs. Dade County, 589 So. 2d
1337 (Fla. 3d DCA 1991) rev. den., 598 So. 2d 75 (Fla. 1992),
which opinion was issued just 5 days before the Fifth District
Court of Appeals issued its "Sny.der' opinion.
-'-
In Jennings vs. Dade County, a complaint was filed with the
court claiming that during a a zoning variance application
(conditional use, a.k.a. special exception), which courts have
held to be a quasi-judicial administrative action, the
landowner's representaive had "lobbied" the Dade County
Commission outside (ex parte) the public hearing. The Court
indicated such ex parte communication is to be avoided where
they are identifiable but went on to say:
"We recognize the reality that cOmInissioners are
elected officials in which capacity they may
unavoidably be the recipients of unsolicited
ex parte communications regarding quasi-judicial
matters they are to decide. The occurence of such
a communication in a quasi-judicial proceeding does
not mad ate automatic reversal. Nevertheless... upon
the aggrieved party's proof that ex parte contact
occurred, its effect is presumed to be prejudicial
unless the defendent proves the contrary by
competent evidence."
A. 'Jennings' held that:
1. An ex-parte contact with a quasi-judicial officer
is presumed to be prejudicial, and
2. Upon proof of it, the aggrieved party is entitled
to a new hearing unless the defendant proves the
contact was in fact not prejudicial.
B. 'Jennings' and other cases suggest that a quasi-judicial
zoning proceeding will meet due process requirements if:
1. Parties are provided notice;
2. Parties are provided the opportunity to be heard;
3. Parties are able to present evidence;
4. Parties are abe to cross examine "witnessesll; and
5. Parties are informed of all the facts upon which
the quasi-judicial body acts.
[Id at 1341; Coral Reef Nurseries, Inc. vs. Babcock Co.,
410 So. 2d 648, 652 (Fla. 3d DCA 1982)
V. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, BREVARD COUNTY VS. SNYDER - ITS
EFFECT ON QUASI-JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS:
A. The standards to be applied to zoning hearings are those
which apply to quasi-judicial hearings of administrative
bodies. The requirements of due process are applicable
to all procedural questions.
B. "After Snyder, the courts have announced their intent to
apply "strict scrutinyll to the actions and records of the
local governmental body, and it is a safe prediciton that
all of the standards ~f due process, including
impartiality, will be incorporated into that scrutiny."
[March 24, 1994 written statement to 6th Annual Advanced
Growth Management Short Course sponsored by the Florida
Chamber of Commerce]
VI. SNYDER/JENNINGS COMBINED AS TAG TEAM:
Because "Snyder' declares that, at least, small rezonings are
quasi-judicial, and 'Jennings' says that ex-parte contacts are
"presumed prejudicialll, the following al?plies:
A. The governing body or advisory boards will be prohibited
from obtaining community input by way of ex-parte
communications from its citizens.
B. 'Jennings' states that "Ex-parte communications are
inherently improper and are anathema to quasi-judicial
proceedings. Quasi-judicial officers should avoid all
such contacts where they are identifiable.
VII. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GOVERNING BODY, OTHER BOARDS, STAFF IN
QUASI-JUDICIAL MATTERS:
A. DECISION MAKERS
1. Application of Government in the Sunshine
requirements apply to quasi-judicial bodies.
2. Ex-parte communications between a party and a
decision maker is to be avoided, because it could
be presumed prejudicial.
3. Any written correspondence received should be
acknowledged during the public hearings on such
matters and made a part of the public record.
Additionally, it should be made available to anyone
interested in reviewing the correspondence. For
example, if a board member receives an oral or
written ex-parte communication, it is not presumed
prejudicial; provided that the date and substance
of the communication and with whom it occurred is
divulged on the record at the beginning of a public
hearing.
David A. Theriaque, attorney with Apgar, Pelham,
Pfeiffer & Theriaque law firm, notes that liThe
rationale that applies to written communications
between a commissioner and staff applies to letters
written to a commissioner regarding a matter
pending before the Commission. While such
communications are clearly ex parte, if the
procedures set forth regarding staff communications
are followed, a party would be hard-pressed to
prove prejudice. By providing interested parties
with copies of the letters before the hearing and
introducing the letters into evidence at the
beginning of the hearing, all parties will have the
opportunity to address the information contained in
those letters. Again, the fundamental due process
issue is whether the parties have been informed of
all the facts upon which the commission acts. This
approach satisfies that requirement and still
allows the commissioners to. open and read their
mail without fear of receiving ex parte
communication. .Another issue regarding written
communications to commissioners is whether such
communications can be considered competent
substantial evidence. A strong argument can be
made that only evidence which is provided under
oath and subject to cross-examination can be
considered to be competent substantial evidence. A
written communication fails on both prongs."
[March 24, 1995 written statement to 6th Annual
Advanced Growth Management Short Course sponsored
by the Florida Chamber of Commerce]
4. Telephone calls should be avoided in the same
manner as personal conversations with individuals
as to any quasi-judicial matter.
David A. Theriaque, attorney with Apgar, Pelham,
Pfeiffer & Theriaque law firm, makes the following
observation: "Oral ex parte communications will
inevitably happen. A commissioner should attempt
to halt any oral ex parte communication once he or
she realizes that the speaker is addressing a
matter pending before the commission. After the ex
parte communication occurs, the commissioner should
take steps similar to those associated with a
written ex parte communication. The commissioner
should write a memorandum stating the date, time,
individual involved, and content of the ex parte
communications. That memorandum should then be
placed in the file maintained by staff and made
available for public inspection, and provided to
all interested parties known to be involved in the
matter. Although probably not required, I
recommend that the ex parte communication be
revealed at the onset of the quasi-judicial
hearing. These steps should greatly reduce the
likelihood that a party could prove prejudice from
the ex parte communication. [March 24, 1995
written statement to 6th Annual Advanced Growth
Management Short Course sponsored by the Florida
Chamber of Commerce]
5. Logs indicating merely support or opposition of a
matter should not be maintained by the decision
maker or its staff, nor should the information be
announced during public hearing.
6. If the decision maker or its staff believes there
may be some merit to any relevant information
received by these communications, it is recommended
that the decision maker request the staff, an
appropriate party or witness, address the issue and
either verify, explain or deny the information
during the pUblic hearing.
7. If information from a site visit or other common
historical knowledge known to the decision-maker is
considered in making a decision, that information
must be disclosed at the beginning of the hearing.
(It has been deemed inappropriate for individual
board members to drive by a site to view the lay of
the land regarding a specific case. However, the
full board, at the same time, may visit a site if
the visit is advertised ahead of time and disclosed
at the public hearing.)
David A. Theriaque, attorney with Apgar, Pelham,
Pfeiffer, & Theriaque law firm, takes the following
view II A site visit is not a communication, and,
thus, there are no ex parte concerns. Obviously,
this conclusion is valid only if the commissioner
is unaccompanied during the site visit and does not
discuss the matter with anybody else who happens to
be on the site. I recommend that after the site
visit, the commissioner write a memorandum stating
the date and time that he or she visited the site,
place the memorandum in the file maintained by
staff and made available for public inspection, and
provide the memorandum to all interested parties
known to be involved in the matter. . There is
concern, however, about whether a site visit
violates the requirement that a commissioner base
his or her decision on evidence introduced during
the quasi-judicial hearing. A site visit provides
information outside of the quasi-judicial hearing.
Therefore, a conservative approach would be for
commissioners to not view the site." [March 24,
1995 written statement to 6th Annual Advanced
Growth Management Short Course sponsored by the
Florida Chamber of Commerce)
8. In most cases, staff or some other knowledgeable
person attending the hearing should be asked to
verify any information which may be appropriate to
alleviate any concerns about the competency of the
evidence and to allow appropriate questioning
regarding the matter oy the decision maker.
9. C. Allen Watts, attorney with Cobb, Cole & Bell,
points out that "Ex parte contact during the actual
pendency of a proceeding is only one way in which
bias or prejudice can be suggested. Due process
requires that if there is other evidence that a
member of a body is not impartial, a procedure must
be available to remove that member. Few ordinances
now provide such a procedure.1I .He notes IIAn
impartial decison maker is a ,basic constituent of
minimum due process. (Meqill vs. Board of Reqents,
541 F.2d 1073 (5th Cir. 1976). However, there is
no per se constitutional rule disqualifying
administrative hearing bodies. The record must
support actual partiality of the body or its
individual members, and in the absence of evidence
to the contrary, a reviewing court will assume that
the administrative body acted independently and
properly. (Duke vs. North Texas State University,
469 F. 2d 829 (5th cir.1972). [March 24, 1994
written statement to 6th Annual Advanced Growth
Management Short Course sponsored by the Florida
Chamber of Commerce)
B. STAFF
1. Role of the Staff.
Staff's role is in general, neither to be proponent
or opponent of a request, but an advisor to ensure
that the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development
Regulations are properly followed.
2. Advisor to Decision-maker.
As advisor to the decision-maker, staff members
should provide factual background and plan and code
analysis for the decision-maker. That analysis may
include a recommendation either supporting,
supporting with certain modifications, or opposing
a zoning request, variance, or conditional use
permit.
3. Staff Reports.
A local governing body is not bound by departmental
reports (Graham Companies vs. Dade County, Case No.
93-163AP, 2 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 241, 242 (Fla.
11th Cir. ct. Apr. 22, 1994). However, when the
report is unrefuted or when there is no contrary
information, it appears that the reports must be
accepted. Id.
4. Substantial Competent Evidence.
Additionally, the decision-maker's decision will
stand only if it is supported by substantial
competent evidence which often may be provided by
staff. In making presentations, staff should
ensure that all relevant facts to the matter are
placed into the record as evidence, and at the
conclusion of the presentation, the evidence and
opinions should be summarized.
5. Staff Expertise.
In the respect that staff has a particular
expertise such as in traffic, fire safety, or
environmental engineering, and is called upon to
give his/her knowledge or advice in the specific
area of expertise, staff is then viewed as
competent, expert witness in the public hearing
process.
6. Staff Response.
If staff statements are rebutted by another party,
staff should:
a. Prepare to respond and attempt to overcome the
rebuttal;
b. Present evidence to clarify or overcome the
testimony;
c. Ask any relevant questions to ensure that all
relevant information is before the decision-
maker; and
d. If an answer is unknown, staff appropriately
should indicate the fact.
7. Board Member/staff Communication.
According to David A. Theriaque, attorney with
Apgar, Pelham Pfeiffer & Theriaque, "all
communications, including those with staff, which
are conducted outside of a quasi-judicial
proceeding are ex parte communications. . staff
communications have the potential to be biased
either in favor of development or in favor of the
environment. Consequently, ex parte information
provided to commissioners may be tainted in such a
fashion as to further the goals of the staff."
8. Exceptions to Board Member/staff Communications.
David Theriaque does note that "The fact that such
communications are ex parte does not preclude all
communications between: staff and commissioners. A
legitimate distinction can be drawn between oral
and written ex parte communications. While there
should be no oral communications, I do not believe
that 'Jenningsl precludes all written
communications provided the following measures are
taken:
1. If a commissioner requires information from
staff, the request should be made in writing,
placed in the file main,tained by staff and
made available for public inspection, and
provided to all interested parties known to be
involved in the matter.
2.
staff must respond in writing
provide a copy of the response
parties and place a copy
maintained by staff.
and similarly
to interested
in the file
3. A copy of the commissioner1s request and
staff/s response should be entered into
evidence at the quasi-judicial proceeding.
While it is true that such written communications
are ex parte communications, providing copies to
all interested parties at the time the written
communication is made and at the beginning of the
public hearing should remove any prejudice.
Interested parties will have the opportuni ty to
refute information which they believe to be
inaccurate. It is difficult to envision a court
holding that written ex parte communications
coupled with the se procedures were prejudicial to
VIII.
a party." (March 24, 1995 written statement to 6th
Annual Advanced Growth Management Short Course
sponsored by the Florida Chamber of Commerce]
HEARING REQUIREMENTS/CONDITIONS:
A.
Quality of Due Process.
