Public Meetings - Venice, Florida

The Venice Planning Commission met on June 2, 2026 at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The agenda included a presentation on the Seaboard Phase 1 Technical Plan, three quasi-judicial public hearings (Family Promise affordable housing, Sarasota Memorial Hospital expansion, Mavis Tires conditional use), and a legislative text amendment for Certified Recovery Residences. All three public hearing items were approved unanimously (6-0), and the text amendment was recommended for approval to City Council with an additional definition. There was no public participation during Audience Participation or any public hearing. Consent Calendar - Absences: Anna Frank (excused for June 2 meeting) and Mr. Hale (excused for June 16 meeting) were approved unanimously. - Minutes from the May 19, 2026 regular meeting were approved as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up for Audience Participation or spoke during any of the public hearings. Discussion Items - Seaboard Phase 1 Technical Plan Presentation: Josh Frank (Dover, Kohl & Partners) presented a detailed conceptual plan for the first phase of redevelopment on city-owned parcels in the Seaboard District. Key concepts included creating a new street (New Nolan Street) to increase walkability and development value, preserving light industrial character, providing housing types like live-work and row houses, and prioritizing a pedestrian-bicycle friendly public realm. The plan envisions approximately 236 residential units within three blocks and recommends a new "CBOR Core" zoning category. The presentation is a precursor to a City Council meeting on July 14, 2026. - Family Promise Site and Development Plan (25-74SP) & Design Alternative (25-75DA): The applicant, Family Promise of South Sarasota County, proposed a phased affordable housing development on two parcels at 430 and 460 Substation Road. Phase 1 includes 10 multifamily units (five duplexes) on just over one acre, with access via a private easement. The design alternative sought relief from a Type 5 buffer requirement along the western property line adjacent to VSE Aviation (former Turbine Weld). Staff and applicant (Jackson Boone) presented the proposal, noting that 5 canopy trees, 6 understory trees, and 26 shrubs with an existing 6-foot fence are proposed instead of the standard 13 canopy trees, 6 understory trees, continuous hedge, 6-foot wall, and 3-foot berm. The applicant argued the industrial use is fully enclosed and the residential buildings are setback farther. Both petitions were approved unanimously. - Sarasota Memorial Hospital Site and Development Plan (26-09SP): SMH requested approval for two expansion improvements on its 65-acre campus at 2600 East Laurel Road: a two-story, 20,846 sq ft Interventional Radiology/MRI expansion connected to the emergency department, and a four-story Inpatient Rehabilitation Pavilion (approximately 4,128 sq ft ground floor, plus 24,434 sq ft floors 2-4) connected to the existing bed tower. The expansion will add 62,000 sq ft of building area, well within the approved FAR of 3.0 (campus currently at 0.26). The project will reduce parking by 4 spaces (already addressed by a prior administrative parking expansion) and add 83 covered parking spaces. Traffic impacts (621 PM peak trips) are within the approved 879 trips for Phase 1. The petition was approved unanimously. - Mavis Tires and Brakes Conditional Use (26-10CU): A conditional use request to allow a minor vehicle service center (Mavis Tires and Brakes) within the Venice Crossing Commercial Center at 2001 Laurel Road. The 0.98-acre parcel will have a 7,000 sq ft building with 8 service bays (all indoors), 27 parking spaces, and access via internal roadway. The use is allowed in CG zoning with a conditional use. Staff and applicant confirmed that all service is performed inside the building and bay doors must be closed when not in use. The site plan will come before the commission separately (26-11SP). The petition was approved unanimously. - Certified Recovery Residence Text Amendment (26-22AM): A legislative text amendment to add procedures and definitions for certified recovery residences (substance abuse recovery) to the Land Development Code. The amendment adds the use to the definition of group living, strikes outdated terms, and incorporates state statute requirements for application, reasonable accommodation, and revocation criteria. The commission approved a motion (6-0) to recommend approval to City Council with an addition to include the definition of "certificate of compliance" in the code. Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously: Family Promise Design Alternative (25-75DA) – motion by Mr. McKean, second by Mr. Hale. - Approved Unanimously: Family Promise Site and Development Plan (25-74SP) – motion by Mr. Jasper, second by Mr. Hale. - Approved Unanimously: Sarasota Memorial Hospital Site and Development Plan (26-09SP) – motion by Mr. Ferlagi, second by Mr. McKean. - Approved Unanimously (6-0): Mavis Tires and Brakes Conditional Use (26-10CU) – motion by Ms. Sherberg, second by Mr. Hale. - Recommended Approval to City Council (6-0): Certified Recovery Residence Text Amendment (26-22AM) – motion by Mr. McKean, second by Mr. Jasper, with the added amendment to define "certificate of compliance." - Next Steps: The Seaboard Phase 1 Technical Plan will be presented to City Council on July 14, 2026. Staff will finalize code amendments for larger public hearing signs, hybrid neighborhood workshops, and expanded notification zones (500 feet from 250 feet) following City Council direction. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for June 16, 2026.

