Venice Planning Commission Meeting - March 17, 2026

The Venice Planning Commission met on March 17, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing on a text amendment to clarify decision criteria, and comments from staff and commissioners. A new commissioner, Ms. Fresca, was welcomed by staff.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes of the March 3, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously (motion by Mr. Chair, second by Jerry).

Public Comments & Testimony

• Jim Collins, representing Boone Law Firm, spoke during the public hearing. He identified several issues with the proposed text amendment (Petition 26-08AM):
  • Suggested that drainage/flooding and ingress/egress criteria for zoning map amendments should be explicitly stated as applicable only to planned developments to avoid confusion.
  • Noted inconsistency: the change from "all applicable elements of the comprehensive plan" was not carried through all sections.
  • Recommended using the same compatibility language from section 4 and LDR section 2.1.2.C8 in criteria 1.83, instead of the current vague phrasing.
  • Argued that requiring compliance with Swift MUD requirements (in 1.94) may conflict with state law, as permits are not required at the application stage.
  • Criticized the term "adequate" in criteria 1.10.1.6 as too vague and contrary to the amendment's goal of clarity.
• Mr. Collins noted these comments were provided directly due to short notice, and he had not had prior chance to share them with staff.

Discussion Items

• Senior Planner Nicole Tremblay presented the text amendment, explaining that the changes aim to make decision criteria clearer, more connected to the code, and more defensible for denials. Key changes include:
  • Adding explicit references to wildlife/habitat protection assessments and stormwater management (city and Swift MUD requirements).
  • Rewording traffic criteria to focus on ingress/egress, internal circulation, and traffic safety/compatibility.
  • Removing overly general language such as "satisfactory provision and arrangement" and replacing with more specific criteria.
  • Adding a catch-all criteria for health, safety, and welfare.
• Commissioner Jasper raised a question about the difference between drainage/flooding criteria in 1.74 (zoning map amendment) and stormwater criteria in 1.94 (site plan). Staff clarified they apply to different petition types.
• Staff agreed with Mr. Collins' suggestions, noting they were reasonable, and indicated they would work with the city attorney to consider revisions before the item goes to city council.

Key Outcomes

• The Planning Commission voted unanimously (6-0; Mr. Ferlaghi absent) to recommend approval of Text Amendment 26-08AM to the City Council, with the understanding that staff would incorporate the discussed revisions prior to council consideration. The motion found the petition consistent with the comprehensive plan and in compliance with Florida Statute Chapter 163, Part II.
• The next meeting is scheduled for April 7, 2026, which will include election of officers, a possible presentation by the mayor, and a review of planning commission rules and procedures.
• Staff noted upcoming state legislation that may affect local planning and zoning, and welcomed Helen Moore as a new member of the Historic and Architectural Preservation Board.