Public Meetings - Venice, Florida

The Venice Planning Commission held a regular meeting on September 2, 2025, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered three quasi-judicial and legislative public hearings: a zoning map amendment for Grand Oaks, a height exception for a Flagship medical office building, and a text amendment to comply with new state law on final plat approvals. All three items were approved unanimously (6-0). No members of the public spoke during audience participation or on any agenda item. A brief interruption occurred due to a fire alarm. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the August 19, 2025 regular meeting were approved as presented (motion by Mr. Wilson, second by Mr. Hale, unanimous vote). Public Comments & Testimony - No general audience participation and no speakers signed up for any public hearing. Discussion Items 25-42RZ: Grand Oaks Zoning Map Amendment (Quasi-Judicial) - Staff (Brittany Smith) presented a request to rezone two parcels (60.44 acres) at 2100 and 2413 Knights Trail Road from CG (General Commercial) and CI (Industrial) to the Knights Trail Mixed-Use zoning district. The property, formerly known as Nicomas Groves, is in the Knights Trail neighborhood and has a Mixed-Use Corridor future land use designation. The applicant (Jackson R. Boone, Esq.) noted that the previous zoning was approved in 2022 prior to the new Land Development Code and that the rezoning aligns with the comprehensive plan. Staff found consistency with all applicable standards. The commission unanimously voted to recommend approval to City Council. 25-43HE: Flagship MOB 1 Height Exception (Quasi-Judicial) - Staff (Nicole Tremblay) presented a height exception request for a three-story medical office building at 2695 Curry Lane (5 acres, OPI zoning). The proposed height is 43 feet 4 inches (within the allowable 46-foot maximum with a height exception). The applicant (Marty Black, Sydney Thornton from VHB) explained that the height is necessary to accommodate an ambulatory surgery center on the ground floor, which requires 12–16 foot ceiling heights plus interstitial space per healthcare codes. The building is set back approximately 314 feet from Curry Lane to minimize visual impact, and the site is adjacent to Sarasota Memorial Hospital and other medical uses. Staff found no inconsistencies with the comprehensive plan or land development code. The commission unanimously voted to recommend approval to City Council. 25-50AM: Final Plat Process Text Amendment (Legislative) - Staff (Nicole Tremblay) presented a text amendment to Section 1 of the Land Development Code to comply with new state law (2025 legislative session) requiring final plats to be administratively approved rather than by City Council. The amendment designates the Engineering Department as the administrative authority and the City Engineer as the administrative official. A minor correction (extra letter 't' noted by Mr. Hill) was acknowledged. Staff also noted a request from the Clerk's office to shift the responsibility for recording plats with the county from the City Clerk back to the developer, a change that will be incorporated before the item goes to Council. The commission unanimously voted to recommend approval to City Council with the noted corrections. Key Outcomes - 25-42RZ Grand Oaks Zoning Map Amendment: Motion by Ms. Sherberg, second by Mr. Wilson. Approved 6-0 to recommend to City Council. - 25-43HE Flagship MOB Height Exception: Motion by Ms. Sherberg, second by Mr. Wilson. Approved 6-0 to recommend to City Council. - 25-50AM Final Plat Process Text Amendment: Motion by Mr. Young, second by Ms. Sherberg. Approved 6-0 to recommend to City Council, with staff to incorporate corrections and the revised plat recording process before transmittal. - The commission also approved a cancellation of the next scheduled meeting due to a lack of agenda items.