The Venice City Council met on May 26, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations recognizing Children First's 65th Anniversary and Small Cities Month, approval of consent items including grant agreements for emergency generator and utilities projects, public hearings on easements for FPL relocations, first reading of a land development code text amendment, final adoption of a school zone speed detection ordinance, approval of a resolution establishing the Venice Police Charitable Foundation, and a presentation on neighborhood workshop and property posting standards leading to two unanimous motions. Proclamations - Mayor Pachota proclaimed May 2026 as "Children First's 65th Anniversary Month" and June 2026 as "Small Cities Month." Philip Tavill and Jessica Rogers accepted for Children First; City Manager James Clinch and Assistant City Manager Roger Omenhiser accepted for Small Cities Month, noting the city's centennial year. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the May 12, 2026 regular meeting. - Authorized the Mayor to execute a State of Florida Division of Emergency Management subaward (Grant 4673-213-R) for $937,125.00 to install an emergency generator and wind protection at the Public Works Building. - Authorized the Mayor to execute a Florida Department of Environmental Protection grant for $850,000 for the Utilities Equalization Basin Tank Project. Public Hearings - Easements (26-0619, 26-0620, 26-0621): Three easements to Florida Power & Light were approved unanimously for electrical service relocations related to the Agape Flights hangar and the new Fire Station 2. - Ordinance 2026-16 (First Reading): An ordinance amending decision criteria for several quasi-judicial application types (zoning map amendments, conditional uses, site plans, preliminary plats, height exceptions) was approved 7-0 after a staff presentation and discussion. The changes aim to clarify and make criteria more objective without adding new burdens. Councilmember Smith raised concerns about Senate Bill 180 restrictions, but the City Attorney noted the effort was to improve clarity. The ordinance was scheduled for final reading. - Ordinance 2026-19 (Final Reading): An ordinance authorizing speed detection systems in school zones for Venice Elementary was adopted unanimously. New Business - Resolution 2026-11: Acknowledged the creation of the Venice Police Charitable Foundation, found it serves a public purpose, and approved the transfer of $68,504.57 in charitable donations held by the city to the foundation. Chief Andy Leisenring and board member Sean Singheisen presented the foundation's mission, which includes supporting employees in need and community programs like Shop with a Cop and Blue Santa. Approved unanimously. Presentation with Action: Neighborhood Workshops and Property Posting Standards Planning Director Roger Clark presented research on neighborhood workshop formats and notification standards. The Council discussed three potential changes: requiring hybrid workshops (in-person + virtual), increasing the mailed notification radius from 250 feet to 500 feet, and adopting a larger, clearer sign with a QR code. Two separate motions were made: 1. Motion to require hybrid workshops (in-person and virtual) – passed unanimously. 2. Motion to increase notification radius to 500 feet – passed unanimously, despite some concerns about Senate Bill 180 burdens. The City Attorney noted the city could absorb costs if needed. The sign size change does not require a code amendment and will be implemented administratively. Charter Officer Reports - City Clerk reminded that the June 9 meeting is canceled; next meetings are budget workshops on June 18 and 19. - City Manager James Clinch reported that the city will not exceed the 3% charter limit for the upcoming budget, planning a lean year with reductions while maintaining service levels. Budget books will be provided late next week. He also noted hurricane season preparations and the upcoming Hurricane and Home Expo. Council Reports - Councilmember Smith endorsed a letter from former council member Mitzi Fiedler about acquiring 10 acres near North Venice Park, requested a discussion on reopening Casperson Beach at the joint county meeting, and praised the airport master plan citizen advisory panel, suggesting it become a permanent advisory board. - Councilmember Engelke reported attending the Florida League of Cities Leadership meeting and noted that Venice is recognized as a well-run city. - Mayor Pachota announced the Hurricane and Home Expo (May 29-30), the Downtown Venice Craft Festival (June 20-21), and the July 4th centennial celebration including a parade, picnic, and fireworks. Key Outcomes - All consent items, public hearing items, and resolutions were approved unanimously. - Two substantive policy changes were directed: (1) neighborhood workshops must include a hybrid in-person/virtual option, and (2) mailed notification radius for proposed developments will be expanded from 250 feet to 500 feet. Staff will draft ordinances for these changes. - The Police Charitable Foundation received formal recognition and a transfer of $68,504.57. - The city will not seek to exceed the 3% charter limit for the next fiscal year budget.

