Public Meetings - Venice, Florida

The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board (HAPB) met on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on a carport application that was continued, a pre-application discussion for a major renovation, training sessions on CLG programs and parliamentary procedures, and finalization of the board’s annual report to City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 8, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the Audience Participation portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – 326 Pedro Street (PLAR26-0001): Applicant Tooger Smith (co-owner) sought a Certificate of Architectural Compliance (CAC) for a new carport in the Historic Venice Architectural Control District. Staff (Brittany Smith, planner) presented the application; the applicant showed only a conceptual sketch. Board members noted that detailed drawings, site plans, elevations, material specifications, and dimensions were required. The applicant explained drawings were not yet completed. The board provided guidance on design (e.g., preferring a shed/flat roof to minimize visual impact, using columns that match the house, and considering operable shutters). After discussion, the board voted to continue the hearing to March 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers, with the applicant to return with complete drawings. - Pre-Application – 408 Venezia Parkway: Matt Marovich (general contractor, Lair Homes) and Bill Fey (project manager) presented preliminary plans for a multi-structure renovation on a historic estate. The project involves extending the main house, rebuilding a garage with an art studio, adding a covered porch to a guest house, and possibly constructing a new garage near an orchid house. The board offered comments: ensure window proportions are historic (e.g., avoid overly tall windows), consider operable shutters rather than fixed, use clay tile roofing throughout, and minimize the massing of new structures so they remain subservient to the main house. The board encouraged the applicant to pursue local historic designation to qualify for ad valorem tax exemptions. The applicant will refine plans and return for a formal CAC application in a future meeting, likely April or May. - Certified Local Government (CLG) Training – Presentation by Tyler J. Smith: Tyler Smith, CLG Coordinator for the Florida Division of Historical Resources, provided an overview of the CLG program, benefits (match‑waived grants up to $50,000, technical assistance, priority reviews), and economic impacts of historic preservation in Florida ($4.2 billion annually, 123,000 jobs). He reviewed the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and best practices for board review, emphasizing careful motion crafting, objectivity, and reliance on design guidelines. He also discussed available grants (small matching, special category up to $1M) and upcoming webinars. - Parliamentary Procedures and Meeting Procedures Refresher – Presented by Tony Gregory (Deputy Clerk): Tony Gregory reviewed Robert’s Rules of Order basics, proper motion wording, handling ex parte communications, and new technology in chambers (electronic voting and request‑to‑speak systems). Board members were reminded to check city email, avoid side conversations, and arrive 10 minutes early. - Discussion – HAPB Annual Report to City Council: Roger (staff) presented a draft annual report summarizing the past year’s achievements (five CAC decisions, two local register nominations, one ad valorem recommendation, a successful local register forum in May). The board discussed proposed priorities for the coming year: continue CAC review, maintain the Legacy Awards program (general consensus to continue), conduct community education seminars, encourage local register applications from surveyed properties, and finalize an update to the approved color palette. The board also discussed the impact of Senate Bill 180 on reviewing non‑Nolen local register properties. Chairman Beebe will present the report to City Council on February 24, 2026. Key Outcomes - Carport Hearing Continued: The application for 326 Pedro Street was continued to March 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers, with the applicant instructed to provide complete architectural drawings. - Pre‑Application Guidance Provided: The board offered design recommendations for 408 Venezia Parkway. The applicant will return with detailed plans for a formal CAC review in a future meeting (likely April or May). - Annual Report Finalized: The board agreed on the content of the annual report to City Council; Chairman Beebe will present it on February 24, 2026. - Legacy Awards Program to Continue: The board expressed support for continuing the annual Legacy Awards, with possible refinements to criteria. - Future Grant Opportunities: The CLG training highlighted that grant applications open April 1, 2026. The board may consider prioritizing survey or preservation planning projects for the match‑waived $50,000 small matching grant. - Next Local Register Forum: Scheduled for May 14, 2026 at 5:30 PM at the library; staff will circulate a recap of last year’s forum for board input.