The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board of the City of Venice met on August 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The board approved previous meeting minutes, selected the 2025 Legacy Award recipient, reviewed a draft historic preservation brochure, and held a public hearing on a local register nomination. A key outcome was the decision to reduce regular meetings to once monthly starting in October 2025. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 22, 2025 and July 10, 2025): Approved unanimously by roll call vote. Discussion Items - Selection of 2025 Legacy Award Recipient: Staff presented voting results from board members: first place – Earl Midlam, tied for second – Ralph Twitchell and Venice Area Historical Society. The board discussed whether to award one or multiple recipients. A motion was made and seconded to nominate Earl Midlam as the recipient for 2025. The motion passed unanimously via roll call vote. The board also discussed establishing timelines and frequency criteria for future awards (e.g., a three-year gap before renomination for organizations). Staff will bring back a proposed timeline for the award process. - Draft Historic Preservation Informational Brochure: Staff introduced a rough mock-up of a trifold brochure. Board members commented on the need for more concise language, eye-catching graphics, and branding. Suggestions included adding QR codes linking to the Venice Museum, reorganizing content order, and using more vibrant colors. Staff will incorporate feedback and work with an external graphic designer to produce a revised mock-up for a future meeting. Public Hearing - Local Register Nomination – 500 Nassau Street South: Staff presented the nomination for the property at 500 Nassau Street South to be placed on the City's Local Register of Historical Resources. The applicant proposed the property under criteria 1, 3, 4, 8, and 9. Staff recommended removal of criteria 3 and 9, citing that oral history linking the home to a notable resident was likely misattributed, and that the property meets criteria 1 (significance in city history), 4 (distinctive architectural style – Mediterranean Revival), and 8 (contributing structure to the Venice Park National Historic District). Board discussion centered on the property's future restoration plans. The public hearing was closed without testimony. A motion was made and seconded to recommend nomination to City Council based on criteria 1, 4, and 8. The motion passed unanimously via roll call vote. Staff Comments & Updates - Senate Bill 180 Extension: Roger Clark, Planning and Zoning Director, noted that the governor recently extended Senate Bill 180, which prohibits adopting more burdensome or prohibitive code language until at least October 1, 2027. This limits the board's ability to pursue previously discussed code changes. - Meeting Schedule Change: Staff proposed switching from two meetings per month to one meeting per month due to a high cancellation rate (10 of 20 in 2024, 8 of 20 so far in 2025). After discussion, the board voted to hold one regular meeting per month on the second Thursday, starting in October 2025. Special meetings may be called if needed. - Survey Grant for Edgewood and Seaboard Area: City Council authorized signing a contract with the state for a grant to survey these areas. Staff will issue an RFP for a consultant. Key Outcomes - Legacy Award 2025: Board selected Earl Midlam as the recipient. Staff will coordinate a presentation at a future City Council meeting. - Local Register Nomination: Board voted 8-0 to recommend to City Council that 500 Nassau Street South be listed on the Local Register under criteria 1, 4, and 8. - Meeting Schedule: Board voted unanimously to hold regular meetings on the second Thursday of each month starting October 2025, reducing from two meetings per month. - Brochure Revisions: Staff will present a revised draft incorporating board feedback after working with a graphic designer. - Code Changes: Due to Senate Bill 180, the board will not pursue more restrictive code amendments until at least October 2027.

The Venice City Council met on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM, with an executive session at noon for a pending lawsuit. The meeting included the swearing-in of City Manager James Clinch, service awards for five employees, and a full agenda of consent items, public hearings, new business, and a mediated settlement agreement. Key actions included adoption of several land development code amendments, approval of a $17.5 million bond issuance, and a failed mediated settlement for a Planned Unit Development density increase. The meeting adjourned after 5:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the June 30, 2025 Flamingo Ditch Workshop and July 8, 2025 Regular Meeting. - Authorized a private attorney-client session on September 23, 2025 for the Patrick Lynch v. City of Venice case. - Approved the third amendment to the Zachrich Hangar Lease Agreement at the airport. - Approved an interlocal agreement for mutual aid building inspections with North Port, Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Charlotte County, Sarasota County, and Longboat Key (pulled for discussion but later passed unanimously). - Authorized acceptance of a temporary construction easement from MAH Venice Investments for a water booster pump station. - Approved the final plat for Hawthorn Hollows and accepted a $1,707,173.01 completion bond. - Approved a workers' compensation settlement for former employee Ottone Guraly in the amount of $17,600. - Authorized execution of a $40,600 historic resources survey grant for Edgewood and Seaboard areas. - Approved a fence replacement and subsurface utilities agreement with MAH Venice Investments. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers during the initial audience participation period. - During the mediated settlement discussion, three speakers opposed the agreement: - Olin Thomas (Milano resident): Called the settlement one-sided, argued it was not a compromise, and highlighted the addition of eight new conditions beyond the original density request. - Joan Ayacono (Venice Thrives): Urged rejection, stating the agreement was a “surrender” and that the city was “ceding control” to developers; noted the original denial reasons remained unchanged. - Steve Carr (Central Venice Coalition): Objected to height exceptions and the binding condition that would prevent the council from placing stipulations on the height exception application. Discussion Items - Ordinance 2025-19 (Affordable Housing/Live Local Act): On second reading, staff noted a small change to clarify that a portion of a planned district permitting commercial, industrial, or mixed use could be used. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-26 (Planned Public Hospital District): Creating a new zoning district for a public hospital campus. Councilmember Smith opposed, citing frequent amendments to guiding documents. Passed 6-1. - Ordinance 2025-27 (Comprehensive Plan Amendment): Amending Mixed Use Corridor standards to recognize the new hospital district. Passed 6-1. - Ordinance 2025-28 (Zoning Map Amendment): Changing the zoning of 2600 East Laurel Road from Laurel West to Planned Public Hospital District. This quasi-judicial item passed 6-1. - Ordinance 2025-29 (Parks and Recreation Code Amendment): On first reading, changes descriptions and removes a requirement to send park naming proposals to a citizen advisory board. Passed 5-2; Councilmembers Smith and Weed opposed, arguing the board provided valuable input and time for community consideration. - Ordinance 2025-30 (Council Presentation Time Limits): On first reading, limits presentations to 20 minutes and three per meeting. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2025-16 (Rescind Site Nomination Procedure): Rescinds a 2009 resolution for council endorsement of environmentally sensitive lands nominations. Passed 6-1; Councilmember Smith wanted to assign the task to the citizen advisory board. - Resolution 2025-17 (Bond Issuance): Authorizes not exceeding $17.5 million in capital improvement revenue bonds for Fire Station 52, an EOC storage facility, and a solid waste/fleet maintenance facility. Councilmember Weed noted the facility is outside city limits, so the title was amended from “within the city” to “for the city.” Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2025-18 (Airport PAPI Grant Amendment): Approves an amendment to a state grant for replacing precision approach path indicators at the airport. Councilmember Howard praised the safety and noise benefits. Passed unanimously. - Resolutions 2025-19 and 2025-20 (Utilities Acceptances): Accepting utilities and improvements from Rustic Oaks Community Development District for two phases of Magnolia Bay South. Both passed unanimously. - Resolution 2025-21 (Mobile Home Park Prospectus): Approves updated rules and regulations for the Venice Municipal Mobile Home Park, last updated in 1997. Councilmember Smith requested a delay for a community meeting, but the resolution passed 5-2 after a punctuation amendment on insurance requirements. - 25-0312 (FY2026 Budget Changes): Finance Director Linda Senne presented changes since the June budget workshop, including adding six dual-certified firefighters, reducing the CBORD master plan allocation, and adjusting fire pension contributions. Passed unanimously. - 25-0313 (Quarterly Financial Update): Presented as of June 30, 2025; general fund revenues are tracking well, with property taxes at 101% of budget. No action required. - 25-0314 (Mediated Settlement Agreement – GCCF PUD): The council considered a mediated settlement for a density increase from 1,300 to 1,617 units on a 324-acre PUD, with conditions including restricting 370 additional units to a 17.46-acre parcel and adding height exceptions (65 feet for assisted living, 55 feet for multifamily). After extensive debate, the motion to approve failed 3-4, with Councilmembers Engelke, Boldt, and Frank in favor; Councilmembers Smith, Weed, Howard, and Mayor Pachota opposed. The matter will proceed to a special magistrate hearing or court. - 25-0315 (Virtual Attendance Request): Approved unanimously to allow applicant Walt Kitonis to participate virtually in a September 9 appeal hearing due to a family medical emergency. - 25-0316 (Fire Pension Board Appointment): Appointed Mary Beth Holland to complete the unexpired term of Barbara Fraser through September 30, 2026. Passed unanimously. - 25-0317 (Historic and Architectural Preservation Board Appointments): Reappointed John Barrick and Mark Beebe to terms from September 1, 2025 to August 31, 2028. Passed unanimously. - 25-0318 (Charter Amendment for Assistant City Manager): Mayor Pachota proposed referring to the charter a requirement for council approval of the assistant city manager selection. After debate, the motion failed 1-6, with only the mayor voting in favor. Several councilmembers felt the city manager should have autonomy in hiring. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Six land use ordinances and five resolutions passed; bond issuance and budget changes approved. - Failed Items: Mediated settlement for GCCF PUD density increase (3-4); charter amendment for assistant city manager selection (1-6). - Appointments: Mary Beth Holland to Fire Pension Board; John Barrick and Mark Beebe to HAPB. - Next Steps: The city will proceed with the FLUEDRA process or potential litigation on the denied settlement. The budget ordinance will be considered at the September public hearing with potential millage rate discussion.