It is well established that quasi-judicial hearings do
not require the same quality of due process as that to
which a party is entitled in a judicial hearing. (Goss
vs. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975); Jenninqs, 589 So. 2d at
1340; Lee County vs. Sunbelt Equities, 619 So. 2d 996
(Fla. 2d DCA 1993). However, certain standards of basic
fairness are necessary to afford adequate due process.
(Handlev vs. Department of Administration, 411 So. 2d 184
(Fla. 1982); Jenninqs, 589 So. 2d at 1340.
B. Rules of Evidence.
A quasi-judicial hearing requires that the parties must
present evidence, cross examine witnesses, and be
informed of all facts upon which the decision maker acts.
However, strict rules of evidence and procedure are not
required for such proceedings as is required in a
judicial hearing.
c. Rules of Procedure.
The chair of quasi-judicial proceedings has the
challenging role of maintaining order in a hearing of
this type. In order to maintain proper order in a public
hearing, fairly detailed procedures are helpful to guide
the process.
D. Immunity.
Most type of immunity which may apply to an official in
this type of hearing is determined by the
characterization of the activity in the particular case
under consideration. Generally, absolute immunity has
been applied to local legislators for conduct in
furtherance of their duties. Further, absolute immunity
has been granted in cases where the decision-maker is
operating in a quasi-judicial setting. This is
distinguished from persons acting in an administrative
function who have been entitled to qualified or "good
faith" immunity. However, a qualified immunity defense
will not be available if the commissioner or board member
knowingly conducted the business in violation of the law
or acted with malice.
The above points were held in the fOllowing cases,
respectively: Hernandez vs. city of Lafayette, 643 F.2d
1188 (5th Cir. Unit A, 1981), cert. den. 455 U.S. 907
(1982)j Ellis vs. Coffey County Board of Reqistrars, 981
F.2d 1185 (11th Cir. 1993)j Bay tree of Inverrarv Realtv
Partners vs. city of Lauderhill, 873 F.2d 1407 (11th Cir.
1989)j Butz vs. Economou, 438 U.S. 478 (1978) j on remand
466 F. Supp. 1351 (S.D.N.Y. 1979)j Akins vs. Deptford
Township, 813 F. Supp. 12098 (D. N.J. 1993), aff'd 17
F.3d 1428 (3d Circ. 1994) j Kinderhill Farm Breeding
Assoc. vs. Ap~el, 450 F. Supp. 134 (S.D. N. Y. 1978) j
Adler vs. Lynch, 415 F. Supp. 705 (D. Neb. 1976)j Crymes
vs. DeKalb County, 923 F. 2d 1482 (11th Cir. 1991)j and
Espanola Way Corp. vs. Meverson, 690 F.2d 827 (11th Cir.
1982), cert. den, 460 U.S. 1039 (1983).
NOTE:
The categorization of these actions as quasi-
judicial would appear to imbue the decision
makers with absolute immunity based on the
'Butz' decision and its progeny, but this
issue has not _-been addressed since the
'Snyder' decision.
E. Examples of Unacceptable Testimony by Residents:
The comments of witnesses must be probative or competent
as to whether the standards in the ordinance have been
satisfied. Comments by neighbors that they don't want a
project approved, and that it will generate heavy
traffic, for example, or light and pollution problems, in
and of themselves are not competen~ statements, because
neighbors are usually not expert in traffic or
environmental engineering. Thus, neighbors are not
competent witnesses, unless a neighbor states on the
record what his credentials are as a traffic or
environmental engineer, or what the basis of his
testimony is.
F. Expressions of Mass Opinion at Quasi-Judicial Hearings:
How many times have you been at a hearing when someone
gets up and asks the question "How many people here
oppose this project"? Everybody in the room raises their
had except the developer, developer's attorney, the
permitting board, the planner, and the board attorney.
Acceptable behavior? Definitely not.
The fact that there may be a large number of objectors to
the approval of a permit or other quasi-judicial decision
is not a sound basis for the denial of a permit, no
matter how strenuous the objections. The function of
quasi-judicial boards or a governing body acting in a
quasi-judicial capacity must be exercised on the basis of
facts adduced and upon appropriate zoning principles and
objectives as set forth in the Zoning Ordinance and is
not to be based on a mere poll or plebiscite of the
neighbors.
The merits of the application, rather than the number of
opponents, must be the controlling consideration. since
quasi-judicial hearings involve a board determination
that certain standards set for in the Zoning Ordinance
have been met, requiring an affirmative vote of the
neighbors may be unconstitutional as an improper
delegation of legislative authority. Gardiner vs.
Stanley Orchards, 432 N.Y.S. 2d 335 (1980).
Local governing bodies and boards acting in a quasi-
judicial capacity should base their decisions on fact and
not indulge in "government by applause meter" A. A.
Profiles, Inc. vs. city of Fort Lauderdale, 850 F.2d 1483
(11th Cir. 1988).
G. Examples of Acceptable Testimony by Residents:
In City of Fort Lauderdale vs. Multidyne Medical Waste
Manaqement, 567 So.2d 955 (Fla. 4th DCA 1990), rev.
denied, 581 So.2d 165 (Fla. 1991), the following
testimony opposing a medical waste incinerator facility
was found sufficient to support the City Commission's
denial of the permit:
1. Letter from a law professor claiming to be an
expert in the field of air pollution;
"'
2. Testimony of a veterinarian 'Who claimed to have
expertise related to incineration and disposal of
infectious medical waste.
Another example involved a case in which a court
determined that a board of zoning appeals, in determining
the high water mark at a specific location, can accept
testimony of neighbors who were eyewitnesses to the tides
and waves as more persuasive than the testimony of expert
witnesses. Mack vs. Municipal Officers of Cape
Elizabeth, 463 A.2d 717 (Me. 1983). In effect the
eyewitnesses become "expert witnesses".
Plainly, statements of neighbors regarding the effect of
a development on their quality of life is also
admissible. city of st. Petersburg vs. Cardinal
Industries Development Corp., 493 So.2d 535,538 (Fla. 2d
DCA 1986); Graham Companies vs. Dade County, Case No. 93-
163AP, 2 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. 241, 2542 (Fla. 11th Circ.
ct. Apr. 22, 1994). Lay citizens have the ability to
testify how conditions in a neighborhood have changed
over time, if they have witnessed those changes.
H. Testimony Regarding Factors outside the Standards for
Approval.
Lay testimony about subjects that a lay witness is not
competent to testify to, or mere personal opinions do not
constitute substantial, competent evidence. Graham
Companies, 2 Fla. L. Weekly Supp. at 242-43. Other cases
involve situations in which there is opinion testimony
presented that does not relate to the criteria in the
ordinance for granting a permit. This type of tesitmony
should be ignored. Friendship Neiqhborhood Coalition vs.
District of Columbia Board of Zoninq Adiustment, 403 A.
2d 291 (DC App. 1979) (Commissioner of Advisory
Neighborhood Commission testified that grant of a special
exception for a parking lot was "the wrong kind of
expansion" . )
So that a reviewing court can ascertain the competence of
a witness, the witness should state at the public hearing
who they are, what their ability is to testify to a
particular matter, and what the source of their
information is.
I. Cross Examination of witnesses:
In 'Jennings', the Court noted that the quality of due
process required in a quasi-judicial zoning proceeding is
not the same as that to which a party to full jUdicial
hearing is entitled. The court stated:
"A quasi-judicial hearing generally meets basic
due process requirements if the parties are
provided notice of the hearing and an opportunity
to be heard. In quasi-judicial zoning proceedings
the parties must be able to present evidence,
cross-examine witnesses, an be informed of all
facts upon which the (government agency) acts."
The parties referenced in such opinion are the applicant
and the government agency. The 'Jennings' decision does
not, in any way, recognize a right on behalf of all
neighboring property owners to cross-examine any and all
individuals who may speak for or against a zoning
application. To recognize such a right on behalf of all
"interested" persons would create a cumbersome, unwieldy
procedural nightmare for local government bodies.
J. Assuring a Complete Record by Staff in Quasi-Judicial
Hearings:
One of the primary staff goals of hearings is to ensure
that relevant facts and evidence are in the record for
the decision maker's consideration. The following items
should always be entered into the record by the staff:
K.
-
L.
1. The agenda packet or staff report.
2. The most recent copies of resumes of those speaking
on the matter.
3 . Relevant documents and comments entered into the
record at a prior board meeting.
4. Correspondence and reports from others directed to
any decision maker, department or staff person
regarding the substance of the hearing (should be
placed in a reading file and made available to the
public prior to the pUblic hearing) .
NOTE: It is staff's responsibility to ensure that a
complete agenda packet or staff report is
included in the record. Also, staff resumes
need to be updated as necessary to accurately
reflect the position, education and experience
of those staff members who are involved in
making recommendations and materials for the
decision maker's consideration in the public
hear ings . Further, a t the hearing, if a
particular issue -_ is likely to be raised, a
qualified staff member should be available to
answer the questions.
staff Restrictions on Ex Parte Discussions:
Is staff subject to the restrictions on ex parte
discussions which are placed on parties? It would
appear so, if they are considered parties to the
proceeding. If they are not parties, it would appear
that advisory staff is not prohibited to talking to
decision makers in private, although conversations with
the applicant, the public and other potential parties to
the proceeding should not be discussed with the decision
maker to avoid doing indirectly what cannot be done
directly. This is similar to restrictions on staff
discussions with a decision maker regarding comments of
other decision makers under the "Government in the
Sunshine" laws. (Chapter 286 Florida Statutes; Blackford
vs. School Board of Orange County. 375 So. 2d 578 (Fla.
5th DCA 1979).
Attorneys:
Ex parte restrictions under the 'Jennings' decision would
not prohibit contact with the decision maker as that
attorney's client, although it may limit the ability to
convey any comments from discussions with various parties
to a decision maker.
Testimony from attorneys representing parties in quasi-
judicial hearings has not generally been considered
competent substantial evidence. (National Advertisinq
Company vs. Broward County, 491 So. 2d 1262 (Fla. 4th DCA
1986) .
Rule 4-3.7 of the Rules Regulating the Florida Bar
states:
(a) When Lawyer May Testify. A lawyer shall not
act as advocate at a trial in which the lawyer
is likely to be a necessary witness on behalf
of the client except where:
(1) The testimony relates to an uncontested
issue;
(2) The testimony will relate solely to
matter of formality and there is no
reason to believe that substantial
evidence will be offered in opposition to
the testimony;
(3) The testimony relates to the nature and
value of the legal services rendered in
the case; or-
(4) Disqualification of the lawyer would work
substantial hardship on the client.
(b) Other Members of Law Firm as witnesses. A
lawyer may act as advocate in a trial in which
another attorney in the lawyer's firm is
likely to be called as witness unless
precluded from doing so by Rule 4-1.7 or 4-1.9
The use of "trial" in the Rule would appear to limit
application of this Rule to judicial hearings and not
quasi-judicial hearings. Thus, there appear to be no
ethical prohibition to attorney testimony in quasi-
judicial hearings subject to other general limitations
based on the attorney/client relationship.
M. Voting Requirement at Meetings of Governmental Bodies:
Under present Florida law, a member of decision making
body generally must vote on an issue. Florida Statutes
286.012 provides the broad requirements regarding voting
and states as follows:
"Voting requirement at meetings of governmental
bodies No member of any state, county, or
municipal governmental board, commission or agency
who is present at any meeting of any such body at
which an official decision, ruling or other
official act is to be taken or adopted may abstain
from voting in regard to any such decision, ruling,
or act; an a vote shall be recorded or counted for
each such member present, except when, with respect
to any such member, there is, or appears to be, a
possible conflict of interest under the provisions
of 112.311, 112.313, or 112.3143 Florida statutes.
In such cases, said member shall comply with the
disclosure requirements of 1121. 3143 F. S. II
Florida statutes 112.3143(3) sets forth specific
restrictions on voting for local public officials and
provides in relevant part as follows:
"No county, municipal or other local public officer
shall vote in his official capacity upon any
measure which would inure to his special private
gain; which he knows would inure to the special
private gain of any principal by whom he is
retained or to the parent organization or
subsidiary of a corporate principal by with he is
retained, other than agency as defined in
112.312(2); or which he knows would inure to the
special private gain of a relative or business
associate of the public officer."