The Venice City Council met on February 10, 2026, to conduct regular business including recognitions, public hearings, and approvals. Key actions included unanimous approval of multiple annexation, zoning, and comprehensive plan amendments, adoption of capital and EMS fee policies, and a quarterly financial update. Recognition - Kevin Barrett received a 35-year service award. He began with the city in 1991 and was recognized for his leadership in stormwater and public works. - Matthew Tomer, Division Chief of Fire Rescue Logistics, was named 2025 Employee of the Year. He was recognized for his role in managing the $25 million Fire Station 52 project and his calm presence during emergencies. - Barry Snyder, Planning Commission Chair, was recognized for 18 years of service. He led the commission through over 700 land use applications and rewrites of the comprehensive plan and land development regulations. Public Comments & Testimony - Lewis Williams, a Venice resident and avid biker, advocated for using the road damaged by Hurricane Milton to create a unique bike path with rickshaw rentals, dune buggies, and other amenities. He stated, "Milton gave us lemons, let's make lemonade." Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the January 9, 2026 budget workshop, January 13 regular meeting, and January 16 convocation of governments. - Authorized the Mayor to execute a fourth amendment to the lease with Agape Flights, Inc. for a new aircraft hangar at the airport. All consent items passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Planning Commission Chair Barry Snyder presented the commission's annual report. He noted that 70 applications were handled in the past year, with 61% (43 applications) having the planning commission as the final decision authority. He highlighted trends including an increase in design alternatives and a decrease in site development plans. Snyder recommended stronger linkage between the city's strategic planning and the comprehensive plan and raised concerns about term alignment for planning commission appointments. Public Hearings – First Reading (Re-noticed) - Ordinances 2025-37, 2025-38, and 2025-39 were re-heard on first reading due to a publication error in the wrong county. These involve annexation of 5 acres on Curry Lane, a comprehensive plan amendment to Institutional Professional, and a rezoning to Office, Professional and Institutional (OPI) for a medical office building. Staff reported that Southwest Florida Water Management District issues had been resolved, so no stipulation was needed. All three ordinances passed unanimously with a scheduled final reading. - Ordinance 2026-01 (continued from January 13) rezoned 10.73 acres at the northeast corner of Auburn and Border Road from Sarasota County Open Use Rural to City of Venice Residential Single Family 3 (RSF-3). A stipulation was added limiting development to no more than 26 single-family detached homes (down from the 54 units allowed by density). The ordinance passed unanimously on first reading with the stipulation. Public Hearings – Final Reading - Ordinance 2026-02 amended the Land Development Code to allow single-family detached, single-family attached, and two-family dwellings/paired villas as permitted uses in the Knights Trail Mixed Use District. Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-03 annexed 7.3± acres at 2327 Ewing Drive (Clark Family Trust). Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-04 amended the comprehensive plan future land use map for 2327 Ewing Drive from Sarasota County Rural to City of Venice Medium Density Residential. Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-05 rezoned 2327 Ewing Drive from Sarasota County Open Use Estate 1 to City of Venice Residential Multifamily 3 (RMF-3). Adopted unanimously. New Business – Resolutions - Resolution 2026-04 adopted a new Capital/Fixed Asset Policy, rescinding Resolution 2014-16. Passed unanimously. - Resolution 2026-05 adopted a revised schedule of Emergency Medical Aid fees, adding a lift assist fee, superseding Resolution 2025-13. Councilmember Weed noted the fees are automatically adjusted by CPI, but the update was needed to add a new fee. Passed unanimously. Presentation - Finance Director Linda Senne presented the first quarter fiscal year 2026 financial update. Key points: 84% of property taxes collected; general fund reserves projected to decrease to $27.7 million from $33.2 million, primarily due to the $5 million Wellfield Park payment. Other revenues were on track. No material threats to FY26 were identified, but potential state cuts to communication services tax ($1.6 million) and business tax receipts could impact FY27. Council Action/Discussion - Approved a Pre-Annexation Agreement with iHeartMedia and Entertainment, Inc. for the Chalets at Venice project (item 26-0496). Unanimous. - Appointed Helen Moore to the Historic and Architectural Preservation Board for a term ending August 31, 2028. Motion by Councilmember Frank passed 6-1 (Vice Mayor Bolt dissenting). - Motion by Mayor Pachota to keep the application period open for two Planning Commission seats for one more cycle. Passed unanimously. - Approved a letter of support from the Mayor for Sarasota County’s Lorraine Road Extension project to assist the county in obtaining state appropriations. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - All items requiring a vote passed with majority support except the HAPB appointment, which had one dissenting vote. - A stipulation was attached to Ordinance 2026-01 limiting the Auburn/Border Road development to 26 single-family homes. - Planning Commission term alignment issues are being addressed for future appointments. - The city is recruiting members for the Citizen Tax Oversight Board (3 vacancies, meets annually). - New Assistant City Manager Roger Omanheiser (retired U.S. Coast Guard) started with the city. Charter Officer Reports - City Attorney: Noted that the planning commission term misalignment has been identified and will be rectified with the next round of appointments. - City Clerk: Requested council assistance in recruiting three members for the Citizen Tax Oversight Board, which meets once a year to oversee penny tax funds. - City Manager: Announced the onboarding of Assistant City Manager Roger Omanheiser, who brings 24 years of U.S. Coast Guard experience. Council Reports - Councilmembers Frank and Weed reported on participation in the Venice High School celebrity reading program. - Councilmember Engelke reported on a trip to Tallahassee to meet with state legislators and advocate for city priorities. - Mayor Pachota reported on several community events, including the upcoming John Nolan statue unveiling (Feb 18), Venice Airport Day (March 7), and the annual bike ride with the mayor (March 5).

The Special Magistrate convened on February 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM in the Council Chambers to hear a single code enforcement case, CEBD24-005 involving property once owned by Mildred H. Neary. The city requested and was granted a 90-day continuance due to ongoing probate proceedings and the need to finalize a homestead declaration to transfer the property to heirs. Old Business: CEBD24-005 – Mildred H. Neary - City Attorney Daniel P. Lewis presented the case, noting the property owner died 11 years ago and the estate is in probate under summary administration. An amended petition to declare the property homestead has been filed; if approved, the order would effectively deed the property to all heirs, including Mr. Neary who was present. - Mr. Neary briefly stated he had spoken with a contractor and was handling the property. - The city requested a 90-day continuance (instead of 30 days) to allow the court order to be issued, permits to be obtained, and work to be completed. Key Outcomes - The Special Magistrate granted a continuance until May 6, 2026 for the next code enforcement hearing. No other actions were taken. - The meeting adjourned shortly after the continuance was granted.

The Venice Planning Commission met on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 1:30 PM. The primary agenda items were two quasi-judicial hearings related to the Venice Isle project: a design alternative (Case 25-55DA) and a site and development plan (Case 25-13SP). Due to a staff error in notifying the applicant of the correct meeting date, both hearings were continued to the February 17, 2026 meeting. The commission also approved the minutes from the January 20, 2026 meeting and received an update from the Planning and Zoning Director on the CBO district planning. Consent Calendar - Approved the January 20, 2026 regular meeting minutes as presented (motion by Mr. Wilson, seconded, all in favor). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during audience participation. Discussion Items - Venice Isle Hearings (25-55DA and 25-13SP): Both petitions were opened together as quasi-judicial hearings. Staff planner Brittany Smith began presentation on the site and development plan (25-13SP) but was interrupted by the city attorney who noted that the date sent to the applicant was incorrect, though the published advertisement was correct. The commission voted to continue both items to the February 17, 2026 meeting without further advertising, pending corrected notification to the applicant. No testimony was taken. - Planning and Zoning Director Update: Roger (Planning and Zoning Director) reported that the initial meeting with CBO consultants and the technical working group went well. The consultants are developing a technical plan for the first phase, focusing on street-level design for John Nolan Street and the adjacent C-Board section near city property. The city’s fleet and solid waste operations have moved to a new location, freeing up space. He noted that Mr. Snyder's term on the commission may be ending around the end of February. Key Outcomes - Continued Case 25-55DA (Venice Isle Design Alternative) to the February 17, 2026 Planning Commission meeting. - Continued Case 25-13SP (Venice Isle Site and Development Plan) to the February 17, 2026 Planning Commission meeting. - Approved the January 20, 2026 meeting minutes. - Staff will correct the notification error and confirm applicant availability for the next meeting.