The Venice Planning Commission met on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the July 1, 2025 regular meeting and conducted three quasi-judicial public hearings: Site and Development Plan for Border Road Storage, Design Alternative and Preliminary Plat for Cassata Oaks, and Preliminary Plat for Vistera Phase 2. All three items were approved with specific stipulations or conditions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Motion made (Mr. Hale) and seconded to approve the July 1, 2025 regular meeting minutes as presented. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Border Road Storage (24-37SP): Four speakers addressed the commission. - Mary Lucas (ARIA resident) expressed concerns about building elevations, hours of operation, lighting, and landscaping. She noted that residents had little input despite prior promises and questioned if promises would be kept. - Hank Naiwalla (Palencia resident) raised concerns about the 35-foot height and traffic safety on Border Road. - John Neal (neighboring property owner) questioned the necessity of a 25-foot wildlife corridor in the wall, calling it "silly." - Mary Brady requested that the property remain residential to preserve the beauty of Border Road. - Cassata Oaks (24-64DA & 24-66PP): One speaker addressed the commission. - Steve Carr (Central Venice Coalition) commended the applicant for listening to community input but requested clarification that the wall height increase applied to both south and east property lines (staff confirmed an omission in the report). He also asked that stipulation 8 about good-faith cooperation with Foxlea Farms be extended to the entire property (noted as outside the scope of this hearing). - Vistera Phase 2 (25-18PP): No public speakers signed up. Discussion Items - Border Road Storage (24-37SP): Staff presented the request for two three-story self-storage buildings on 5.2 acres, zoned commercial with a stipulation for self-storage only. The applicant noted the plan was nearly identical to the previously approved concept. Discussion focused on: - Roof materials: Commissioner Jasper expressed disappointment that asphalt shingles were shown instead of barrel tile (consistent with the neighborhood). The applicant agreed to a stipulation for tile roofing on the towers. - Hours of operation: The site plan indicated 24-hour operation; the applicant clarified it would be 8 AM to 9 PM with limited private access until 9 PM. A stipulation was added for 8 AM to 9 PM hours. - Wildlife corridor: Commissioner Kit questioned the 25-foot corridor; staff explained it is required by code. The applicant confirmed two breaks in the wall exist for ingress/egress. - Cassata Oaks Design Alternative (24-64DA): Three design alternatives were requested: (A) leave invasive species in the 100-foot southern buffer, (B) decrease private road right-of-way from 60 to 50 feet, (C) increase buffer walls from 6 to 8 feet on south and east property lines. Staff and applicant described the project as 60 single-family lots (50 standard, 10 estate) on 39.8 acres with extensive buffering. Compatibility was addressed through the prior rezoning and stipulations. The commission commended the thorough review and voted to approve. - Cassata Oaks Preliminary Plat (24-66PP): The plat for 60 lots was presented as consistent with the binding concept plan. The commission approved it following the design alternative approval. - Vistera Phase 2 Preliminary Plat (25-18PP): The plat for 190 single-family lots (89.56 acres) within the GCCF PUD was presented. Staff confirmed the project is under the maximum density and consistent with the binding master plan. The stormwater routing through Phase 1 was explained by the engineer. No modifications were requested. Key Outcomes - Border Road Storage (24-37SP): Motion to approve with stipulations: (1) replace asphalt shingles with barrel tile on towers, (2) hours of operation limited to 8 AM to 9 PM. Motion passed 7-0. - Cassata Oaks Design Alternative (24-64DA): Motion to approve the three design alternatives. Passed 7-0. - Cassata Oaks Preliminary Plat (24-66PP): Motion to approve. Passed 7-0. - Vistera Phase 2 Preliminary Plat (25-18PP): Motion to approve. Passed 7-0. Comments by Planning and Zoning Department - Director Roger Clark reminded the commission of the next meeting on September 2, 2025, with three applications including a text amendment. He announced a training opportunity in Daytona on September 16, 2025 ($45 registration). He noted that the variance appeal for Base Avenue (previously approved) is moving to City Council. He highlighted the lengthy history of the Cassata Oaks project (10 years) and thanked the commission for its approval. Comments by Planning Commission Members - Commissioner Kit requested an excused absence for the September 2 meeting due to a scheduled medical procedure. The meeting adjourned.