Chapter 120 Florida statutes, The "Administrative
Procedure Act" states:
IINotwithstanding the provisions of l12.3143 F.S.
any individual serving alone or with others as an
agency head may be disqualified from serving in an
agency proceeding for bias, prejudice or interest
when any party to the agency proceeding shows just
cause by a suggestion filed within a reasonable
period of time prior to the agency proceeding. II
Florida statutes 112.311 provides in part:
"(1) It is essential to proper conduct and
operation of government that public officials be
independent and impartial and that public office
not be used for private gain other than the
remuneration provided by law. . .
" (2) . The law against conflict of interest
must be designed as not to impede unreasonably or
unnecessarily the recruitment and retention by
government of those best qualified to serve.
Public off icials should not be denied the
opportunity, available to all other citizens, to
acquire and retain private economic interests
except when conflicts with the responsibility of
such officials to the public cannot be avoided."
While mandatory voting requirements may be appropriate in
legislative hearings, it is opinioned that they may be
inappropriate in quasi-judicial settings if a hair
hearing is not possible with a member of the decision
making body voting. It may be unclear whether very
general language in 112.311 F. S. could be applied to
allow an exemption to 286.012 F.S.; therefore I should any
voting member question whether they have a conflict of
interest I that voting member should seek legal opinion
from the attorney representing the governing body.
N. Voting by Members Who Were Not Present at the Original
Hearing; New Board Members:
It has been generally held that a members may vote
although he was not present to hear the evidence. 82 Am.
Jur. 2d Zoninq and Planning #313 (1976). The idea is
that the board is continuous in naturel and even a change
in membership on the board does not disturb the board's
continuity. (The foregoing statement is in the context
that evidence had been presented at a previous hearing on
the same matter.)
However I a member who has not attended a (previous)
hearing on the matter, should not vote, unless he has
examined all the evidence at the hearing.
In summary, so long as competent understanding exists on
the part of a new board member or a regular board member
(who had been absent at the first hearing in which a
zoning matter was heard), he would vote on the matter
after he has examined the evidence, based on the premise
that the second or third hearing he was in attendance at
would have data, cumulative in nature, provided.
O. Final Orders:
Any motion upon which the board votes in deciding the
case, application, or other request, should contain
specific findings of fact and conclusions of law (drawn
from the City/s Code of Ordinances) indicating the
factual and legal basis for the motion. These findings
of fact and conclusions of law would thereafter be
incorporated into a written document stating the decision
of the board on the application or case.
P. Files to be Maintained.
All evidence (documentation including reports, letters I
photos I plansl etc.) admitted at the hearing and the
original document setting forth the decision of the
board, is to be maintained in a separate file
constituting the record of the case. Upon approval by
the board, the minutes of that portion of the meeting
concerning the case shall be placed in the record. The
record is to be kept in the custody of the clerk of the
board at all times, whereby the public may examine the
file in the Office of the Clerk at all reasonable times.
CONCLUSION:
It is important to remember that quasi-judicial hearings are
not intended to and not required to be held to the same degree
of formality as a full judicial hearing. However, certain
minimum restrictions related to ex parte discussions and
procedural requirements are applied. The importance is in
establishing compliance with the comprehensive plan and land
development regulations on all quasi-judicial matters which
are presented to a Council/Commission and administrative
boards, accomplished via evidentiary rules and the
"substantial competent evidence rulell vs. the "highly
debatable deferential rule" for decision making.
liThe 1995 legislature is considering remedial amendments which
would clarify the 'Jennings' problem for county and municipal
zoning officials. Some of these proposals would allow
officials to continue participation, but require that any
written materials submitted ex parte be made part of the
record, and would require that summaries of any oral
conversations be submitted and made part of the record. Such
legislative actions, assuming they meet the requirements of
constitutional due process, will eliminate much of the fear
and uncertainty that have enveloped zoning officials and their
counsel since the 'Jennings' and 'Snyder' decisions." [March
24, 1994 written statement by C. Allen Watts, attorney with
Cobb, Cole & Bell, to 6th Annual Advanced Growth Management
Short Course sponsored by the Florida Chamber of Commerce]
traffic volumes. The projected development and traffic volumes
will not likely be realized to require the construction of the
winter springs Loop or the Shore Road Extension.
It should also be noted that the Early Property is now being
developed as a residential subdivision. The Shore Road Extension
would run through the west portion of this subdivision.
The Panama Road Extension is slated only as a Corridor Study in
Table TC-T9 of the Comprehensive Plan under "Year 1.997 Recommended
Improvements". For purposes of alignment, and to avoid the lake
and the City's sanitary sewage facility spray fields, staff
suggests that this road extension continue eastward from Banana
Road rather than Panama Road.
Funding:
The winter Springs Loop is proposed to be partially built with the
City's Transportation Impact Fee, while the Shore Road Extension
and the Panama Road Extension are both proposed to be funded
totally by the impact fee. It should also be noted that Panama
Road between Moss Road and Shore Road is slated for improvement
(after 1.996) with funding coming from the City's Transportation
Impact Fee.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the P & Z Board (acting in its capacity as
the Local Planning Agency) recommend the desirability to delete
from the text and maps of the Comprehensive Plan the winter Springs
Loop, and the Shore Road Extension, and the extension of the road
eastward from Banana Road rather than from pananma Road.
In view of the staff recommendation to delete the above roads,
staff recommends consideration of an adjustment or perhaps
elimination of the City's Transportation Impact Fee as indicated in
Policy 1., Objective A of the Traffic Circulation Element of the
Comprehensive Plan and Sec. 9-386.1. through 21. of the city Code.
A study should be done to find out the effects of such an
adjustment or elimination of the impact fees on other proposed road
improvements indicated in the Comprehensive Plan.
It should be noted that amendments to delete the Shore Road
Extension and possible elimination of the Transportation Impact Fee
may prompt a strong challenge from the Florida Department of
Community Affairs when the proposed amendments are transmitted to
them for their review.
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327.1800
Community Development
l\ffiMORANDUM
TO:
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD/LOCAL PLANNING AGENCY
THRU:
JOHN KETTERINGHAM, GENERAL SERVICES DIRECTOR
FROM;
THOMAS GRIMMS, AICP COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR _ -j~
JULY 20, 1995
DATE:
RE:
PLANNING INFORMATION PROGRAM
In reviewing the Zoning Ordinance, I came across Sec. 20-57
"Duties; general" of the Planning and Zoning Board. One of the
duties is to . . ."keep itself informed as to the best practices
generally in effect in the matter of city planning and zoning. . ."
As a member of the American Planning Association and American
Institute of certified Planners, I receive various publications
that discuss principles and practices of planning as well as very
recent developments.
In an effort to help keep the Board informed and up-to-date on
planning matters, I will endeavor to include such articles etc.
with each month's agenda packet.
If you have any questions or would like more information on any
topic appearing in the "For Your Information" section of the
monthly agenda packet, please call me at 327-1800 X 315.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
--
,-
FL
PLA
Volume VII, Number 6
NEWSLETTER OF THE FLORIDA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION
July/August 1995
COPING WITH THE PRIVATE
PROPERTY RIGHTS PROTECTION ACT
BY TOM PELHAM
The 1995 Florida Legislature enacted the Pri-
vate Property Rights Protection Act (the "Act").
Bach public and pri vate sector planners need to be
aware of the provisions of the Act. However,
public sector planners. particularly those em-
ployed by local governments, have a special
responsibility to educate themselves about the
Act's requirements. In the future, they must
exercise their planning and regulatory responsi-
bilities to protect the public welfare while avoid-
in~e potencial liability which nows from a
vi ~n of the new Act. This article identifies
SOh.. of the threshold issues arising under the
Act.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE ACT
The Act creates a new judicial cause of action. If
a state. regional or local governmental entity
"inordinately burdens" an (1) ex.isting use of real
property or (2) a vested right to a specific use of
real property. the property owner may sue in
court for compensation for the actual loss to the
fair market value of the property. The Act de fines
"existing use" as "an actual. present use or activ-
':':r. '-.' . '''. : -.-. '. :." .' :.':
':oX,: '.Inslde.' .'. .';.- :
, .. 1....... ~. _ _ <..;. .',
.'. ;.. .'~ ~ ,': -. : . . -.
· FAPA Strategic Plan 3
· Agricultural Land Use 5
· Membership Survey 7
· 1995 Annual Conference 9
, ".- .ofessional Development
,(eport 11
· Source of Our Etbics 16
ity on the real property" or any "reasonably
foreseeable, non-speculative. land .uses which
are suitable for the subject real property and
compatible with adjacent land uses and which
have created an existing fair market value in the
property greater than the fair market value of the
actual. present use or acti vicy on the real prop-
erty,"
The Act defines "inordinate burden" as any ac-
tion of governmental entities which directly re-
stricts the use of property so that the property
owner is permanencly unable to realize a reason-
able investment-backed expectation forthe ex.ist-
ing use or a vested right or so that the landowner
is left with such unreasonable uses of the property
that the owner must bear "perrnanencly a dispro-
portionate share of a burden imposed for the good
of the public. which in fairness should be born by
the public at large." Although it uses language
typically employed by courts in resolving takings
claims. the Act expressly states that it "provides
a cause of action for governmental actions that
may not rise to the level of a taking under the State
Constitution or the United States Constitution,"
The Act establishes an important prerequisite to
filing suit in court. At least 180 days prior to
filing suit, the landowner must present its written
claim. accompanied with a valid appraisal dem-
onstrating the loss ill fair market value. to the
heads of the governmencal entities involved.
During the IOO-day pre-suit period. the govern-
mental entities involved must make a written
settlement offer which may include a broad range
of alternatives. including approval of some or all
of the proposed development, transfer of devel-
<?pment rights, purchase of some or all of the
property, or reaffmnation of the governmencal
entity's original action_ If the landowner accepts
the offer. then a setclement agreement between
the governmental entity and landowner is effec-
tuated. If the settlement offer is not accepted by
the property owner, the governmental enticy must.
within the l80-day period. issue a written ripe-
ness decision specifying the uses to which the
property may be put. This ripeness decision shall
constitute the last prerequisite to judicial review
PROPERTY RIGHTS cOnlinued on page 15
5!nlWuncing .
FAPA Annual Conference - September 27-29,
Tampa Hyatt. For Details: 1-800-599-8908.
..
..
Chapter Seeking Student Representative. Interested?
Contact the Chapter Office at (904) 222-0808.
Membership Directory to be Distributed @Annual
Conference. Contact Your Local Section to Assure That
Your Lis~ing is Correct. " -
PRQPERTY RIGHTS concinuedfrom page I
. of the governmental action under the new-Act. ..
If the property owner files suit under the new Act. the' circuit court must
detc:rmine whether the governmental action has inordinately burdened an
existing use or vested right to a specific use of the real property. After the court
has determined that an inordinate burden has been imposed on property, and
~1110wing resolution of any interlocutory appeal of that determination, the court
,lust empanel a jury to determine the total amount of compensation to be
awarded to the property owner. The prevailing party is entitled to recover
reasonable cost and attorney's fees.
The Act does not apply to any governmental actions relating to transportation
facilities, e.g., theconstTUction of roads. Also, it does not apply to the application
of any law enacted or noticed for adoption prior to adjournment of the 1995
Legislature. Amendments to such laws are covered by the Act only to the extent
they impose an inordinate burden over and above the original law. Finally, any
cause of action under the Act must be brought within one year after the law is
first applied to the property involved.
WHA T IS AN EXISTING USE?
The Act's definition of "existing use" presents problems. The first prong of the
definition-an actual, present use or activity-is self-explanatory and should
present little difficulty. However, the second prong-a reasonably foreseeable.
non-speculative land use-raises many questions. When is a land use reason-
ably foreseeable? What is a non-speculative land use? How does onedetennine
whether this land use is suitable for the subject real property? How are we to
determine whether this reasonably foreseeable, non-speculative land use is
compatible with adjacent land uses? The other defining characteristic of this
category of existing use creates a field day for appraisers; the reasonably
foreseeable. non-speculative land use must be appraised at a higher fair market
value than that of the actual, present use.