The Venice Planning Commission met on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The commission approved two quasi-judicial petitions: a site and development plan for a 12,000-square-foot hangar addition for Agape Flights, and a sign variance for Lord-Higel's Coffee House. The meeting also included approval of prior minutes and an annual report from the Planning and Zoning Department. Consent Calendar - Minutes of January 6, 2026: Approved unanimously by a voice vote (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony Agape Hanger Addition (Petition 24-46SP) - Tom Martin (resident at 217 Airport Ave W): Expressed concern that Agape Flights departs from Runway 13 instead of the designated noise abatement Runway 23, requesting the operator be a better neighbor. - Russ Grotering (property owner): Raised concerns about a historically documented bald eagle nesting area in the wooded portion of the proposed site, citing Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission maps. - Larry Luber (resident of Bellagio Island and volunteer landscaper for Agape): Spoke in full support of Agape's mission and the hangar expansion, stating he would accept additional aircraft noise. Lord-Higel's Coffee House Variance (Petition 25-76VZ) - Howard Burke (resident directly across the street): Opposed the variance, arguing the sign is unnecessary due to existing visibility, generating traffic and parking issues, and that a 12.6-square-foot projecting sign would be distracting and inappropriate for a residential area. Discussion Items Agape Hanger Addition - Staff (Nicole Tremblay) presented the request for a minor site and development plan amendment to add a 12,000-square-foot hangar on 2.02 acres (Mixed-Use Airport future land use, Government zoning). The plan meets all code requirements for setbacks, lot coverage, and height (30 feet, under the 35-foot limit). Parking was approved administratively with a 10% reduction. A stipulation was added requiring City Council approval of an amended lease before construction. - Applicant (Alan Speer, CEO of Agape Flights) described the organization's 45-year history of delivering humanitarian aid to the Caribbean, emphasizing the expansion's role in increasing cargo capacity and fleet growth. He noted that the SwiftMUD permit for stormwater had already been obtained. - Commissioners asked about the bald eagle issue; staff and the applicant confirmed that no active nests were present and no environmental mitigation was required. The noise complaint was noted but considered outside the scope of the site plan review. Lord-Higel's Coffee House Variance - Staff presented the request for a variance to allow a projecting sign of approximately 12.6 square feet, exceeding the 4-square-foot maximum in the Land Development Code. The property is a historic home on a government-zoned parcel. The seven variance criteria were reviewed; staff noted no staff error was involved. - Applicant (Alyssa Williams, leaseholder) argued that the larger sign is needed for visibility from Granada Street and Avenue de Parks (45 feet from the building to the road, compared to 7–13 feet on Miami/Venice Avenues), improving wayfinding and safety for drivers. She stated the sign meets wind load standards (ASCE 7-22) and can be removed during hurricanes. - Commissioners expressed support, noting the historic nature of the property and the coffee house's community value. Annual Report from Planning and Zoning Department - Roger Clark, Planning and Zoning Director, presented the annual report to be delivered to City Council on February 10, 2026. Key points: 70 petitions reviewed in the past year (up from 62 the prior year); the Comprehensive Plan update was found in compliance by the state after an in-house effort; upcoming work includes the Parks Master Plan (consultant selection pending). - Chair Snyder (completing his 18th year on the commission) noted the changing nature of planning as the Joint Planning Agreement nears its end, with about 1,200 acres remaining for potential annexation. He indicated this would be his last presentation to Council, though his term continues until a replacement is appointed. Key Outcomes - Agape Hanger Addition (24-46SP): Approved 6-0 with the stipulation that an amended lease must be approved by City Council before construction begins. - Lord-Higel's Coffee House Variance (25-76VZ): Approved 6-0, allowing a projecting sign of approximately 12.6 square feet. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for February 3, 2026, to consider a residential site and development plan on Nicomas Avenue.