The Venice Planning Commission met on May 19, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers to consider two quasi-judicial variance petitions. The meeting began with roll call, approval of the April 21, 2026 minutes (passed unanimously), and no general audience participation. Both hearings involved completed structures that deviated from code requirements. Commissioners emphasized the seriousness of errors and the importance of compliance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 21, 2026 regular meeting were approved by a unanimous vote (motion by Mr. Ferlaggi, second by Mr. Hale). No discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - General Audience Participation: No speakers signed up. - Variance 26‑01VZ (161 Canoe Bend Ave): Katrina DeJesus (Meritage Homes, agent/applicant) testified that a slab misalignment led to a 0.31‑foot (3.72‑inch) side setback encroachment on a finished single‑family home. She acknowledged the error was discovered at slab pour but construction continued. Commissioner Floriagi expressed concern, stating this would be a one‑time pass and warning that future similar cases may be viewed as willful. No public comments from neighbors. - Variance 26‑05VZ (400 Park Blvd N): Brian Zambrano (agent/architect) explained that the carport was built under a valid permit but the subsequent driveway design inadvertently violated the 40‑foot driveway setback. After working with staff, the variance was reduced to a two‑foot encroachment (38 feet from pavement). No public comments. Discussion Items - 26‑01VZ – 161 Canoe Bend Ave (Variance): Staff (Nicole Tremblay) presented the seven decision criteria under LDC 1.13.3. The applicant’s responses indicated the deviation was unintentional. Despite Commissioner Floriagi’s admonition about continuing construction after discovery, the commission found the variance met the criteria and was the minimum necessary. The house was already built; denial would cause major hardship. - 26‑05VZ – 400 Park Blvd N (Variance): Staff clarified that the initial carport permit review did not require the driveway setback dimension, constituting a staff error. The applicant reduced the variance request as much as possible (from 34 ft to 38 ft, the limit to allow safe vehicle turning). The commission noted that, unlike the previous case, this error was not the property owner’s fault and there was no negative impact on safety, drainage, or nearby properties. Key Outcomes - Vote on 26‑01VZ: Motion to approve (Mr. Floriagi) seconded by Mr. Jasper. Passed unanimously (7‑0). Commissioner Floriagi stated this was a one‑time allowance due to the unintentional nature and reminded all builders that similar errors in the future may be considered willful. - Vote on 26‑05VZ: Motion to approve as correcting a staff error (Mr. Floriagi) seconded by Mr. Jasper. Passed unanimously (7‑0). Commissioner Sherberg commended the process, noting the contrast with the previous case. - Announcements: Planning Director Roger mentioned the next meeting on June 2, 2026, will include a presentation on the C‑board technical plan, applications for a tire company, Sarasota Memorial Hospital expansion, Family Promise affordable housing, and code changes for recovery residences. He also noted the Venice Beach Pavilion was added to the local register and an upcoming historic preservation forum on June 4, 2026.

The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board (HAPB) met on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers at the City of Venice, Florida. The board approved the April 9, 2026 minutes, approved a fence-height design alternative, approved a new single-story office building, and reviewed a draft historic structures survey. No members of the public signed up for audience participation, and no public comments were made on either public hearing. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the April 9, 2026 HAPB meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No general public speakers signed up, and no audience members spoke on the two public hearings. Public Hearing: PLAR26-0013 - 417 Nassau Street South (Fence Height Design Alternative) - Staff Planner Brittany Smith presented; the agent was Sam Hardie, AIA, of Beebe Design Studio; the owners/applicants were Samuel and Anna Mclean Joynson. The hearing was advertised on April 25, 2026. - Chair BB recused herself because her son-in-law owns Beebe Design Studio, and another board member presided over this item. - The request was filed under Chapter 87, Section 7.10.9D for a design alternative allowing a fence/wall above 6 feet. Staff described an 8-foot-tall portion at the front gate and a perimeter wall; staff initially identified the perimeter portion as 6 feet 8 inches, also requiring design alternative approval. - The applicant clarified that the perimeter wall is intended to be 6 feet, consistent with zoning, with only the gate feature rising to 8 feet. The applicant cited historic precedents in the district, including nearby homes on Nassau Street, for the architectural feature. - Staff required the plan set to be updated to show the perimeter wall at 6 feet, so the design alternative would apply only to the gate feature. The applicant agreed to update the packet. Public Hearing: PLAR26-0011 - 205 Harbor Drive North (Catholic Community Foundation Office) - Senior Planner Nicole Tremblay presented; the agent was John J. Holz of Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP; the owner/applicant was the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida, Inc. The hearing was advertised on April 