The "reasonably foreseeable, non-speculative" category of existing use appears
to be aimed at the urban fringe. Its most obvious application is to property which
is located adjacent to urban growth boundaries or urban service areas or the
transitional area from urban to undeveloped rural or agricultural land. The
owner of undeveloped rural, agricultural or even suburban lands which are
adjacent to developed lands or lands located just inside an urban growth
-'-oundary can obviously claim that he or she has a reasonably foreseeable urban
.e for the property which is compatible with the adjacent developed land and
which. because of its location. has a higher fair market value than that of the
actual, present use.
Local governments will have to exercise great care in dealing with such
situations. One suggestion is to write into local comprehensive plans and land
development regulations standards or guidelines for defining when a land use is
"reasonably foreseeable" or "non-speculative" or for determining compatibility
with adjacent land uses. For example, timing provisions can be used to carefully
circumscribe those land uses which are reasonably foreseeable and strict
compatibility standards can be established for determining when a future use is
compatible with an adjacent land use.
WHAT IS A VESTED RIGHT?
Detennining the existence of a vested right may be an easier proposition than
identifying a reasonably foreseeable, non-speculative land use. The Act
provides that the existence of a vested right is to be determined under common
law principles of equitable estoppel or substantive due process or any relevant
state statutory provision. FortUnately, there is an extensive body of case law in
Florida dealing with the doctrine of equitable estoppel. Essentially, a vested
right occurs if the landowner has relied in good faith on some act of government
by incurring significant expenditures or substantially changing its position so
that it would be unfair to talce away the rights acquired through the reliance.
Numerous Florida cases deal with each of the elements of equitable estoppel.
What bnd of governmental act is the landowner entitled to rely on? Was the
reliance in good faith? What amount of expenditures are sufficient to create a
vested right under this doctrine? What types of changes in position will be
sufficient to create an estoppel against the government? Governmental regula-
tors will have to be familiar with this body of case law.
._.2:rior to the Act, the doctrine of equitable estoppel provided only for an
;unctive remedy. If the landowner had acquired a vested right. a court could
enjoin the local government from applying new regulations to the landowner or
changing the regulations in mid-stream. However. the new Act provides for a
compensation remedy. If the regulation inordinately burdens the vested right.
then the landowner is entitled to compensation.
To avoid regulatory actions which inordinately burden vested rights, local
governments may want to include in their local comprehensive plans and land
development regulations administrative provisions for determining the exist-
ence of vested rights. By providing such procedures, the local governments can
ensure that there will be a careful review of each situation prior to the application
of new regulations. These administrative processes will emphasize the impor-
tance of vested rights and provide a safeguard against regulatory actions which
violate the Act.
WHAT IS AN INORDINATE BURDEN?
How can a regulatory body determine whether a regulation inordinately burdens
private property? To answer this question, a regulator or a reviewing court must
determine whether the regulation prevents the landowner from realizing a
"reasonable investment-backed expectation for the existing use or vested right
or whether the landowner is left with uses of its property that are so unreasonable
that the public at large should have to pay." Although the Act expressly provides
that an inordinate burden is something short of an actual taking, a review of
judicial decisions involving the takings issue may be useful. Many of these cases
deal with "reasonable investment-backed expectations" and may provide some
guidance. However, it may be prudent for local governments to further define
these terms in their local comprehensive plans or land development regulations.
These are only a few of the threshold issues arising under the Act. Undoubtedly,
the passage of time and the application of the Act will give rise to other questions.
It will probably take several years before the parameters of the Act have been
clearl): defined by judicial decisions. In the meantime, governmental regulatory
agencies must exercise their regulatory authoriry with much greater care.
Planners can play an important role in achieving the necessary balance between
protection of the public interest and private property rights.
Tom Pelham is a partner in rhe Tallahassee law finn of Apgar, Pelham, Pfeiffer
& Theriaque and rhe Presidenr-elecr of Florida APA.
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARDILPA AGENDA ITEM:
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
CONSIDERATION OF THE JULY 5TH P & Z MEETING MINUTES.
July 5th Minutes as submitted by:
shirley A. Frankhouser
Adminiistrative Secretary
Prepared on July 24th
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
III.
ANNUAL ELECTION OF OFFICERS
BACKGROUND:
Sec. 20-54 of the City Code provide for the selection of a chairman
and vice-chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board. It states:
There shall be a chairman and vice-chairman of the
Planning and Zoning Board selected from and by the
members. They shall serve a term of one (1) year
or until their appointment to the board is terminated,
whichever is shorter, unless sooner removed by the
board.
The annual election of officers scheduled for the July 5, 1995
regular meeting of the P & Z Board was rescheduled by the Board to
the August 2, 1995 regular meeting due to two vacancies coming up
for appointment.
NOTE:
Apparently, there have been no rules of conduct adopted
by the Planning and Zoning Board/Local Planning Agency
with respect to time of election of officers, and other
matters.
Also, the P & Z Board is potentially a quasi-judicial
body in certain matters that come before it, such as
rezonings, site specific land use amendments, or other
site-specific development requests.
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
IV A.
OLD BOSINESS
LEFFLER REZONING REQUEST FROM RURAL URBAN (RU) TO PLANNED
UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD) - PUBLIC HEARING
STAFF REPORT:
BACKGROUND:
Judge K. Leffler, on behalf of the Leffler Company, has made
request to change that zoning assigned to approximately 177 acres
north of S.R. 434 and east of the Seminole County School Board
facilities from Rural Urban (R-U) to Planned unit Development
(P.U.D.).
In conjunction with this request, a Master, Plan (Wagner station
PUD) was submitted as per Code requirements.
The Staff Review Board had this request as an agenda item at their
meeting of June 6, 1995.
A concept plan of the Wagner Station PUD was presented to the
Planning and Zoning Board for their views on July 5, 1995. [See
July 5th P & Z Board Minutes in this agenda packet] At that
meeting the P & Z Board voted to hold a public hearing on the
rezoning at its August 2, 1995 regular meeting.
ANALYSIS:
The Future Land Use Designation for this property is Mixed Use
which is compatible with the rezoning request.
At the Staff Review Board meeting, D. McIntosh, representing the
project, discussed the Master Plan and stated that the approach
used was that of flexible land use - assigning multi-uses to a
parcel while a decision is made as to the best use of the land.
Then the preliminary engineering would be submitted for review.
,,---
Different land uses addressed were residential, retirement/nursing
facilities, apartments, condos, professional offices and commercial
uses.
The applicant is aware that there is a very strong possibility that
the CSX Railroad and that there are a multitude of proposed uses
for this right-of-way once it is abandoned.
There was discussion on traffic patterns, reclaimed water, water
front recreation, etc.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
The staff Review Board recommends that request be approved.
,-
.-
CITY OF WI NTER SPRI NGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
IV. B.
OLD BUSINESS
UPDATE/DISCUSSION OF LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
STATUS REPORT
STAFF REPORT:
BACKGROUND:
".--
The Planning and zoning Board [sitting as the Local Planning Agency
in its review of the draft Land Development Regulations (LDRs)]
discussed with Mr. Fred Goodrow on May 17th the suggested changes
at the April 19th P & Z Meeting. Mr. Goodrow revised the draft
LDRs in response to the discussion at the May 17th meeting. This
revised draft was sent out to the P & Z Board members in their July
5th agenda packet.
STATUS:
NOTE:
According to the Consultant Agreement with the City I Fred
will:
*
Attend three (3) meetings of the P & Z Board to assist
the Board in its deliberations on the amendments. (Fred
attended two meetings at this point)
* Will prepare a new draft incorporating the Board's
recommendations for a Public Hearing.
* Attend one (1) public hearing and one concluding work
session of the P & Z Board.
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
v.
NEW BUSINESS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN
COLLECTOR ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEES.
STAFF REPORT:
BACKGROUND:
The city commission at its July 10th regular meeting acted to
request the Planning and Zoning Board (in its capacity as the Local
Planning Agency) to make recommendation on a possible comprehensive
plan amendment to delete from the Comprehensive Plan various
proposed collector roads and reconsideration of the Transportation
Impact Fee.
In the City's Comprehensive Plan, Volume 1 of 2, the Traffic
Circulation Element contains both text and maps (TC-F4 and TC-F6)
that indicate certain proposed collector roacts:
* winter Springs Loop
Traversing along the north side of S.R. 434, extending
from S.R. 419 to S.R. 434 west of Brantley Road. This
road would have four entrances onto S.R. 434.
* Shore Road Extension
From Sailfish Road Through Panama Road southward just
east of Fisher Road to Lake Drive.
* Panama Road Extension
From the intersection of Panama Road and Shore Road
eastward to Tuskawilla Road.
ANALYSIS:
Roads:
staff has reviewed the above proposed collector roads in relation
to the City's existing road network, where development has and is
occurring since the adoption year of the Comprehensive Plani and
Planning and Zoning Board
Meeting Minutes
August 2, 1995
1. Call to Order:
Meeting called to order by Chairperson Hoffinann at 7: 00 P.M.
Attendance:
Art Hoffinann, Chairperson, Present
Gene Lein, Present
William Fernandez, Present
Carl Stephens, Jr., Present
Sherilyn Hill, Absent
Donald R. LeBlanc, Land Management Specialist
2. Consideration of the July 5. 1995 Meeting Minutes:
Mr. Stephens moved to approve the minutes ofJuly 5, 1995 as presented. Seconded by Mr,
Lein. Vote: Mr. Fernandez, Abstain, (not present at July 5 meeting); Mr. Stephens, aye; Mr.
Lein, aye; Chairperson Hoffinann, aye; motioned carried.
3. Annual Election of Officers:
Mr. Lein nominated Mr. Hoffmann for Chairperson. Seconded by Mr. Stephens. Vote:
Chairperson Hoffmann, aye; Mr. Lein, aye; Mr. Stephens, aye; Mr. Fernandez, aye; motion
carried.
Mr. Lein nominated Mr. Stephens for Vice-Chairperson. Seconded by Chairperson HofTmamll.
Vote: Chairperson Hoffinann, aye; Mr. Lein, aye; Mr. Stephens, aye; Mr. Fernandez, aye;
motion carried.
4. Public Hearing:
Leffler reauest to rezone approximately 177 acres. north of S.H. 434.
from Rural Urban (R-U) to Planned Unit Development (P.U.D.)
Mr. LeBlanc said that this was presented at the last Planning and Zoning meeting and the Code
requires a public hearing. This was advertised in the Orlando Sentinel. The Planning and Zoning
Board have the plans, and Mr. McIntosh is present to further discuss it, if it is the Board's desire.
Chairperson HotTmann asked if adjacent property owners were notified?
Mr. LeBlanc answered, "the adjacent property owners were notified; people along the sides,
across the highway, the school board, the county, and the people who own this property here,
(pointing to the plans).
There is nothing in the Code that addresses the notification of property owners. It was at the
Planning and Zoning Board
Meeting lVIinutes - August 2, 1995
Page 3
As a function of this varied use, the single-family uses, multi-family uses, we think a signal will be
warranted. We will attempt in the future stages to define exactly when that would take place.
The property borders Lake Jesup, an area asset, but is known as a "taxed water body," because it
is affected by "over-nutrientazation." There has been frequent agricultural nutrient discharge into
the lake.
At the very minimum, ironically, the development of those lands around the lake, bringing with it
the requirement for predevelopment and postdevelopment stormwater runoff. Balancing, and
pollution abatement treatment before discharge of any runoff to the lake, has the effect of
increasing the water quality as it relates to the effect of this adjacent property.
Wetlands that are adjacent to the lake will be identified during the final design of the project.
Permitted consistent with the Water Management District, Core of Engineers, Department of
Environmental Protection, and others if applicable.
Mr. McIntosh described Tract "A" which is proposed for single-family detached, zero lot line
detached, assisted living (including nursing home facilities) and recreation. . .