The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board of the City of Venice met on July 10, 2025, at 9:00 AM local time (14:00 UTC). Upon roll call, Chair Beebe, Ms. Tramm, Miss Derriberry, Mr. Steckerty, Mr. Watkins, and Mr. Barrick were present. However, the board lacked a legal quorum, and Chair Beebe immediately adjourned the meeting. No business was conducted.

The Venice City Council met on July 8, 2025, from 9:00 AM to approximately 12:00 PM (with an executive session at noon). The meeting began with a tribute to retiring City Manager Ed Lavallee, followed by public comments, consent agenda, multiple public hearings on land use changes, new business presentations, and council reports. Key votes included approval of a new Planned Public Hospital District zoning (6-1) and setting of preliminary millage rates (6-1). Retirement Tribute - Mayor Pachota and staff honored City Manager Ed Lavallee, who served the city for 13 years and over 50 years in public service. He received the Michael J. Roberto Award for Career Development from FCCMA on May 30, 2025. A video tribute from staff, a flag flown over the Lavallee Municipal Campus, and personal remarks highlighted his servant leadership and cultural impact. An open house reception was scheduled for 4:00-6:00 PM at the Venice Performing Arts Center. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: setting public hearing dates for millage and budget (Sept. 9 and Sept. 23, 2025) and setting preliminary millage at 3.9041 mills (operating) and 0.3405 mills (debt service) for FY2026; approval of minutes; reappointment of Oscar Guinart to Police Pension Board; approval of employment agreement for new City Manager James Clinch; special event permits for Venice Antique Car Club Swap Meet (Dec. 6, 2025), Glow Ride at Airport Festival Grounds, and 100 Block Holiday Block Party (Nov. 29, 2025); authorization of CDBG interlocal agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Hofschmidt (Venice resident): Expressed support for reducing environmental impacts of July 4th fireworks, suggesting alternative locations (inland parks) and drone light shows to protect wildlife (sea turtles, least terns) during breeding season. - Steve Carr (Central Venice Coalition): Advocated for including a 0.45-mile section of Curry Creek (through the sawgrass community) in the city’s quarterly maintenance program to prevent flooding; argued the benefits to the larger community justify maintenance on private property. Discussion Items - Item 25-0277 (Millage Rate): Council Member Smith requested removal from consent, arguing for the rollback rate (3.73 mills) to provide tax relief. Other members noted that the rate is a maximum and will be finalized during budget hearings. The motion to approve as staff recommended passed 6-1 (Smith opposed). - Ordinances 2025-26, 2025-27, 2025-28 (Planned Public Hospital District): These three ordinances create the new PPH zoning district, amend the comprehensive plan to allow up to 150-foot building height and 3.0 FAR, and rezone the SMH Venice campus at 2600 East Laurel Road. Staff and applicant presented; council discussion included concerns about height versus health care needs. Council Member Smith voted no each time, citing comprehensive plan integrity and loss of control; other members supported the expansion for improved health services. All passed 6-1. - Ordinance 2025-19 (Live Local Act Affordable Housing): First reading passed unanimously. - Ordinance 2025-25 (Budget Amendment): Final reading increasing revenues/expenditures by $9,236,600 passed unanimously. - Curry Creek Maintenance Update: Staff presented ongoing maintenance, an NRCS grant of $360,000 for debris removal, and potential maintenance exchange with Sarasota County (county takes over Curry Creek, city takes over Deertown Gully). Council and public input supported the exchange but urged inclusion of sawgrass section. - Pre-Annexation Agreements (Items 25-0287, 25-0288): Approved unanimously for Flagship Medical Office Building 2 and Baker Trust Ewing Project. - HAPB Appointment (25-0289): Stephen Green appointed to fill unexpired term through August 31, 2027, unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Millage rate setting: Approved 6-1. - PPH zoning (first reading) for ordinances 2025-26, 2025-27, 2025-28: All approved 6-1. - Live Local Act affordable housing (first reading): Approved 7-0. - Budget amendment (final reading): Approved 7-0. - Pre-annexation agreements and HAPB appointment: Approved 7-0. - Directives: Staff to continue exploring maintenance exchange with county for Curry Creek/Deertown Gully and meet with Sarasota Bay Watch. NRCS grant work expected to begin fall 2025. - Council Member Smith: Requested that the Citizen Advisory Board's hurricane response report be formally accepted and discussed at a future meeting; Mayor indicated any member may place items on the agenda. - Executive Session: Scheduled for noon on pending litigation/legislative updates. - Next Steps: Final reading of PPH ordinances (2025-26, 2025-27, 2025-28) at future meeting; budget hearings on September 9 and 23, 2025.