The Venice City Council met on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in Council Chambers in Venice, Florida. The meeting included recognition ceremonies, the consent calendar, quasi-judicial land-use hearings, an airport master plan briefing, a Venice Beach Yoga update, a strategic planning preview, and a crosswalk directive. Votes were by electronic roll call; all items on the consent calendar passed without discussion. Recognition & Ceremonial Items - U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Pete presented a Certificate of Merit to Venice Police Officer Brett Woodworth for assisting a Nov. 15–16, 2025 search-and-rescue case. Woodworth found a social media video showing a compass heading of 220, helping narrow a search area spanning more than 600 square miles in the Gulf of America. The overdue 26-foot vessel was located about 30 nautical miles west of Boca Grande, Florida, less than two hours later, and all eight people aboard were recovered in good condition. - Council recognized Jeff Hackett, Engineer/Stormwater Technician II, for 10 years of city service; announced Elena Hopper, a 5th grader at Venice Elementary, as the 2025 holiday card contest winner from roughly 100 entries; presented 2025 holiday parade awards to the listed organizations; and proclaimed January 16, 2026 as Florida Arbor Day, presented to City Arborist Jim Yelverton and Parks Maintenance Specialist I John Perkins. Consent Calendar - The Consent Section was approved by one motion with no discussion and no items removed. It included the December 9, 2025 meeting minutes; the US Army Corps of Engineers Shore Protection Project cooperation agreement for the Venice segment; the FOP CBA memorandum of understanding regarding new hires with prior law enforcement experience; the FDLE Byrne JAG grant agreement for a police e-bike; and FDEP State Revolving Fund Amendment 3 adding Water Main Replacement Phase 8B to loan DW580480. Public Comments & Testimony - Joan Farrell urged Council to resolve ongoing Venice Beach Yoga disruptions, describing incidents including a New Year's Day vehicle break-in at Friendship Senior Center and a donation bag loss of about $300. She said the yoga instructor has used the beach for 18 years and opposed moving the class 40–50 feet closer to the lifeguard stand. - Dennis King, president of the Venice Aviation Society (VASI) and past EAA Chapter 1285 president, supported the airport master plan, VASI's voluntary fly-friendly noise procedures, a possible control tower, scholarships, and a proposed Venice Aviation Center. He said a tower would not increase traffic volume or attract larger aircraft. - Jeffrey Boone, attorney for a nearby property owner, supported the Knights Trail text amendment, saying it would allow townhome buyers to own the unit fee simple rather than as a condominium, with no change in what would be built. - Steve Carr, chair of the Central Venice Coalition, opposed the Laurel Road rezone, arguing it was needed mainly for a car wash, car washes were not unique in the area, and the council should deny the request. - Airport tenants Paul Hallowell and John Mochel urged prompt development of T-hangars, noted a waiting list, described hurricane damage and underinsurance, and praised current airport management and Skyport for improved transparency. Discussion Items - Citizens Advisory Board: Chair Roger Efron presented the board's annual report and 2026 proposed agenda priorities. Council unanimously approved priorities A, B, C, and G; items D, E, and F were stated to have been folded into standing priorities. - Airport Master Plan: Ricondo and Associates presented a progress update and FAA-approved aviation forecast. The baseline forecast projects total operations rising from about 96,000 in FY2024 to 131,000 in 2044, a 1.6% average annual increase, with based aircraft rising from 195 to 267. A high-growth sensitivity scenario uses 2.4% annual growth; the critical aircraft is projected to remain a C2-class business jet. Council discussed control tower justification, noise, T-hangars, airport-owned land, and preservation of general-aviation character. Council consensus directed a letter inviting FAA district leadership to public sessions. - Strategic Planning Agenda: City Manager James Clinch previewed the February 2, 2026 strategic planning session, to begin at 8:30 a.m. at Community Hall with facilitator Doug Thomas, including vision/mission review and eight emerging strategic topics. - Venice Beach Yoga Update: City staff and VPD reported Sarasota County is the permitting agency; the yoga permit designates Site Plan 4, but the