"'*At this point (about 18-20 minutes into the meeting) the recorder stopped working"'*
The following are from notes taken by the Recording Secretary.
Mr. Stephens wanted to know the lot sizes.
Mr. McIntosh said they are proposing (218) residential units, (10) units per acre.
Mr. Fernandez asked Mr. McIntosh if the plan will include a "Rails-to-Trails" bike path?
Mr. LeBlanc said the CSX will not give the "right-of-way."
Mr. McIntosh discussed bike paths.
Discussion of railroad safety regarding gates for various locations.
Discussion of abandonment of the railroad. Mr. Lein asked when this would happen.
Mr. LeBlanc reported that the final comments are to be in around August 21.
Planning and Zoning Board
Meeting Minutes - August 2, 1995
Page 5
6. New Business
A. Comprehensive Plan Amendment to eliminate certain Collector Roads and
Transportation Impact Fees.
It was the consensus of the Board to table discussion of the above until the new Board member is
present.
Chairperson Hoffmann asked that a notice of the August 16, 1995 meeting be sent to all
Planning and Zoning Board members before the agenda and minutes are ready so they will have
sufficient advance notice.
7. Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 8:05 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
~~
Shirley A Frankhouser,
Administrative Secretary
Prepared August 4, 1995
The next scheduled meeting of the Planning and Zoning Board will be held Wednesday,
August 16, 1995 at 7:00 P.M.
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
III. A.
OLD BUSINESS
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT TO ELIMINATE CERTAIN
COLLECTOR ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION IMPACT FEES.
STAFF REPORT:
BACKGROUND:
The City Commission at its July 10th regular meeting acted to
request the Planning and zoning Board (in its capacity as the Local
Planning Agency) to make recommendation on a possible comprehensive
plan amendment to delete from the Comprehensive Plan various
proposed collector roads and reconsideration of the Transportation
Impact Fee.
In the city's Comprehensive Plan, Volume 1 of 2, the Traffic
Circulation Element contains both text and maps (TC-F4 and TC-F6)
that indicate certain proposed collector roads:
* winter springs Loop
Traversing along the north side of S.R. 434, extending
from S.R. 419 to S.R. 434 west of Brantley Road. This
road would have four entrances onto S.R. 434.
* Shore Road Extension
From Sailfish Road through Panama Road southward just
east of Fisher Road to Lake Drive.
* Panama Road Extension
From the intersection of Panama Road and Shore road
eastward to Tuskawilla Road.
ANALYSIS:
Roads:
Staff has reviewed the above proposed collector roads in relation
to the City'S existing road network, where development has and is
occurring since the adoption year of the Comprehensive Plan, and
traffic volumes. The projected development and traffic volumes
will not likely be realized to require the construction of the
winter springs Loop or the Shore Road Extension.
It should also be noted that the Early Property is now being
developed as a residential subdivision. The Shore road Extension
would run through the west portion of this subdivision.
The Panama Road Extension is slated only as a Corridor Study in
Table TC-T9 of the Comprehensive Plan under "Year 1997 Recommended
Improvements". For purposes of alignment, and to avoid the lake
and the city's sanitary sewage facility spray fields, staff
suggests that this road extension continue eastward from Bahama
road rather than Panama Road.
Fundinq:
The winter Springs Loop is proposed to be partially built with the
City's Transportation Impact Fee, while the Shore Road Extension,
and the Panama Road Extension are both proposed to be funded
totally by the impact fee. It should also be noted that Panama
Road between Moss Road and Shore Road is slated for improvement
(after 1996) with funding coming from the City's Transportation
Impact Fee.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
staff recommends that the P & Z Board (acting in its capacity as
the Local Planning Agency) recommend the desirability to delete
from the text and maps of the Comprehensive Plan the winter Springs
Loop, and the Shore Road Extension, and the extension of the road
eastward from Bahama Road rather than from Panama Road.
In view of the staff recommendation to delete the above roads,
staff recommends consideration of an adjustment or perhaps
elimination of the city's Transportation Impact Fee as indicated in
Policy 1, Objective A of the Traffic Circulation Element of the
comprehensive Plan and Sec. 9-386.1 through 212 of the City Code.
A study should be done to find out the effects of such a adjustment
or elimination of the impact fees on other proposed road
improvements indicated in the Comprehensive Plan.
It should be noted that amendments to delete the Shore Road
Extension and possible elimination of the Transportation Impact Fee
may prompt a strong challenge from the Florida Department of
Community Affairs when the proposed amendments are transmitted to
them for their review.
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cn
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
Community Development
PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
III. B.
OLD BUSINESS
UPDATE/DISCUSSION OF LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS
STATUS REPORT
STAFF REPORT:
BACKGROUND:
The Planning and Zoning Board [sitting as the Local Planning Agency
in its review of the draft Land Development Regulations (LDRs)]
discussed with Mr. Fred Goodrow on May 17th the suggested changes
at the April 19th P & Z Meeting. Mr. Goodrow revised the draft
LDRs in response to the discussion at the May 17th meeting. This
revised draft was sent out to the P & Z Board members in their July
5th agenda packet.
STATUS:
NOTE:
According to the Consultant Agreement with the City, Fred
will:
*
Attend three (3) meetings of the P & Z Board to assist
the Board in its deliberations on the amendments. (Fred
attended two meetings at this point)
*
will prepare a new draft incorporating the Board's
recommendations for a Public Hearing.
*
Attend one (1) public hearing and one concluding work
session of the P & Z Board.
REMINDER:
PLEASE BRING YOUR LATEST DRAFT OF THE LDRS (DATED JUNE 24, 1995)
WITH YOU TO THE AUGUST 16TH MEETING.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
EVALUATION AND APPRAISAL REPORTS (EABS}
Marla Abadal Cahill
Department 01 Community Affairs
Introduction
The Department of Community Affairs is designated by law as the state land
planing agency. The DMsion of Resource Planning and Management is responsible for
administering Rorida's Growth Management Laws for the Department. The local
government comprehensive planning (LGCP) program (Chapter 163, Rorida Statutes)
requires local governments to guide growth, control future development through the
adoption of a comprehensive plan to ensure a high quality of life for the citizens of the
state.
-
Each of the 467 local governments in the State have adopted local comprehensive
plans. Nearly 96% of the plans are in compliance with the requirements of the 1985
Growth Management Act. With the passage of Chapter 93-206, Laws of Rorida (ELMS
III Legislation), the Legislature substantially revised the growth management laws to
enhance the local planning program as a prelude to the termination of the Development
of Regional Impact (DRI) program in eligible jurisdictions. Section 163.3191, F.S., reflects
the intent of the state legislature that local planning should be a continuous and ongoing
process. As part of this process a local government should periodically assess the
success or failure of its comprehensive plan to adequately address changing conditions
and to update the plan to reflect changes in state policy on planning and growth
management.
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The DMsion restructured its program responsibilities as a result of these revised
growth management laws. The traditional review functions previously contained within the
Bureau of Local Planning and the Bureau of State Planning are now combined into the
new Bureau of Local Planning. The new Bureau of Local Planning has three regional
sections for administering the local plan review, Area of Critical State Concern (ACSC)
and DRI programs. Each section is responsible for a particular geographic area of the
state, corresponding to the state's eleven regional planning councils. -
Content of the EAR
Section 163.3191 (2), F.S., lists the major components of an evaluation and
appraisal report (EAR). The EAR should address, at a minimum, the following:
(a) major problems of development and physical deterioration, and the location
of land uses and the social and economic effects of such uses;
(b) the condition of the plan when it was first adopted and its condition at the
date of the EAR;
93
(c) a comparison of plan objectives with actual results at the date of the EAR;
(d) unanticipated and unforeseen problems and opportunities which may have
occurred since the plan was adopted;
(e) the effect on the plan of changes in state law and regulations, as well as the
appropriate strategic regional policy plan;
(1) the need for new actions to be taken to address the planning issues
identified in the EAR;
(g) plan amendments necessary to implement the needs identified in the EAR;
and
(h) a description of the public participation process used during preparation of
the EAR.
In addition, s.163.3191 (3), F.S., requires that the EAR identify changes needed to
update the plan, including revised objectives, policies and standards. Section 163.3191 (6-
)(a) specifies that the EAR must also include findings and recommendations regarding
items (a) through (h), listed above. Section 163.3131 (6) (b), F.S., also states that the EAR-
based amendment must be consistent with and implement the findings and
recommendations of the EAR.
Due Dates: When to Prepare an EAR
Section 163.3191 (1), F.S., indicates that, as a general requirement, the EAR must
be prepared at least once every 5 years. Section 163.3191 (5), F.S., specifies that the first
EAR must be prepared no later than 7 years after adoption of the comprehensive plan for
local governments with a population greater than 2,500 residents. After this initial EAR,
additional EARs must be prepared at least every 5 years.
However, for local governments with fewer than 2,500 residents (as specified in the
1992 Population Estimates of the Executive Office of the Governor), Section 163.3191 (7),
F.S., permits the initial EAR to be prepared within 12 years after adoption of their
comprehensive plan and at least every 10 years thereafter. . . .
Rule Chapter 9J-33, F.A.C., establishes the schedule for when the EAR must be
adopted by the local governing body. Three months prior to the dates included in the
schedule, the local planning agency must transmit the draft EAR to the local governing
body and to DCA. The schedule is arranged so that some or all of the municipalities
within a county will submit their EAR in the same month as the county. The schedule
provides that the first EARs should be adopted by November 1, 1995 and that the EAR
adoption process will continue through February 1, 2004.
94
EAR Preparation and Adoption Process
Role of the Local Planning Agency: Section 163.3191 (4)J F.S., and Rule 9J-5.0053J
F.A.C'J establishes the process for the preparation and adoption of an EAR. In
accordance with the schedule in Rule Chapter 9J-33 , F.A.C., the proposed EAR is
prepared by the local planning agency (LP A) and sent to the 10caJ governing body for
adoption.
The public participation procedures included in the community's comprehensive
plan must be followed by the LP A during the preparation and transmittal of the proposed
EAR. If an early EAR has been preparedJ then the LP A must transmit an EAR addendum
consistent with the Rule Chapter 9J-33J F.AC'J schedule.
Role of the Local Governing Body: Within 90 days of receiving the proposed EAR
from the LP A, the local governing body must adopt, or adopt with changesJ the proposed
EAR. Adoption may be by ordinance or resolution (see Rule 9J-5.0053(3)(g)J F.A.C.).
Within 10 days after adoptionJ three copies are to be submitted to DCA. At a minimum,
the public participation procedures included in the communityJs comprehensive plan must
be followed by the local governing body during the adoption of the EAR. If an early EAR
has been adopted, then the locaJ governing body must adopt and submit an addendum.
If the locaJ governing body fails to adopt the EAR or addendum by the established
due dateJ then it is prohibited from amending its comprehensive plan until it does adopt
an EAR or addendum that the Department determines is sufficient.
Role of the Department of Community Affairs: Within 30 days of receipt of an
adopted EAR or addendumJ DCA will review the adopted report to determine its
sufficiency. The sufficiency review is designed to determine whether the report was
adopted in a timely manner and whether it addresses all the requirements of s.163.3191 J
F,S'J and Rule 9J-5.0053, F.A.C.
As mentioned above, an adopted EAR must address all new statutory and rule
changes that have occurred since the plan was originally adopted. The applicable
statutes and rules are Rule Chapter 9J-5J F.A.C'J Chapter 163J F.S., Chapter 187J F,S'J
and the applicable comprehensive (or strategic) regional policy plan. The EAR must
assess the effect of changes in these statutes and rules' on- the plan and make
recommendations for needed EAR-based amendments to address new requirements.
The recommendations in the EAR must be specific enough to indicate the types of new
objectives and policies that should be included in the EAR-based amendment to address
all current rule requirements. This level of specificity is needed in the EAR in order to be
able to determine whether or not the EAR-based amendment is consistent with and
implements the findings and recommendations of the EAR.