The city held an information session to gather public comments on safety improvements for Bay Shore and Laguna Drives. Acting City Engineer John Kramer presented the study process, which includes collecting public input, a resident survey, and a second workshop before any recommendations are made to city council. The meeting featured extensive testimony from residents with divergent views on sidewalks, widening, speed reduction, and alternative traffic calming measures. Public Comments & Testimony - Sam Humphries (pedestrian): Stated that Bay Shore is very dangerous for pedestrians and that widening the road by three feet would not improve safety; advocated for a sidewalk. - Ed Elop (resident, Bay Shore Circle): On behalf of himself and Dean Ricci, stressed pedestrian safety, opposed widening without sidewalks, and presented a concept for a boulevard with a center sidewalk and bike lanes. - Sharon Bellandier: Opposed a sidewalk on the west side of the 300 block; raised concerns about flooding and insurance costs; suggested enforcement of stop signs and solar-lit signs. - Nora Bellender: Opposed a sidewalk on the west side, stating there are no police or fire department reports of incidents on Bay Shore. - Jim Leftwich (329 Bayshore): Not opposed to a sidewalk but against it on his front yard; supported widening and the center boulevard idea; called for enforcing the speed limit (possibly lowering it) and police presence. - Alison Williamson (El Dorado Drive): Requested a stop sign at Laguna Drive and a curve warning sign due to fast traffic on the sharp curve. - Joan Piper (336 Bayshore, east side): Represented four families on the east side who all want a sidewalk on either side; supported widening and expressed frustration with the prolonged process. - Robert Argys (704 Laguna): Questioned the need for major changes, noting no recorded accidents; suggested speed bumps as an immediate, low-cost solution. - Judy Collins (corner Bayshore and Laguna): Stop signs helped but believes a full-length sidewalk is necessary, not just the first block; urged waiting for funding to cover the entire corridor. - Linda Letendre (305 Park Lane): Concerned about a sidewalk being extended onto Park Lane; acknowledged the need for action but hopes for a balanced solution. - Linda Messerly (412 Bayshore): 20-year resident, stated no known accidents; opposed a sidewalk, suggested alternative walking paths on quieter streets, radar speed signs, and speed humps; noted that service vehicles and bicycles create additional hazards. - Carol Humes (east side): Wants a sidewalk to separate pedestrians from traffic; noted no police reports because injuries didn't require hospitalization; urged the city to make a decision. - Linda McCullum (305 Bayshore, via Zoom): West side resident, strongly opposed a sidewalk on her side due to property value, drainage, insurance, and privacy concerns; proposed removing the bike lane and reducing traffic; requested respect for west side residents' preferences. - An audience member stated they were seriously injured on Bay Shore, despite no police report or hospital visit. Discussion Items - Acting City Engineer John Kramer clarified that the city has not selected any solution; the earlier proposal for three-foot paved shoulders was not an official plan. The study will examine the full length of Bayshore and Laguna, not just the 300 block. - Assistant City Manager James Clinch emphasized that the city council directed staff to take time to find a balanced solution addressing safety while preserving neighborhood character. He noted that police have identified safety concerns on the corridor. - Several attendees asked about the survey distribution (online and mailed to residents), future meeting format (breakout groups suggested), cost transparency, and the timeline (survey in fall, second workshop a month later). - Kramer confirmed that the comment period will remain open for a few more weeks; comments can be emailed to BayShoreCorridor@DMKASSOC.com. Key Outcomes - No decisions or votes were made; this was an information-gathering session. - The next steps: DMK Associates will produce a summary report of all comments, then a resident survey will be distributed (likely in fall 2025) asking about preferences for sidewalks, paved shoulders, speed humps, electronic speed signs, and other options, including whether residents support them on their side of the street. - A second community workshop will be held after the survey to present engineering analysis and survey results. - The city intends to ultimately bring a recommendation to city council for a policy decision. - The public can continue submitting comments for approximately two more weeks via email.