25, 2026. - The applicant proposed demolishing the existing non-historic 1959 building and constructing a one-story, approximately 2,149-square-foot administrative office with a terracotta-colored metal barrel tile roof, stone base, stucco walls, recessed arches, projecting bays, brackets/corbels, and a medium gray aluminum cross. - Staff noted the project had been reviewed at a January 2026 pre-application meeting. The applicant expanded the stone base in response to earlier comments, but requested not to add additional window divisions because further divisions would diminish the cross design and its visual connection to Epiphany Cathedral. - Board discussion raised several clarifications: mechanical equipment must be screened from view; the front and side door material (an aluminum door with a wood-look veneer, likely mahogany or walnut) must be added to the application packet; the required color palette of 75% primary, 20% secondary, and 5% accent colors must be clearly called out; and the stucco finish should be updated from medium to fine. Staff noted these could be confirmed administratively on resubmittal. Presentation: Phase II Survey of Edgewood and Seaboard Draft - Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhamer presented the draft Phase II Historic Structures Survey prepared by Chronicle Heritage under a state grant. The consultant is scheduled to present the findings at the board's June meeting. - The survey documented 184 historic resources, including 143 newly identified resources, 41 previously recorded resources, and seven previously recorded resources that have been demolished. - Board members said they needed more time to absorb the large report and would provide more detailed comments when the consultant presents in June. One member noted Edgewood historically was a worker-housing area with a different character and less maintenance. - Planning and Zoning Director Roger Clark gave an update on the Seaboard area master plan. He said the consultant team includes John Nolen biographer Bruce Stevenson, no existing streets are proposed for change, and a new east-west street informally called Nolan Street is proposed. A technical plan for city-owned property will be presented to the Planning Commission on June 2 and to City Council in July. Board Discussion & Staff Comments - Staff reported that several previously approved projects have not proceeded. Approvals for the Venice Avenue and Miami Avenue projects have expired, and the site and development plan approval for 219 West Venice Avenue is expected to expire in June. The Circus project is still responding to site and development comments, but its previous approvals have expired and it will need to return to the board. The library project cleared site and development plan review and is assumed to be pursuing permits. - The Local Register forum was rescheduled to Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at the William H. Jervey Jr. Venice Public Library. Confirmed speakers include Kara Morgan from Venice Main Street, Joy Builders, the Klauses of 640 West Venice Avenue, Aaron DeFasio from the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation, and city staff. - Staff noted that Beth Martin from Sherwin Williams is ready to work with the board on a color palette. The board also discussed reviewing design guidelines, particularly color, at a future meeting. - Staff mentioned the recent unveiling of a local register plaque at Venice Beach Pavilion and a Seaboard storage facility that displays 14 historic photographs of the Seaboard area. Key Outcomes - Approved the April 9, 2026 minutes by unanimous voice vote. - Approved PLAR26-0013 (417 Nassau Street South) by roll-call vote, 6-0, with Chair BB recused. The design alternative permits the 8-foot-tall gate feature; the applicant must update the plan set to show the remaining perimeter wall at 6 feet. - Approved PLAR26-0011 (205 Harbor Drive North) by roll-call vote, 7-0, with four administrative stipulations: add the door material to the application packet, clearly call out the required color palette percentages, provide screening for mechanical equipment, and update the stucco finish to fine. - No formal action was taken on the Phase II Survey draft; the board deferred detailed comments until the consultant presentation in June.

The Venice City Council held a regular meeting on May 12, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM. The meeting featured five proclamations, public comment focused on airport concerns, approval of several consent items, and public hearings on a site plan appeal, school zone speed cameras, a comprehensive plan amendment, and a budget amendment. New business included appointment of a student advisory board member, policy discussion on airport management (including motions for a legal review and environmental assessment), direction on neighborhood workshop policies, and cancellation of the June 9 meeting. Proclamations - National Safe Boating Week (May 16-22, 2026): Presented to Master Police Officer Paul Joyce and representatives from multiple agencies. - National Police Week (May 11-17, 2026): Presented to Police Chief Andy Leisenring and honoring fallen officers. - Public Works Week (May 17-23, 2026): Presented to Public Works Director Ricky Simpson and staff; also recognized Rob Bodrett for 30 years of service. - Foster Care Month (May 2026): Presented to Nicole Britton, Executive Director of The TWIG, highlighting 368,500 children in U.S. foster care. - Faith and Family Month (June 2026): Presented to Jim Foubister, President of One Christ Won City, noting 31,000 meals served and 750,000 volunteer hours from local churches. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the April 28, 2026 regular meeting (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Valerie Waters (airport expansion): Requested CAP/TAP meetings be recorded; called for a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) addressing noise, water, air, wetlands, wildlife, land use, socioeconomic, traffic, climate, and environmental justice. Noted a 54% increase in aircraft operations from 2022 to 2024 and an additional 37% growth projected. - Chris Waters (airport expansion): Supported Valerie Waters' concerns; urged completion of environmental studies before any development plans advance, especially given increased jet traffic and impacts to John Nolen's vision. - Christine Davis (airport expansion): Revealed that a draft airport master plan dated August 2025 had already been submitted to FDOT without public knowledge; questioned the purpose of public meetings. Stated that the airport manager's requests (tower, fire station, taxiway changes, terminal) point toward CFR Part 139 certification for commercial aircraft (31+ passengers). Requested a true EIS and pause of the master plan. - Emily Santana (General Manager, Skyport Aviation): Clarified Skyport does not control the master plan; no current plans for scheduled commercial flights. Outlined mitigation measures: ground power units (GPUs) to reduce emissions/noise, electric golf carts, operational adjustments to direct exhaust away from residences. Noted decreased operations at Skyport and full environmental compliance (no spills). Supported voluntary FAA noise abatement. - Tanya Willard (airport): Requested that current (down) operation numbers be considered in projections. Opposed Part 139 designation; urged preservation of green space, especially the Deertown Gully headwaters (noting John Nolen's plan showed a lagoon). Mentioned a non-FAA virtual tower system used at Arcadia that could record flights and potentially charge landing fees. Asked for an airport director who listens to residents. - Janice Reardon (airport): Requested a halt to further expansion until a Part 150 noise study and full NEPA environmental assessment are completed. Emphasized that Venice is a small coastal city, not like Tampa/Naples; called for conservation grants to preserve open space south of Runway 23 and northwest corner of the airport. - Alex Almasan (Homeless for Hope volunteer): Expressed support for the city's Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) and requested additional VPD and counselor funding. Discussion Items - Appeal of Planning Commission Approval (26-03AP) – Site and Development Plan for 500/504 Gene Green Road (Ajax expansion): Attorneys for the applicant (Jeff Boone) and appellant (Darren Parks) agreed to a continuance to August 25, 2026, due to ongoing negotiations over an access easement safety issue. The appellant's attorney confirmed no opposition. Council unanimously granted the continuance. - Ordinance 2026-19 (First Reading) – School Zone Speed Detection for Venice Elementary: Police staff presented a two-day study showing 972 vehicles in the school zone with 270 violations (11+ mph over the 15 mph limit). The ordinance expands the school zone to run continuously from 6:15 AM to 4:15 PM. Council approved 7-0 on first reading and scheduled final reading. - Ordinance 2026-06 (Final Reading) – Comprehensive Plan Update for Mixed-Use Designations: Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-18 (Final Reading) – Budget Amendment 3 (increase revenues and expenditures by $4,916,229): Approved 7-0. - Appointment of Student Member to Citizen Advisory Board: Lily Smith appointed unanimously to serve June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027. - Airport Management and Policies (Item 26-0604, Councilman Howard): After public comments and council discussion, two motions were passed: 1. Motion (Howard): Direct staff to perform a legal review of the current lease with Skyport Aviation, initiate discussions on ground operations, and update airport operating standards, with a report back within 60 days. Passed 7-0. 2. Motion (Weed, amended to 'environmental review'): Direct airport staff to develop parameters for an environmental review of the airport property and neighboring areas (air quality, soil, water quality) and pursue vendor quotes. Passed 7-0. Council members (Weed, Frank, Howard, Engelke, Mayor Pachota) stated they would not support scheduled commercial flights. The City Manager clarified that the master plan does not authorize projects; environmental analysis will be included. A fact sheet addressing common terms is being produced. - In-Person Option for Land Use Neighborhood Workshops (Item 26-0605, Councilwoman Frank): Council directed staff to present the history of the city's neighborhood workshop policies, including data on how often in-person versus online options have been used. Passed 7-0. - Cancellation of June 9, 2026 Meeting: Approved 7-0, citing only a presentation scheduled and upcoming budget workshops. Key Outcomes - Continued the appeal (26-03AP) to August 25, 2026. - Approved first reading of school zone speed detection ordinance (2026-19). - Adopted comprehensive plan amendment (2026-06) and budget amendment 3 (2026-18). - Appointed Lily Smith to Citizen Advisory Board. - Passed two motions on airport: (1) legal/operational review in 60 days; (2) environmental review vendor quotes. - Directed staff to research neighborhood workshop history. - Canceled the June 9, 2026 regular meeting.