The adopted EAR may not postpone addressing new requirements which are in
effect on the date. of submittal of the adopted EAR. The only requirements that may be
postponed are those for which the statute establishes a specific date of preparation (such
as the revised Intergovernmental Coordination Element).
95
-
In the adopted EAR, data and analysis summaries must describe the current
condition of the plan, based on the most current information available at the time of the
EAR. These data are existing data that are the most current available, not original data
collected specifically for the EAR. In the EAR, the local government must respond to and
react appropriately to any currently available data that was not available when the plan
was originally adopted.
These summaries of data and analysis must describe changed conditions for each
element of the plan based on current Rule Chapter 9J-5, F.A.C., requirements. If the
original plan did not address a specific requirement (for example, because of an absence
of data and analysis) and if data are now available to address this requirement, then the
EAR must address and respond appropriately to such currently available data
An EAR may be found insufficient if currently available data are not used to
describe current conditions within a community, consistent with the data and analysis
requirements of Rule Chapter 9J-5, F.A.C., and used as the basis of evaluating the
effectiveness of the plan.
Failure to Adopt a Sufficient EAR
If DCA determines that an adopted EAR or addendum does not sufficiently meet
the provisions of s.163.3191, F.S., or if the local government fails to adopt an EAR or
addendum by the scheduled due date, then the local government may not amend it
comprehensive plan until DCA determines that the EAR or addendum is sufficient See
s.163.3187(5), F.S. At the scheduled due date, however, local governments may not
propose any amendments, except for EAR-based amendments which incorporate EAR
recommendations, until the EAR becomes sufficient.
Sufficiency Review by DCA
If the EAR is not sufficient because it does not meet the requirements of Rule 9J-
5.0053, F.A.C., then the EAR Sufficiency Report prepared by DCA will point out the areas
of insufficiency and recommend corrections. This review will be completed within 30 days
of receipt of the adopted EAR.
Section 163.3191 (10), F.S., permits DCA to delegate the' sufficiency review to the
appropriate regional planning council. If the review is delegated,Jhen a local government
may choose to have the RPC, rather than DCA, conduct the review. In order to
implement the delegation process, DCA must adopt a rule to ensure that the reviews are
carried out in a uniform and adequate manner. In addition, DCA must retain oversight
for any delegation of review to a regional planning council.
EAR-based Amendments (General)
Sections 163.3191 (4) and (6)(b) , F.S., require the comprehensive plan to be
amended based upon the findings and recommendations in the EAR. Section
163.3191 (4), F.S., states that the amendment must be adopted within one (1) year after
96
the EAR is adopted. The proposed plan amendment and the adopted EAR may be
submitted simultaneously to DCA for review. If these two actions do not occur simulta-
neously, then the EAR must include a schedule for adoption of the amendments within
one year after the EAR is adopted.
The statute permits the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to grant a six-
month extension for the adoption of plan amendments. The locaf governing body must
request the extension and the request must be supported by good and sufficient cause.
The EAR-based amendment must meet all rule and statute requirements in effed as of
the date of submittal of the proposed amendment
As with any other amendment, internal consistency within the plan must be
maintained. Maintaining internal consistency may require changes throughout the plan
in order to maintain internal consistency while implementing the finding and
recommendations of the EAR.
The proposed amendment must be consistent with and implement the recommen-
dations contained in the adopted EAR. If the proposed amendment does not incorporate
an EAR recommendation, then the plan amendment support document must explain why
the recommendation is not incfuded in the proposed amendment If an EAR recommen-
dation is not addressed in the proposed amendment and an adequate explanation is not
provided in plan amendment support document, then the Department's Objections,
Recommendations and Comments (ORC) Report may raise objections.
As with any other amendment, the proposed EAR-based amendment must be sup-
ported by and consistent with appropriate and relevant data and analysis. If the EAR and
EAR-based amendment are submitted simultaneously, the data and analysis which
supports the amendment may be in the EAR, or in the plan amendment support docu-
ment, or in the data and analysis portion of the comprehensive plan. Thus, data and
analysis in an EAR-based amendment may be used to satisfy a sufficiency requirement
in Rule 9J-5.0053, F.AC.
EAR-based amendments are reviewed for compliance with the requirements of Rule
Chapter 9J-5, Chapter 163, F.S., and consistency with the State Comprehensive Plan and
the applicable Comprehensive (Strategic) Regional Policy Plan~
. .
Section 163.3184(7), F.S., allows the locaf government 120 days from receipt of
DCA's Objections, Recommendations and Comments (ORC) Report to adopt the EAR-
based amendment.
When an interagency hazard mitigation report is prepared in response to a
Presidential Disaster Declaration, s.163.3191 (13), F.S., permits its recommendations, as
deemed appropriate by the local government, to be adopted as part of the EAR-based
amendment.
97
EAR-based Amendments (Small Communities)
The statute recognizes that a municipality with less than 5,000 residents or a
county with fewer than 50,000 residents may have limited resources to devote to the
preparation of an EAR-based amendment. Section 163.3191 (12), F.S., permits DCA to
enter into a written agreement with such communities so that they can focus planning
resources on selected issues or elements when updating their plan.
If an eligible community wishes to enter into such an agreement with DCA, then
the EAR should include such a request. DCA will evaluate the request. The following
factors will be considered during the evaluation: 1) population growth rate and change
in land area since plan adoption; 2) extent of vacant that is developable or vested; 3) the
need for redevelopment; 4) the extent to which public facilities are supplied by providers
other than the loca! government; 5) past performance in local plan implementation; 6)
presence of state or regionally significant natural resources and 7) infrastructure backlog.
If DCA agrees to the loca! government's request, then an agreement will be
prepared specifying the portions of the plan that will be updated by a plan amendment.
Within 18 months after the plan is updated consistent with the agreement, the remaining
portions of the plan that were not updated must be updated consistent with the finding
and recommendations of the EAR. The statute also requires (sub-section (d)) that the
plan be updated in full when the population exceeds the thresholds mentions above.
DCA's decision to enter into an agreement with a loca! government to target its
planning resources (or to modify or terminate an agreement) shall be subject to the
administrative hearing process upon petition by an affected person.
In addition, sub-section (e) specifies that all local governments must update their
Future Land Use, Intergovernmental Coordination, Conservation, and Capita!
Improvements elements. The Coastal Management Element must also be updated,
unless it can be shown that all of a community's coastal lands are publically owned or
managed, there is no publtc access to coastal lands and there is no existing or planned
development in coastal lands.
Failure to Adopt an EAR-based Amendment
, .
If the plan is not amended in a timely and sufficient manner to implement the
recommendations and finding of the EAR, then the Administration Commission may
impose the sanctions provided by s.163.3184(11). These sanctions may be imposed only
after DCA initiates a s. 120.57(1) administrative hearing process ~n which an affected
person may intervene), a hearing has been conducted, and the hearing officer has
submitted a recommended order to the Administration Commission. Any imposed
sanctions would begin after a final order has been issued by the Administration
Commission and a reasonable period of time has been allowed for the local government
to adopt plan amendments consistent with the final order.
98
DCA Grants Assistance Program
The 1994 State Legislature appropriated $1.8 million to DCA to assist local govern-
ments with the preparation of the initial draft of portions of the EAR, for those EARs
required to be submitted by July 1, 1996 pursuant to Rule Chapter 9J-33, F.A.C. The
amount of funds available to each of the 89 affected local governments under this
programs is $20,224. The adopted EARs for these local governr:nents are due between
November 1, 1995 and July 1, 1996 (see Rule 9J-33.005(1)-(9), F.A.C.).
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The Department recognizes that the funding received by local governments under
this grant program constitute only a portion of the actual costs associated with the
development, completion and adoption of the EAR and that the work products being
contracted for constitutes only a portion of the requirements necessary for completion of
a sufficient EAR. The Department will continue to request appropriations from the
Legislature for funding to assist local governments whose EARs are due after July 1 t
1996.
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FLORIDA LEGISLATURE
ENACTS
PRIVATE PROPERTY
RIGHTS PROTECTION
ACT
By: Tom Pelham
Apgar, Pelham, Pfeiffer & Theriaque
The Florida Legislature, in
the closing days of the 1995 Session,
enacted the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private
Property Rights Protection Act. Rep-
resentative Harris has been the chief
sponsor and advocate of what many
regarded as extreme private property
rights legislation. The new Act is
based in part on the product of a
working group of various interests,
including the Florida Chapter of the
American Planning Association
_ (FAPA), and incorporates the vested
rights concept advocated by FAPA.
Unfortunately, one day before pas-
sage of the Act, the Governor's Of-
fice, key legislators, and lobbyists for
large landowner interest agreed to a
controversial amendment (the "Hop-
ping/Chiles amendment") which ex-
pands the coverage of the Act t';) in-
clude non-vested property interest.
In highly irregular fashion, legisla-
tion creating the new Act did not re-
ceive a single public hearing before
any House committee prior to addi-
tion of the referenced amendment;
instead, it was rushed to a floor vote
in the House, which passed it unani-
mously, and to the full Senate, which
passed it with only one dissenting
vote.
The private property rights
issue has been very divisive and con-
~- troversial over recent years. In the
face of several Draconian legislative
proposals, including another pro-
posed constitutional amendment,
several legislators and representa-
tives of the Governor's Office con-
vened a meeting of a broad range of
concerned organizations early in the
1995 legislative session. At this
meeting, which was attended by
Senator Rick Dantzler and Represen-
tatives Ken Pruitt and Bert Harris, as
well as the Governor's General
Counsel, a draft proposal based upon
protecting existing actual land uses
and vested property rights was of-
fered as a possible vehicle for com-
promise. After numerous organiza-
tions, including FAPA, indicated they
could support this approach, a work-
ing group was formed to finalize the
proposal, as chaired by DCA Secre-
tary Linda Shelley. Senator Dantzler
and Representative Dean Saunders,
sponsors of separate legislation on a
proposed property rights mediation
process, participated in the working
group. Their proposed Florida Land
Use and Environmental Dispute
Resolution Act was later added to the
working draft. Throughout the work-
ing group's sessions, Secretary
Shelley and others-including FAPA,
the Cities, the Counties, and environ-
mental group representatives-in-
sisted that the scope of the Private
Property Rights Protection Act be
limited to actual existing land uses
and vested property interest. How-
ever, late in the process, attorney
Wade Hopping proposed to several
in the work group that coverage of
the Act be expanded to include what
many perceive to be as purely specu-
lative land interest. Secretary
Shelley and others emphatically re-
jected this proposal. According to
the Secretary, the Administration was
only agreeing to support a bill that
protected existing land uses and
vested property rights.
However, only one day be-
fore passage of the new Act, the
Governor's Office and the legislators
mentioned above, apparently reached
agreement, without any consultation
with many of the participants in the
working group, to an amendment
which greatly expands the coverage
of the Act and raises serious concerns
about its potential impact.
What did this process pro-
duce? The Private Property Rights
Protection Act creates a new cause
of action where if a state, regional or
local governmental entity "inordi-
nately burdens" an existing use of
real property or a vested right to a
specific use of real property, the
property owner may sue in court for
compensation for the actual loss to
the fair market value of the property.
The original version of the bill de-
fined "existing use" as "an actual,
present use or activity on the real
property." The Hopping amendment
expanded the term "existing use" to
include any reasonably foreseeable,
non-speculative, and suitable land
uses for real property which are
"compatible with adjacent land uses
and which have created an existing
fair market value in the property
greater than the fair market value of
the actual, present use." Despite the
use of the term "non-speculative,"
this definition is so broad and vague
as to include land uses which are not
actual, vested, or even within the
contemplation of the landowner.
Years of litigation will probably be
required to determine the meanings
of the Hopping amendment.
The Act defines "inordinate
burden" as any action of governmen-
tal entities which directly restricts the
use of property so that the property
owner is permanently unable to re-
alize a reasonable investment-backed
expectation for the existing use or a
vefled right or so that the landowner
is left with such unreasonable uses
-of the property that the owner must
uear "permanently a disproportion-
ate share of a burden imposed for the
good of the public, which in fairness
should be born by the public at
large." Although it uses language
typically employed by courts in re-
solving takings claims, the Act ex-
pressly states that it "provides a cause
of action for governmental actions
that may not rise to the level of a tak-
ing under the State Constitution or
the United States Constitution."