The Venice Planning Commission met on July 1, 2025, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers to consider two quasi-judicial public hearings: a site and development plan for two aircraft hangars at Venice Airport (24-49SP) and a variance request to waive architectural standards at 240 Base Avenue East (25-22VZ). The meeting began with approval of the June 17, 2025 minutes and concluded with comments from the Planning and Zoning Director and commission members. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony (on the variance petition 25-22VZ) - Lou Ann Wood (resident, 40 years): Expressed strong support, calling the project a "breath of fresh air" and beneficial for youth. She described the existing property as a "disaster" and urged approval. - Peter Zay (neighboring resident): Raised concerns about the nature of the neighborhood (residential multifamily/single-family), questioned the proposed uses (robotics, drones, brew pub), and argued that the property's recent sale price difference could cover architectural compliance. He urged the board to uphold the intent of the historic precedent standards. - Deborah Anderson (resident of Braza del Mar across the street): Opposed the variance, stating the neighborhood is not run-down and that residents take pride in their homes. She noted that the applicant failed to get a petition from her building, asserted that the historic architectural character is important to Venice, and questioned the compatibility of drone/brew pub uses with surrounding residences. - Ray Gessel (Base Avenue resident): Expressed general support for improving the property but voiced concerns about the long-term maintenance and hurricane resilience of a metal building, citing dilapidated metal buildings already in the area. He requested a better design if possible. Discussion Items 24-49SP: Venice Aircraft Hangars Phase 1 Site and Development Plan - Staff Presentation: Senior Planner Nicole Tremblay presented the proposal to develop two airplane hangars on a 4.05-acre leased portion of the Venice Airport property (400 Airport Avenue East). The site is zoned Government with a Mixed-Use Airport future land use. The hangars would house existing planes, add five parking spaces and an internal walkway. Staff found the plan consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, and no concurrency or mobility issues were identified since no new traffic would be generated. - Applicant Presentation: Todd Amaden (Landmark Engineering) and representatives from Sky Built (general contractor) stated they had nothing to add to staff's thorough report and answered no commissioner questions. - No public testimony was offered. - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Jasper moved to approve, seconded by Chair Sherberg. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). 25-22VZ: 240 Base Avenue East Variance - Staff Presentation: Nicole Tremblay explained the applicant seeks a variance from Section 87-2.3.6, which requires the Venice Historic Precedent (VHP) architectural style in the Airport Avenue zoning district. The 0.74-acre parcel currently has two buildings; the applicant proposes to demolish them and construct a new metal multi-purpose industrial building. Staff reminded the commission of the six variance criteria and noted the application is limited to the architectural standard relief; a future site and development plan would be required. - Applicant Presentation: Attorney Jeffrey Boone (Boone Law Firm) and property owner Walt Kitonis presented. Kitonis described his background in defense contracting and his vision for a community facility housing uses such as robotics/drone testing, repair services, music space, and meeting space for clubs (e.g., Suncoast Reef Rovers). He argued that the VHP standard is onerous and prohibitive for a metal building, that the surrounding area is predominantly non-compliant (only 1 of 34 parcels in the district meets VHP), and that the historic precedent for this area is actually metal buildings from the former Army Air Base. He emphasized that the variance is the minimum necessary to allow reasonable use of the property and that the existing structures are deteriorated and an eyesore. - Commission Questions: Commissioner Young questioned the characterization of the district, noting many nice homes and condos nearby. Attorney Boone clarified the district boundaries and reiterated that only one parcel comes close to VHP compliance. Commissioner Young also asked about cost differences; Boone said compliance would be prohibitively expensive. Commissioner Wilson (former founder of Suncoast Reef Rovers) asked if community uses would continue; Kitonis confirmed they would. - Applicant Rebuttal: Boone addressed public comments, noting that brew pubs are already a permitted use in the district, that the property's existing non-conforming uses are protected, and that new metal buildings must meet current Florida building codes, making them more resilient than many older homes. He argued the variance meets all criteria and would improve the neighborhood. - Staff had no additional comments. Key Outcomes - 24-49SP (Venice Aircraft Hangars): Approved 7-0. - 25-22VZ (Variance at 240 Base Avenue East): Approved 6-1. Commissioner McKeon voted no, stating the variance does not go as far as the Comprehensive Plan intended for the area. All other commissioners expressed support, noting the improvement over the current blighted condition and the community benefit. - Next Steps: The commission will recess until August 19, 2025. Planning and Zoning Director Roger Clark noted the Governor signed a bill extending the moratorium on local governments creating more burdensome LDRs through October 2027. The commission also discussed potential attendance at the Florida Planning Conference in Daytona Beach in September.