instructor has operated south of that area. Suggested low-impact solutions included a rope/perimeter delineation, cones, and a rules sandwich board. From December 10, 2025 to January 9, 2026, VPD conducted 34 security checks, 3 patrol requests, and 6 additional contacts; the COT officer also met six times with the individual involved. As of the update, there had been 19 consecutive days without disruption. Law enforcement noted that exclusive permit rights and enforcement are clearer when the activity is within the designated permitted space. - Crosswalk Request: Mayor Pachota moved to direct staff to research and take necessary action to install a crosswalk at Valencia and Harbor Drive, citing pedestrian access to Blaylock Park and the cultural campus. The motion passed unanimously. Public Hearings – First Reading - Ordinance 2026-01 (Auburn/Border Road rezoning): Staff and the applicant presented a request to rezone 10.73 acres from Sarasota County Open Use Rural to RSF-3, with a proposed maximum of 54 dwelling units, about 25% below a prior 72-unit request. Council discussion raised concerns about density, flooding, drainage, and I-75 proximity. An initial motion to approve was rescinded, and Council unanimously continued the item to February 10, 2026. - Ordinance 2026-02 (Knights Trail text amendment): Council approved the text amendment on first reading, including staff revisions correcting the permitted-use table, and scheduled it for final reading. The vote was unanimous. - Ordinance 2026-03 (2327 Ewing Drive annexation): Council approved annexation of the 7.3-acre property on first reading unanimously. The agenda identifies petitioner Mary L. Clark, Trustee of the Clark Family Trust; staff and applicant also referred to the same property as Baker Trust Ewing. - Ordinance 2026-04 (Ewing Drive comprehensive plan amendment): Council approved the Medium Density Residential future land use change on first reading by a 6-1 vote, with Councilmember Weed dissenting based on density and urban-sprawl indicator concerns. The approval included a stipulation that the 300-foot northern setback/buffer prohibit buildings and parking. - Ordinance 2026-05 (Ewing Drive RMF-3 rezoning): Council approved the rezoning on first reading unanimously, with the same 300-foot building-and-parking restriction incorporated. Public Hearings – Final Reading - Ordinance 2025-36 (2001 Laurel Road rezone to Laurel West): Council adopted the zoning map amendment by a 5-2 vote. Councilmembers Frank and Smith were the no votes; Mr. Carr's public opposition was noted, and staff reminded Council the decision was on the rezoning, not a conditional use. - Ordinances 2025-37, 2025-38, and 2025-39 were not considered because they will be rescheduled and re-noticed due to an advertising error. - Ordinance 2025-45 (Historic and Architectural Preservation Board membership): Council unanimously adopted the text amendment changing Venice MainStreet membership from a requirement to a preference. Resolutions and Utility Easement - Resolution 2026-02 renaming the Centennial Park Gazebo the Robert and Susan Vedder Gazebo was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2026-01 vacating a portion of right-of-way at 661 S. Tamiami Trail was adopted unanimously. - Council unanimously authorized the Mayor to accept the utility easement between 661 S. Tamiami Trail, Inc. and the City. Charter Officer and Council Reports - The City Attorney noted the start of the 2026 legislative session. - The City Clerk requested help recruiting board and committee members, including Planning Commission, HAPB, Citizen Tax Oversight Committee, and Community Rating System. - The City Manager provided updates on the Fire Station 2 walkthrough, the South Jetty report scheduled for February, a new stormwater grants coordinator starting soon, and two finalists for assistant city manager. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - CAB 2026 priorities A, B, C, and G approved unanimously. - Auburn/Border Road rezoning continued to February 10, 2026. - Knights Trail text amendment, Ewing annexation, and Ewing RMF-3 rezoning advanced on first reading; Ewing FLUM amendment advanced 6-1. - Laurel Road rezone adopted 5-2; HAPB ordinance adopted unanimously. - Gazebo naming, right-of-way vacation, and utility easement all approved unanimously. - Council directed staff to proceed with the Valencia and Harbor Drive crosswalk. - Council authorized a letter inviting FAA district leadership to airport master plan public engagement. - Airport master plan and beach yoga monitoring will continue with public workshops and county coordination.