The Act establishes an impor-
tant prerequisite to filing suit in court.
At least 180 days prior to filing suit,
the landowner must present its writ-
ten claim, accompanied with a valid
appraisal demonstrating the loss in
fair market value, to the heads of the
governmental entities involved.
~_ During the 100-day pre-suit period,
the governmental entities involved
must make a written settlement of-
fer which may include a broad range
of alternatives, including approval of
some or all of the proposed develop-
ment, transfer of development rights,
purchase of some or all of the prop-
erty, or reaffirmation of the govern-
mental entity's original action. If the
landowner accepts the offer, then a
settlement agreement between the
governmental entity and landowner
is effectuated. If the settlement of-
fer is not accepted by the property
owner, the govemmental entity must,
within the 180-day period, issue a
written ripeness decision specifying
the uses to which the property may
be put. This ripeness decision shall
constitute the last prerequisite to ju-
dicial review of the governmental
action under the new Act.
If the property owner files
suit under the new Act, the circuit
court must determine whether the
governmental action has inordinately
burdened an existing use or vested
right to a specific use of the real prop-
erty. After the court has determined
that an inordinate burden has been
imposed on property, and following
resolution of any interlocutory appeal
of that determination, the court must
impanel a jury to determine the total
amount of compensation to be
awarded to the property owner. The
prevailing party is entitled to recover
reasonable cost and attorney's fees.
The second section of the
new private property rights legisla-
tion is called the "Florida Land Use
and Environmental Dispute Resolu-
tion Act." It is based on the recom-
mendations of the Governor's Private
Property Rights Study Commission.
Essentially, this Act creates a glori-
fied system of mediation. However,
rather than mandating mediation
through the use of mediators who are
in abundant supply, the Act creates
an unnecessary bureaucracy of spe-
cial masters, a hybrid mediator/judge
specie. Any owner who believes that
a development order or an enforce-
ment action unreasonably or unfairly
burdens its real property may request
relief from the governmental entities
involved. Before requesting relief,
the owner must exhaust all non-ju-
diciallocal government administra-
tive appeals provided such appeals
take no longer than four months.
Request for relief must be filed with
the head of the governmental entity
involved which is required to refer
the request to a special master agreed
upon by the governmental entity and
the landowner. Within fifteen days
after the filing of the request for re-
lief, the governmental entity must file
a response to the request with the
special master.
The special master must hold
an informal hearing which does not
require the use of an attorney within
45 days of receiving the request for
relief. Acting as a mediator, the spe-
cial master must first try to facilitate
a resolution of the conflict between
the government and the landowner.
If mediation is unsuccessful, the spe-
cial master must then determine
whether the governmental action is
unreasonable or unfairly burdens the
landowner's property. The special
master must prepare and file a writ-
ten recommendation within 14 days
after conclusion of the hearing. If
the special master determines if the
governmental action is unreasonable
or unfairly burdensome, he or she
may recommend to the governmen-
tal entity alternative courses of ac-
tion which provide for lesser re-
straints on use of the landowner's
property. However, the special
master's recommendation is not
binding on any party if the govern-
mental entity rejects the recommen-
dation or if it accepts the recommen-
dation and the landowner rejects it,
the governmental entity must issue a
written decision within thirty days
that describes the specific uses avail-
able to the real property. This writ-
ten decision shall constitute the last
prerequisite to judicial action.
The Florida Land Use and
Environmental Dispute Resolution
Act does not create a new cause of
action in court. Moreover, the spe-
cial master's recommendation is not
binding on anyone. However, it may
serve as data in support of a compre-
hensive plan or comprehensive plan
amendment. Any plan amendment
necessary to effectuate a special
master's recommendation is exempt
from the twice-a-year limitation on
plan amendments.
This bill will apply to regulations adopted on
or after May 12, 1995. The Dispute Resolu-
tionAct will take effect October 1,1995.
" ..
August 28, 1995
To:
Planning and Zoning Board a
Land Management specialis@'1
From:
Re:
Agenda Item, Planning and Zoning Board Meeting September 6, 1995
SALA, Inc. Request to alter Final Development Plan per Section 20-359
SALA, Inc. has made request to change the density ofMt. Greenwood Tract 5 from 187
townhouses to 143 single-family units. Final Engineering for Tract 5 was originally approved by
the City Commission on July 28, 1986. The last correspondence on this tract was in March 1990,
addressing an "as-built" inspection. This is about the time that Magnolia, the original developer
of Mt. Greenwood encountered financial problems. The property was taken over by Resolution
Trust Corporation. Since approximately 1991, there has been some interest shown in completing
the development of the property - to no avail. This is the first serious consideration given to the
project.
,,"-
Section 20-359 allows the Board, if their finding is that the proposed change is substantially
consistent with the approved final development plan, to approve or approve with modifications
the proposed change. If the change is found not to be consistent, then the City Commission must
consider the request at a public hearing. The Board may, for just cause, hold a public hearing on
the request (as per Section 20-358).
Attached for you review are the following::
I) Commission Meeting Minutes of July 28, 1986
2) overall site plan for townhouses
3) proposed change for 143 single-family units
4) area location map
5) Staff Review Minutes and Staff Comments of August 22, 1995
The Staff recommended approval for the change, with the stipulations mentioned during the
meeting and the comments correspondence
,r.-
August 24, 1995
To:
General Services Director
Staff ~
Land Management Specialist V-
I
From:
Re:
Staff Review
Mt. Greenwood Tract 5
Proposed Relotting
The above referenced was held on August 22, 1995. Representing the project were H. Sabeti and
R. Bradick. Staff members present were Grimms, Houck, Jenkins, Ketteringham, Lallathin,
LeBlanc and Taylor.
The request is to change the density from 187 townhouse units to 143 single family units. 49 of
the units will be similar to the patio home concept, 22 will be placed in a duplex type
- configuration, and 72 units will be placed in a quadraplex configuration (similar to the DeerSong
Subdivision). All units are detached.
This request is considered under Section 20-359 of the Code of Ordinances - Alterations to the
final development plan. The Staff recommends to the Planning and Zoning Board. If the
Planning and Zoning Board finds that this action is substantially consistent with the approved final
development plan, the Board may approve, or approve with modifications, the proposed changes.
Attached are all the Staff comments provided at the meeting. Some of these comments can be
addressed in the Deed Restrictions for the property.
Motion made by Grimms that the request be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Board with
recommendation for approval. Second by LaIlathin. All voted aye.
.MKMOR-\.l\IDUlVI
TO:
Don LeBlanc, Land Management Specialist
Don Houck. Building Official YJ k./;}.L--
FRON!:
RE:
Re-Letting Of Tract 5 Mt. Greenwood
DATE:
August 23, 1995
If this is to follow the same Sl:t:nario as Dl;t:r Song tht: following \;on\;ems will need
to he considered in the final design:
-
1. Since all models ..vill be three bedroom there should be more than two
parking spaces per unit.
2. Provision needs to bt: made for homeO'wners to have access to all areas of
their home.
3. Particular attention needs to be given to the drainage design around the
homt:s.
D\VH:alll
DWHland0010
August 23, 1995
TO: Land Management Specialist,
Donald LeBlanc
FROM: City Engineer, ~~
Mark L. Jenkins, P.E.
SUBJECT: Mount Greenwood Tract 5 - Resurrection (Re-Lotting) by
Sala, Inc.
The following comments and/or concerns relate to the proposed
completion of the subject site, that has been dormant since 1990:
1. The last correspondence I can find in my files on this
si te is an "as-bui 1 t" deficiency 1 et ter from the previous City
Engineer to Bowyer-Singleton, dated March 15, 1990. (copy
attached) Bowyer-Singleton will need to answer the comments
in that letter, since we did not receive a response at that
time. I recommend that they discuss each of those outstanding
items with me prior to attempting a repair.
2. I understand that this site never received final
acceptance by the City Commission as being completed per the
approved engineering plans.
3. As soon as Sala, Inc. obtains ownership of the subject
parcel they will need to start paying the appropriate
stormwater fee.
4. The site will need a follow-up "as-built" inspection
since one was never done after the deficiencies of the March
15, 1990 letter were noted. I do not know if those noted
deficiencies were corrected. The condi tion of the existing
infrastructure, after 5'years dormant, will need to be field
veri fied. Storm structures and piping, sani tary piping,
condition of pavement, restriping, etc. According to the Fire
Chief, the fire hydrants have been receiving flow checks every
6 months since installed.
5. As required in 9-241 of the Land Development Code, lot
grading will need to comply with the 1.25 and 1.50 percent
slope for drainage. There must be spot elevations on the
revised pI ans to provide this. Proper grading around the
building pads will need to be shown. Recommendation:
Capturing roof runoff and piping to a storm inlet or manhole
will help alleviate a lot of yard flooding.
6. Is a perimeter wall planned for this site?
attachment: March 15, 1990 letter from Kozlov to Bowyer-Singleton
cc: City Manager
Utility Director
Building Official
~
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.~
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
11 2!3 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708
Telephone (407) 327-1800
March 15, 1990
FILE COpy
Mr. Chuck R. Burdick, P.E.
Boyer Singleton and Associates, Inc.
520 South Magnolia Avenue
Orlando, FL 32801
RE:-'-- Mt':- GreenwOcd ~'TracF ~5,"'uIi.i i- (5 -
Dear Mr. Burdick:
On March 8, 1990, an "as-built" inspection was made of the site and the
following discrepancies were noted.
FIRE HYDRANTS ,
No visible cut off valves were noted for the following locations:
1. West of the North end of "A" street.
2. At the South end of "B" street.
3. South of the North end of "B" street.
4. East of the West end of street "0".
5. At the curve in street "E".
6. At the East end of street "F".
Please note that the fire hydrant cut off valves need to be adjacent to
the hydrant, mounted in concrete and not in the pavement.
PARKING SPACES
Street "A"
. . 7. End space, in front of Unit 1, is nine (9) feet wide.
8. End space, in front of Unit 43, is 8.6 feet wide.
9. End space, in front of Unit 38, is 9.6 feet wide.
-
10. End space, in front of Unit 17, is 9.1 feet wide.
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Mr. Chuck R. Burdick, P.E.
March 14, 1990
Page 2
,-
11. End space, in front of Unit 18, is 9.8 feet wide.
12. End space, in front of Unit 22, is 9.2 feet wide.
Street "B"
13. Space in front of Unit 51 has missing concrete wheel stop.
14. End space in front of Unit 61 is 8.2 feet wide.
Street "0"
15. End space in front of Unit 143 is 8.9 feet wide.
16. End space in front of Unit 131 is 9.4 feet wide.
The parking spaces are required to be 200 sq. ft. (10 x 20). It will be
necessary to adjust these parking _spaces accordingly. In addition, it is noted
that there are no handicap spaces provided. It will be necessary to do so.
The handicap spaces are to be 12 ft. x 20 ft. .
GENERAL
-
17. The eastern most storm inlet on street "0" has sand in it and needs to
be cleaned out.
18. A valve cover is missing in the pavement at the intersection of
streets "0" and "E".
19. Two ( 2 ) underdrains were noted as discharging into the storm inlet
near the middle of street "E". We need to know where these drains are placed.
There are no underdrains specified on the engineering drawings.
20. There were several unplugged corings in the parking areas. Please
fill them with concrete.
21 ~. It may be necessary to provide a fence between the East end of street
"0" and Dolphin Road to discourage traffic from using this as an entrance to
the project..
. .22:', There needs to be a fence at the end of street "B" where it meets Gee
Creek. , ,There is an abrupt steep grade at this location down to Gee Creek.
'Ple~eprovide on the engineering drawing.
"
;:23" ,:There is a pile of debris at the end of street "B" where it meets Gee
cr~.,~t needs to be removed.
: ~ ,~~:/,:' There is an eroded area adjacent to the center stormwater out-fall
intq}p::md 5 (mitered end section). This needs back filling to grade.