The City of Venice Special Magistrate for Code Enforcement held a hearing on May 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Council Chambers. Two matters were addressed: an old business case regarding a residential property and a citation appeal for a parking violation. The hearing concluded with a continuance for the property case and a dismissal of the parking citation. Old Business - Case CEBD24-005 (Mildred H. Neary): The city reported that the probate for the property had completed, with approximately 16 owners. The city requested a 30-day continuance to the June 3, 2026 hearing to coordinate with the permitting department and provide clear guidance to the respondent, Michael Neary (son of the deceased). Mr. Neary stated he had discussed the matter and was ready to proceed. The magistrate granted the continuance to June 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM. Citation Appeal - Case VPD26-00062 (Nellie O'Brien): Code Enforcement Officer Kimberly Brown testified that on March 18, 2026, at approximately 3:23 PM, she observed a blue 2024 Honda CRV (Florida tag 90BZP) parked in a marked handicap space at Centennial Park without a displayed placard. Photos were submitted as evidence. Ms. O'Brien contested the citation and provided photos showing her valid placard had fallen onto the dashboard, obscuring it from view. She explained that the placard had been on the rearview mirror but fell when she placed a box in the car. The officer stated she walked around the vehicle twice but could not see the placard. The city recommended dismissal with the $25 appeal fee forfeited as a zero fine. Key Outcomes - Continuance Granted: The court continued case CEBD24-005 to the June 3, 2026 special magistrate hearing at 10:00 AM. - Citation Dismissed: The magistrate found that respondent Nellie O'Brien did not violate Section 70-31(7) of the City Code; the citation was dismissed and the $25 appeal filing fee ordered refunded. - Next Hearing: The next special magistrate hearing is scheduled for June 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

The Venice City Council held its regular meeting on April 28, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM. The meeting included ceremonial swearing-in of five police officers, multiple proclamations, public hearings on four ordinances, approval of the FY27 Strategic Plan, a budget amendment, a quarterly financial update, approval of a mural, a priority access housing agreement, and direction on preparing for the sunset of Florida Senate Bill 180. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the April 8, 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Workshop and April 14, 2026 Regular Meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Brett Spengler (Glenwood Manor Board) read an FAA letter stating that the airport sponsor (city) is responsible for addressing ground-based airport noise and operations, not the FAA. He played a recording of engine run-up noise and urged council to take action. - Dennis King (President, Venice Aviation Society - VASI) expressed support for Ordinance 2026-18 (budget amendment for new terminal building), noting the existing 40-year-old terminal is non-compliant and needs replacement. He highlighted $5.5M in FAA/FDOT grants, $2.875M in restricted airport funds, and only $540,742 local share. - Paul Hollowell (Venice resident and airport tenant) supported the new administration building, describing water leaks, electrical and plumbing problems. He urged the city to counteract misinformation on social media about the airport. - Christina Davis criticized airport management for not maintaining the building and allowing metal structures inconsistent with John Nolen's vision. She called for environmental impact studies regarding jet particulates, noise, and pollution. - Madeline Zubik announced a protest at the Citizens Advisory Panel meeting on April 29, 2026, and questioned the lack of comprehensive environmental impact studies on jet pollution and waterway contamination. - Tracy Kehoe (resident) requested a dedicated noise abatement officer (not a community outreach officer) and praised Naples' approach to buying land at the airport to prevent development. She suggested making the airport a family-friendly destination. Discussion Items - Proclamations & Swearing-In: Ceremonial swearing-in of Police Officers Charlie Brown, Robert Escobedo, Gary Lipscomb, Zachary Beaudreault, and Michael O'Brien. Proclamations declared: May 10-16, 2026 as Nurses and Hospital Week; May 17-23 as Emergency Medical Services Week; May 3-9 as Municipal Clerk's Week; May 2026 as Building Safety Month and Historic Preservation Month; May 3-9 as National Travel and Tourism Week. - Public Hearings (Final Reading): - Ordinance 2026-12: Establishing the Venice Grand Oaks Community Development District. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-13: Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map amendment for 490 Substation Road from High Density Residential to Industrial. Approved 5-2. - Ordinance 2026-14: Zoning Map amendment for 490 Substation Road from RMF-1 to Industrial (quasi-judicial). Approved 6-1. - Ordinance 2026-17: Adding a Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) to the Municipal Firefighters' Pension Trust Fund. Approved unanimously. - Unfinished Business (Item 26-0572): Approve the Venice Strategic Plan for FY ending September 30, 2027. City Manager noted a change to language regarding JPA areas from specific acreage to "strategically appropriate." Approved unanimously. - New Business - Ordinance 2026-18: Budget Amendment 3 increasing revenues and expenditures by $4,916,229 (including funding for new airport terminal). Approved on first reading unanimously. - Quarterly Financial Update (Item 26-0590): Finance Director Linda Senne presented mid-year financials. General fund revenues on track; property taxes at 92% of budget. Expenditures noted for fleet (55% due to fuel tank purchase) and parks (80% due to Wellfield Park payment). Projected fund balance increased from $27.7M to $28.4M. Reserves remain at 25% policy target. - Old Betsy Mural (Item 26-0591): Citizens Advisory Board recommended approval of a mural on the rear of the Old Betsy Museum. Council discussion amended the design to change a Dalmatian to a golden retriever to represent the police department. Approved unanimously. - Priority Access to Housing Agreement (Item 26-0592): Agreement with Venice Avenue Apartments LLC to reserve units for city staff at a future affordable housing project. Mayor recused due to ownership interest. Assistant City Manager Roger Omanheiser noted the developer offered this for philanthropic reasons with no financial incentive. Approved unanimously (Mayor abstained). - SB 180 Sunset Preparation (Item 26-0593): Councilmember Engelke introduced a motion to direct charter officers to research and provide a list of items the city can implement after SB 180's sunset on October 1, 2027. City Manager confirmed a running list exists. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Ord. 2026-12 (Grand Oaks CDD): Unanimous approval. - Ord. 2026-13 (FLUM change): Approved 5-2. - Ord. 2026-14 (Zoning change): Approved 6-1. - Ord. 2026-17 (Firefighter DROP): Unanimous approval. - FY27 Strategic Plan: Unanimous approval. - Ord. 2026-18 (Budget Amendment 3): Unanimous approval on first reading. - Old Betsy Mural: Unanimous approval with amendment. - Priority Access to Housing Agreement: Unanimous approval (Mayor recused). - SB 180 preparation motion: Unanimous approval. - Next Steps: Staff to bring back list of SB 180 items; police staffing study report expected within a month; airport master plan continues with advisory panel meetings on April 29 and fall 2026; solid waste route changes begin June 1, 2026.