The Historic and Architectural Preservation Board met on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 9:00 AM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on an ad valorem tax exemption for a property on the local register and a pre-application discussion for a new commercial building. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the November 13, 2025 meeting unanimously. - The board excused the absence of member Mr. Green. Public Hearing: 500 Nassau Street South – Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Recommendation - Staff: Harry Klinkhamer, Historical Resources Manager, presented the application for a 4-year ad valorem tax exemption for improvements to a property at 500 Nassau Street South, owned by Michael and Alice Jeromin. The property is on the Local Register of Historical Resources. The work had been previously approved via a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) and meets Secretary of the Interior standards. - Applicant Michael Jeromin expressed gratitude and stated they are committed to a first-class restoration, noting the project is expensive but they aim to make the neighborhood proud. - Board members commended the applicant for their preservation efforts and stated that the building is an example that even a deteriorated structure can be properly restored with care and financial backing. - A motion to approve the application for recommendation to City Council was made, seconded, and passed unanimously via roll call: all board members present voted yes. - Next steps: The recommendation will go to City Council for two readings and a city ordinance. Staff also will assist the applicants in applying for a similar county tax exemption. Discussion Item: Pre-Application for 205 Harbor Drive North - Staff: Brittany Smith, planner, introduced the pre-application for demolition and rebuild at 205 Harbor Drive North. The applicant is the Catholic Community Foundation of Southwest Florida. - Architect John Holtz presented a preliminary design for a 2,100 square foot one-story commercial building with a Venice theme aesthetic, including stucco, cast stone base, metal tile roof, arched elements, and ornamental tile. The site is not in a floodplain and proposed five parking spaces with a possible agreement for additional parking at the adjacent cathedral. - Board members provided feedback: - Concern about window proportions: suggested more vertical proportions and divided lights to relate to the residential context of the street. - Recommended a more pronounced water table or base band (cast stone band currently too minimal). - Advised against shiny metal brackets; prefer wood or stucco with matte finish. - Requested more context in future submittals (site plan, aerial view, neighboring properties). - Noted that the design appropriately references the new cathedral across the street. - Expressed general approval of the roof material and rhythm of bays. - The board encouraged the applicant to incorporate feedback and proceed with a formal Certificate of Appropriateness application. Board Discussion & Staff Comments - The board discussed the annual report to City Council, which must be prepared in the first quarter. - Staff announced that a historic preservation brochure is now available at the museum and planning office. - Staff reported the kickoff meeting for the Edgewood and Seaboard Historic Resources Survey project, which will be conducted by Chronicle Heritage. - It was noted that the CBoard area master plan is moving forward with a technical working group meeting that afternoon. - A code change was adopted to make a Main Street board membership preferred but not required. - Update on expired approvals: Several projects (Venice Avenue, Miami Avenue, Comcast building, circus property) have expired approvals and will need to come back before the board. The circus project currently has a new application under review. The 219 building site development plan expires in June; potential buyers are informed. - Discussion about a cleared lot on South Harbor Drive: staff will investigate if it is in the historic district. - An educational seminar on the local register was discussed; staff mentioned a February roundtable hosted by the Sarasota Alliance featuring the Jeromins. - The board expressed interest in repeating the local register seminar. Key Outcomes - Approved recommendation to City Council for ad valorem tax exemption for 500 Nassau Street South (unanimous). - Provided guidance for the 205 Harbor Drive pre-application; formal application expected later. - Staff to prepare annual report and continue outreach on historic preservation programs.