The City Council of Venice held a workshop on June 30, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM, to discuss the Flamingo Ditch flood mitigation project. After setting a 10-minute public comment limit, the Council heard presentations from the city attorney on legal obligations and from Coastal Protection Engineering (CPE) on a comprehensive feasibility study. The meeting included public testimony from four residents and concluded with Council direction to pursue short-term improvements, including potential acquisition of a vacant lot for additional storage. Public Comments & Testimony - Luann Wood (resident of 550 West Flamingo Drive, 40-year resident): Stated that the city has maintained Flamingo Ditch for 40 years and argued that maintaining an open outfall is a simple fix. Urged immediate clearing of the ditch mouth. - Israel Salinas (resident of 591 Flamingo Drive, chair of Flamingo Ditch Steering Committee): Presented historic photos and studies suggesting that beach renourishment projects in the 1990s contributed to sand buildup at the outfall. Called for a 100% commitment from governing authorities and continuity across future administrations. - Loretta Elliott (resident of 601 Flamingo Drive): Quoted the legal memorandum stating the city’s obligation to maintain the ditch as part of its stormwater system. Noted lack of maintenance, overgrown vegetation, and questioned whether the city has walked the ditch. Expressed concern about a June 28 news article that appeared to prelease findings before the meeting. - Mary Ann Robertson (resident of 703-705 Golden Beach Boulevard): Described years of flooding from common rainfall, damaging her driveway and stalling cars. She invested $20,000 of her own money for culverts and a retention wall. Noted that neighbors physically unplug the ditch during storms. Called the city’s inaction neglect. Discussion Items - Legal Obligations (Derek Schroth): Schroth explained that the city is not obligated to improve Flamingo Ditch but must maintain it at the current level due to historical voluntary undertakings. The city has no duty to upgrade for changed climate and is not liable for extreme weather damages. He noted that if the city makes additional improvements, it would be obligated to maintain them perpetually. He also clarified that the city can use easements for improvements but would then be responsible for maintenance. - Feasibility Study (Coastal Protection Engineering): Tom Piero and Joe Morrow presented results of over 100 model runs covering rainfall events, storm surge events, and compound events. Key findings: Flamingo Ditch is a natural depression with a storage capacity of 276,000 cubic feet at the 5.5-foot contour; even a 1-inch rain (346,000 cf) causes street flooding. Storm surge from Hurricanes Helene (9.8 ft peak, between 50- and 100-year) and Milton (11.2 ft, near 100-year) caused severe damage. Five alternative categories were evaluated: (1) pumping systems (not effective for surge without massive, infeasible pumps), (2) raising the entire neighborhood to elevation 9 (effective up to 100-year rain and 50-year surge but extremely costly), (3) increasing storage (requires purchasing multiple properties, modest benefit), (4) upstream improvements (little effect), (5) dune/seawall (blocks surge but traps rainfall, worsening flooding). CPE recommended a combined short-term approach: raise city-owned roads, improve drainage pipes with one-way valves, and acquire a vacant lot (Lot 2) to compensate for lost storage. These measures were estimated to cost less than $5 million (in the "yellow" to "green" relative cost range) and would relieve frequent flood events, though not solve storm surge. - Council Discussion: Council members debated the appropriate next steps. Some emphasized urgency and moral obligation to act, while others cautioned about legal liability and the need for careful evaluation. There was consensus to direct staff to pursue the short-term improvements identified by CPE, including negotiating the purchase of the vacant Lot 2 on West Flamingo Drive for additional stormwater storage and future green space. The Council also noted the importance of continued communication with residents and ongoing maintenance efforts. Key Outcomes - Direction to Staff: Council instructed city staff to work with CPE and pursue immediate short-term solutions, specifically: (a) design and implement road raising, drainage improvements (new pipes, grates, one-way valves), and (b) proceed with negotiations to acquire Lot 2 at West Flamingo Drive for additional flood storage. - Grant Applications: The city has already applied for a NOAA grant ($5.9 million) and is ranked No. 2 on the Sarasota County LMS list for FEMA HMGP funding. Council supported continued pursuit of these and other grants. - Legal Liability Consideration: Council asked staff to ensure that any actions taken do not create additional legal exposure beyond current obligations. The city attorney advised that any new improvements would require perpetual maintenance. - Next Steps: CPE will finalize its report by late summer/early fall 2025, incorporating Council input. Staff will provide updates on Lot 2 negotiations and cost estimates for short-term projects.