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Mr. Chuck R. Burdick, P.E.
March 14, 1990
Page 3
25. The width of the driveway, excluding parking space, in front of Unit
21 on street "A" is only 23.7 feet. The engineering drawing requires 24 feet.
Please correct this deficiency.
26. The width of street "B" between Units 55 and 88 is only 23.5 feet.
The engineering drawing requires 24 feet. Please correct this defiCiency.
27. Please provide street names as per Section 9-156 and Section 9-298 of
the Land Developnent Code.
28. Please fill out, sign, seal, date, and return the enclosed "Letter of
Certification" on your letter head stationery.
. 29. Reference to "General Notes", number 11; compaction in non-roadway
areas needs to be a minimum of 95% of a modified proctor. .
30. Please provide test pills from various locations of the soil cement.
It is designated as "B", "c" and "0" in parking and drive, but there is no way
to reference the locations on the site plan. Please provide this information.
31.
coring.
Please provide the specific thickness or depth of each soil cement
Average depths of the base are not acceptable.
32. What is the specific thickness of the asphalt overlay at different
locations on the project? Please provide.
Please respond to each of the preceding items in writing. If you have any
questions, please contact this office.
Attachment
MJ/LTK/mh
cc: Ci ty Manager
Land Developnent Coordinator
Building Department
"
FIRE DEPARTMENT
102 NORTH MOSS ROAD
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708
TELEPHONE (407) 327-2332
F1RE AND
RESCUE
SERVICES
MEMORANDUM
To: Donald LeBlanc, Land Management Specialist
From: Timothy J. Lallathin, Fire Chief 0~~;'
Date: August 22, 1995
Subject: Tract 5, Mt. Greenwood, Relotting
,
The Fire Department has reviewed the request for retotting Tract 5, Mt. Greenwood,
from 187 units to 143 units. The Fire Department has no objection tcRhis request, aGd
recommends approval.
No additional comments are needed at this time.
-
WINTER SPRINGS UTILITY I PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
August 21, 1995
110 NORTH FLAMINGO AVENUE
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708
Telephone (407) 327-2669
Fax (407) 327-0942
To: Land Management Specialist
From: Doug Taylor ij'1
Re: Purposed re-10tting of tract 5 Mt. Greenwood Subdivision
The following items will have to be done prior to the beginning of construction of any buildings if
this project is undertaken.
1. This project will be treated as a new development and therefore water and sewer
rates in effect at the time of the construction of the original project are no longer
in effect. As these are single family homes this project will require additional
water and sewer capacity.
2. All of the water services that will not be used will have to be turned off at the
roam.
3. Sewer laterals not being used will have to be cut off and caped at the curbs.
4. New construction drawings will submitted showing the location of all utilities
including the lines to be abandoned.
",.,-
MEMO FOR RECORD
August 22, 1995
From: Don LeBlanc, Land Management SPecialiS~
Re: Tract 5, Mt. Greenwood
Relotting
This item is to be considered under Section 20-359 of the Code of Ordinances - Alterations to the
final development plan. The Staff will review this and send their recommendations to the
Planning and Zoning Board. If the Board finds that this action is substantially consistent with the
approved final development plan, the Board may approve, or approve with modifications, the
proposed changes.
,..-
I find no objection to the proposed change. This property was under RTC jurisdiction and then
purchased. There has been scattered interest shown in this property, but this is the first time that
someone has taken the interest to this level.
If this change is approved, I recommend the following items be accomplished, provided the
concerned departments are in agreement:
I) verify that there is no increase in impervious area;
2) verify that the integrity of the streets/parking areas and the water and sewer system are
sound,
The infrastructure has been in place, without use, for about eight (8) years.
cc: Statf
SALA, Inc.
TO:
DON LEBLANC, LAND MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST
FROM:
CHARLES SEXTON, CHIEF OF POLICE
DATE:
AUGUST 21, 1995
SUBJ:
TRACT 5, M.T. GREENWOOD
86-95
I have reviewed the request for relotting Tract 5, Mt. Greenwood, from
187 Townhouse Units to 143 single family units. I recommend that this
request be approved.
~~
Charles Sexton
Chief of Police
CS/eds
.-
Community Development
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799
Telephone (407) 327-1800
l\1EMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
RE:
Don LeBlanc, Land Management Specialist
Thomas Grimms, AICP Community Development coordinato~-
August 21, 1995
Mount Greenwood Tract 5 - Proposed Relotting
After a review of the conceptual relotting Plan "A" - Tract 5, I
have not concerns or other comments at this time.
-
August 17, 1995
To:
General Services Director
Staff
Land Management SpeCialig
From:
Re:
Mt. Greenwood Tract 5
Proposed Relotting
Attached is additional information received by this office on the above referenced to be discussed
at the scheduled meeting of August 22, 1995.
. .
August 16, 1995
File No. MGW 1
VIA Hand Delivered
=NGINE=~ING
i=l L A i\J N : i'J G
SURVEYING
Mr. Donald LeBlanc
Managemen t Specialist
City of Winter Springs
1126 East State Road 434
Winter Springs, Florida
pCCJEIIW1EJD)
JAUS 1 7 1995
Subject:
Mount Greenwood
Tract 5
CITY OF WlNTER SPRINGS
Land Management _
Dear Don:
~
Our client, Sala, Inc. is proposing to complete the development and construction of Tract 5 at 1-Iount
Greenwood. This proposal is depicted on the conceptual site plans that were hand delivered to the
City, Tuesday, August 15, 1995. The conceptual site plan shows a total of 143 units. Of those units,
49 are detached single family lots, and 94 are either duplex or quadraplex patio units, which are on
the interior of the project. The single family lots will be 36-foot wide and a minimum of 85.foot deep
with 20-foot front setbacks, 15-foot rear setbacks, and 3-foot side setbacks. The single family units
will have a minimum separation of 6-feet. The duplex/quadraplex product will be a court yard
concept with 10.foot t.o 12.foot wide court yards separating t.he living areas. This is similar to the
product currently being const.ructed in DeerSong, Winter Springs.
The original Tract 5 design proposed 187 attached townhouse units. The proposed plan has a total
of 143 units, which is a reduction of 44 units. The reduction in units along with the elimination of
some asphalt parking in front of the single family lots creates a reduction in impervious area for the
project. The following table provides a comparison between the approved site plan and the proposed
site plan.
As Approved As Proposed
Description Acreage 01 Difference Acreage ~1>
.U
1. Improved area on lots 7.0 Ac 33% -2.4 4.6Ac 22%
2. Pavement 5.2 Ac 25% 0.3 4.9 Ac 23%
3. Ponds 2.9 Ac 14% -0.0 2.9 Ac 14%
4. Green/Open Space 6.0 Ac 28% +2.7 8.7 41%
2 1.1 Ac 100% 21. 1 Ac 100%
520 SOUTH MAGNOLIA AVE. . P.O. BOX 2769 . ORLANOO. FL 32802.2769 . (407) 843.5120 . FAX (407) 649-8664
~ ~
Mr. Don LeBlanc
August 16, 1995
Page Two
As you can see, the proposed site plan significantly reduces the impervious area from 72% to 59%.
For your use, enclosed are floor plans and elevations of the proposed product. This will provide you
with an idea of the type of units that are proposed.
If you need any further informa tion, please give me a call.
zelY, ~4~
- R~Bradick
Principal
RRB:skk
MGW16001
Enclosures
c: Hank Sabeti
FLOOR PLANS
The Summer Drum
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The Sun Dance
The 'O'f11ilter'(9real
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BED-RM-3
II '-o6'IQ~O"
AI: CXJW
DINING
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MASTER-BR
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The Uorizon- The "Horizon" is a true split plan home with
a centrally located .kitchen featuring volume ceiling. This
home lends itself perfectly to entertainment with the
island opening to the dining area and a good sized nook.
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GARAGE
The Overlook - A smart .3 bedroom home which offers
an eat:-in kitchen and great room. A 12 'x IS' master
bedroom complete with a walk-in closet compliment
this home. It comes complete with a garage.
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Regular Meeting, City Commission, July 28, 1986
Page 2
85-86-26
Request to vacate unimproved road west of Lot E, Chase & Co. Subdivision, etc.-
The School Board of Seminole County:
Motion was made by Commissioner Kulbes to deny the request to vacate the 25 ft.
strip based on the unknown fact of how property owners north of this site will
get access to their property. Seconded by Commissioner Hoffmann. Discussion.
Motion and second were withdrawn.
Re uest for Lot S lit of the West 375 ft. of Lot 1, Blk. C, Ranches Sec. l-Voekes:
Motion was made by Commissioner Kulbes to deny the request for lot split. Seconded
by Commissioner Hoffmann. Discussion. Vote on the motion: Commissioner Jacobs, no;
Commissioner Trencher, no; Commissioner Kaehler, aye; Commissioner Hoffmann, aye;
Commissioner Kulbes, aye; motion carried.
Mt. Greenwood Approval for Final Engineering Tract 5:
Motion was made by Commissioner Trencher that we approve Final Engineering for
Tract 5, subject to continued study and determination of requirement for underdrains
in the area and to instruct the City Engineer that if in fact underdrains and other
work is necessary, that it be included before any additional steps are taken.
Seconded by Commissioner Kulbes. Discussion. Vote on the motion: Commissioner
Trencher, aye; Commissioner Kaehler, aye; Commissioner Hoffmann, aye; Commissioner
Kulbes, aye; Commissioner Jacobs, aye; motion carried.
Oak Forest Unit 6 - Plat Approval:
Motion was made by Commissioner Hoffmann to approve Oak Forest Unit 6, Plat Approval
with the following exception to be resolved: drainage easements on lots backing to
roads and other property need to be 15 ft. versus 7.5 ft. Seconded by Commissioner
Jacobs. Discussion. Vote on the motion: Commissioner Kaehler, aye; Commissioner
Hoffmann, aye; Commissioner Kulbes, aye; Commissioner Jacobs, aye; Commissioner
Trencher, aye; motion carried.
First Reading of Ord. No. 346, annexation of the east 229.57 ft. of the south 398.78
ft. (measured at right angles) less the south 20 ft. for the right-of-way, Lot 56,
S rin Hammock, etc.-Seminole Count Board of Realtors:
Motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs: to read Ord. No. 346 by title only on first
reading. Seconded by Commissioner Tren~her. Discussion. Vote on the motion:
Commissioner Hoffmann, aye; Commissioner Kulbes, aye; Commissioner Jacobs, aye;
Commissioner Trencher, aye; Commissioner Kaehler, aye; motion carried.
Attorney Kruppenbacher read Ord. No. 346 by title only on first reading.
First Reading of Ord. No. 347, annexation of the west 90.32 ft. of Lot 7, Blk. A,
Johnson's Poultry Farm, etc.-C.J.Cromer:
Motion was made by Commissioner Kulbes to read Ord. No. 347 by title only on first
reading. Seconded by Commissioner Trencher. Discussion. Vote on the motion:
Commissioner Kulbes, aye; Commissioner Jacobs, absent; Commissioner Trencher, aye;
Commissioner Kaehler, aye; Commissioner Hoffmann, aye; motion carried.
Attorney Kruppenbacher read Ord. No. 347 by title only on first reading.
".--
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA
Planning and Zoning Board
1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434
WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708
Telephone (407) 327-1800
MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Zoning Board Members
FROM: Shirley A. Frankhouser, .;$/rf'
Recording Secretary ~
DATE: August 4, 1995
RE: Notice of upcoming Planning & Zoning
Board Meeting
At the request of Chairperson Hoffmann, I am sending you notice in advance, of the next
scheduled Planning and Zoning Board meeting.
The meeting minutes of August 2, 1995 is completed and will be mailed to you along with another
copy of the agenda, and Mr. Grimms reports. Also at the request of Chairperson Hoffmann, the
new Board members will receive Mr. LeBlanc's LDR comments dated April 5 and April 21, 1995
sent to Mr. Goodrow.
Please call me if you have any questions.
cc: Land Management Specialist
Community Development Coordinator
wp6.0\p&z\members