The Venice Planning Commission met on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included an annual presentation by Mayor Pachota and charter officers on board roles and procedures, followed by four quasi‑judicial public hearings. All agenda items were approved unanimously, with Commissioner Pam Sherberg (participating virtually) unable to vote due to audio failure. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 7 meeting and received a staff update on future meetings and stormwater design criteria. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 7, 2026 regular meeting were approved by a motion from Mr. McKeon, seconded by Mr. Jasper, with a unanimous voice vote. Annual Presentation by Mayor and Charter Officers - Mayor Pachota, City Manager Clinch, City Clerk Michaels, and City Attorney Fernandez presented an overview of board responsibilities, Sunshine Law compliance, meeting decorum, the legislative referral process, and the role of council liaisons. They emphasized that board members should prepare in advance, avoid ex‑parte communications, and remember that quasi‑judicial decisions must be based solely on the evidence presented. The mayor thanked the commission for their volunteer service and encouraged recruitment for other city boards. Flagship Medical Office Building (Design Alternative 25‑72DA & Site Plan 25‑41SP) - Project: A three‑story, 54,000‑square‑foot medical office building at 2695 Curry Lane, on a 5‑acre site zoned Office Professional & Institutional. The design alternative requested 9‑foot‑by‑18‑foot parking spaces (instead of the standard 10 × 18) for 39% of the 268 spaces (excluding handicapped). The site plan included a height exception (43 ft 4 in) previously granted by council, preservation of two heritage trees, and stormwater detention meeting city and SwiftMUD requirements. - Public Comments: No members of the public signed up to speak. - Commission Action: - Design Alternative: Motion by Mr. Jasper to approve based on compliance with design alternative criteria (Section 1.11.3). Seconded by Mr. Hale. Roll call: 6‑0 (Pam Sherberg not voting). - Site Plan: Motion by Mr. McKeon to approve as consistent with the comprehensive plan and land development code. Seconded by Mr. Hale. Roll call: 6‑0. Venito Townhouse Site and Development Plan (25‑45SP) - Project: A three‑story, six‑unit townhouse building at 816 Ormond Street on a 0.5‑acre parcel zoned Residential Multifamily‑3 (RMF3). The first floor contains parking garages; upper floors have living units. Staff reported a proposed height of 38 ft 7 in (including a 10‑ft understory parking allowance per code), but the applicant stated the final height as 48 ft 7 ¼ in; the city attorney clarified the code’s height definition. Amenities include underground stormwater retention, pervious pavers, and landscape buffers. - Public Comments – All speakers opposed the project: - Bert Matthews (809 Ormond St): Raised concerns about traffic, compatibility of mass/scale, and stormwater drainage. - Steve Rost (817 Madrid Ave): Opposed the height and privacy invasion from balconies overlooking backyards. - David Topian (825 Madrid Ave, civil engineer): Argued the building is too tall (could be lower), lighting and privacy impacts, and disputed stormwater claims. - Mary Topian: Concerned about flooding, lack of lighting plans, wind tunnel effects, and incompatibility with single‑family homes. - Dina Kolbecker: Focused on tree removal (42 trees counted) and loss of environmental benefits; called for stronger tree protection codes. - Glenn Spinelli (Che Vista condo president): Opposed stormwater discharge into existing Che Vista drain; called the building design incompatible. - Scott Slickers (Gulf Twin Towers): Requested that if approved, helical piles be used instead of driven piles to avoid vibration damage. - Nelson Rickner (Che Vista unit): Proposed a sump pump alternative; objected to drainage easement and site plan details. - Commission Discussion: Chair Wilson and Mr. Ferlaggi (who disclosed he lives nearby and had stopped an ex‑parte conversation) expressed sympathy but noted the application met all code criteria and that denial would require specific code‑based findings. The city attorney reminded the commission of the quasi‑judicial standard. - Action: Motion by Mr. Jasper to approve, seconded by Mr. McKeon. Roll call: 6‑0 (Pam Sherberg not voting). The motion carried. Chalets at Venice Preliminary Plat (25‑68PP) - Project: A 43‑lot single‑family residential subdivision on 10.12 acres at 282 North Auburn Road, zoned Planned Unit Development (PUD) with a mixed‑use residential future land use. Density is 4.25 units per acre. The binding master plan (previously approved by council) includes a 25‑ft perimeter landscape buffer, sidewalks, walking path, and stormwater managed through a pond discharging to Blackburn Canal. SwiftMUD has approved the ERP permit; a previously shown dry pond (L2) was not required. - Public Comments – All speakers opposed: - Jim Perry (Sawgrass resident): Questioned whether Blackburn Canal and Curry Creek can handle additional runoff from new development; noted lack of a comprehensive hydrological study; urged the commission to limit density. - Danny Swain (Auburn Road resident): Described flooding during recent hurricanes; said existing ditches already overflow; opposed further development. - Marilyn Moss (area resident): Raised ecological concerns about tree removal and loss of habitat; advocated for sustainable development. - Commission Discussion: No substantive debate; staff confirmed all city and SwiftMUD requirements met. - Action: Motion by Mr. Hale to approve as consistent with the comprehensive plan and land development code. Seconded by Mr. Jasper. Roll call: 6‑0 (Pam Sherberg not voting). Planning and Zoning Department Comments - Director Roger Clark announced the May 5, 2026 meeting is canceled (only one minor variance application, which will be moved to the May 19 meeting). He addressed public confusion about stormwater design standards, noting that developments must not increase runoff rate/amount over pre‑development conditions, but that hurricane events exceed design criteria. He and Chair Wilson discussed efforts to educate the public via presentations and the city’s story map. Commission Member Comments - Chair Wilson informed the commission that he will be absent from the July 7, 2026 meeting due to a pre‑planned trip. Adjournment The meeting adjourned.

The Citizens Advisory Board (CAB) convened on April 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included an annual presentation from the Mayor and Charter Officers, election of chair and vice chair, approval of a mural application, updates on the city website redesign, and a status report on hurricane after-action recommendations. The board also recognized outgoing student representative Hayden Hill and heard public comment. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the previous meeting unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan Horton presented copies of her book "The History of Venice Little League," which chronicles the history of the league, county-provided youth sports, and community fundraising efforts. The board thanked her for the contribution. Discussion Items - Annual Presentation by Mayor Pichota and Charter Officers: Mayor Pichota, City Clerk Kelly Michaels, City Manager James Clinch, and Assistant City Attorney Dan Lewis provided guidance on board responsibilities, sunshine law compliance, use of city email, attendance expectations, the role of council and staff liaisons, the legislative referral process, and best practices for maintaining decorum and crafting clear motions. The mayor also emphasized the need for board member recruitment and thanked the CAB for their service. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: Board members nominated and unanimously elected Roger Efron as Chair and Dr. Davis as Vice Chair (8-0 vote). - Old Betsy Mural Application: Historical Resources Manager Harry Klinkhammer presented a proposal for a mural depicting the Old Betsy fire truck on the back wall of 343 Nassau Street South (the Old Betsy Museum). The artist, Colleen Henry, stated the mural would take one to two months to complete, pending weather. The board voted unanimously to recommend the application to City Council (8-0). - Website Redesign Update: IT Director Roger Navarro and Project Manager Chuck Poor reported that vendor Granicus was selected after demos with a website advisory committee. The statement of work is nearing finalization, including a capped annual price increase. The board will receive a copy of the final statement of work. A vendor presentation is planned for the June meeting. The project is expected to take 6-8 months from start. - Hurricane After-Action Report Status: Fire Chief Frank Giddens and Assistant City Manager Roger Obenheiser presented progress on 43 recommendations from the city’s after-action report, aligning with 10 topics raised by the CAB. Key updates included: hiring a deputy public information officer; deploying Starlink Wi-Fi access points; establishing blue-sky sandbag operations 5-7 days before storms; improving evacuation zone education; enhancing debris removal contracts; completing the Tarpin Center flood mitigation project; updating damage assessment training; creating reunification protocols; strengthening volunteer partnerships (Rotary, Red Cross); and developing hurricane resource locations. The board discussed sandbag deployment criteria (96-hour window), the future of Wellfield Park (now county-owned), and distribution of the city-specific hurricane guide to HOAs. The city also completed the Flamingo Ditch feasibility study and received a grant for a broader watershed study. - Parks Master Plan: City Manager James Clinch announced that GAI Consultants were selected via competitive process to develop the parks master plan; contract approved. Key Outcomes - Unanimous election of Roger Efron as Chair and Dr. Davis as Vice Chair. - Old Betsy mural application recommended to City Council (8-0). - Website vendor selected; statement of work to be finalized by end of week. - Hurricane after-action recommendations are progressing; board encouraged proactive distribution of hurricane guides to HOAs. - Parks master plan contract awarded to GAI Consultants. - Next meeting scheduled for June 17, 2026 (quorum confirmed). - Student representative Hayden Hill recognized for his service.