Code Enforcement Special Magistrate Hearing – January 7, 2026\n\nThe City of Venice Code Enforcement Special Magistrate convened on January 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM to hear one old business case (CEBD24-005) involving a property owned by the estate of Mildred H. Neary. The property has been under a violation order since October 2025, requiring either repair or demolition. Due to ongoing probate proceedings and the absence of a personal representative, no permits have been obtained and no action taken.\n\n Old Business: CEBD24-005 – Mildred H. Neary\n\nCity Code Enforcement Officer Kimberly Brown presented the case. She noted that the property remains in probate with no personal representative appointed. A formal petition to declare the property homestead has been filed, but the probate case has not closed. The city had sent notice to all potential heirs. The respondent, Mr. Neary (son of the decedent), stated he attempted to apply for permits but was told he is not the legal owner. He has contacted a contractor but is uncertain about his standing. The Special Magistrate expressed frustration with the delay but acknowledged that without a party with legal authority to obtain permits, a finding of violation and fines would be inappropriate.\n\n Key Outcomes\n\n- The Special Magistrate continued the case to the next hearing on February 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM.\n- The city will contact Attorney Maury (representing the estate) to provide a status update on the probate proceedings for the next hearing.\n- No fines were imposed; the matter remains open pending resolution of the ownership status.

The Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 6, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered several quasi-judicial petitions, including a variance, a conditional use for an RV park, and three related Home Depot applications (conditional use, design alternative, and site plan), plus a legislative comprehensive plan amendment. All items were approved, with one dissenting vote on the Venice Bay Adult Park conditional use. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 2, 2025 meeting: Approved unanimously (7-0) as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - 25-71CU (Venice Bay Adult Park): Sam Dunley, a nearby resident, expressed concerns that new FEMA elevation requirements would make it difficult for elderly residents to access raised homes and that investors are buying lots, potentially changing the character of the park. He supported allowing RVs as a flexible, movable option and stated that most residents do not care about the distinction between RVs and mobile homes. - 25-52CU/53DA/51SP (Home Depot): Steve Carr, chair of the Central Venice Coalition, requested postponement of the site plan approval to allow city, county, and state officials to address safety at Laurel Nokomis School during drop-off/pickup and the unresolved intersection of Pinebrook Road, Honore, and Laurel Road. He noted 27,216 daily trips projected for the full Venice Crossing development. - Bill Cantrell, president of the Nokomis Area Civic Association, spoke on behalf of over 400 members, requesting a binding concept plan for the entire Venice Crossing development to ensure coordinated design, traffic interconnectivity, stormwater management, and gateway aesthetics. He expressed concern that parcel-by-parcel approvals without a master plan would lead to inadequate mitigation. Discussion Items - 25-65VZ (Variance – 114 Corte Del Asolo): Staff presented a request for relief from a 5-foot setback for an existing screened enclosure that encroaches by a few inches. The enclosure was permitted in 2002 but may have been a staff error. The current owners discovered the issue when purchasing and wish to resolve it for future sale. Commissioners noted the minimal encroachment, the age of the structure, and the common-sense nature of the request. - 25-71CU (Venice Bay Adult Park Conditional Use): Staff explained that the applicant, Venice Bay Adult Park Inc., seeks approval to place RVs on four parcels that historically housed RVs but were destroyed by hurricanes. The RVs must meet flood insurance and temporary use standards (≤180 days or fully licensed/travel-ready). The association needs the rental income (over $50,000 annually) to keep fees low. Commissioners discussed monitoring requirements and noted that RVs are a legitimate affordable housing option. The park has existed since 1947. - 25-52CU/53DA/51SP (Home Depot Applications): Staff and applicant presented a comprehensive case for a 106,651 sq ft retail store with a 28,156 sq ft garden center on 11.29 acres within the Venice Crossing Commercial Center. The conditional use allows outdoor sales/display; the design alternative requests (1) wall signs up to 579 sq ft (vs. 400 sq ft max), (2) reduced landscape divider medians to accommodate seasonal sales/truck rental, and (3) 20-foot light fixtures at the perimeter instead of 15 feet. The applicant argued the changes are efficient, safe, and mitigate impacts due to the site's interior location and generous setbacks (e.g., 316 ft front setback). Traffic analysis shows the project uses only 115 PM peak hour trips from the approved 1,208 for the master plan; no capacity issues were identified. Commissioners questioned lighting placement, traffic coordination with the school, and interconnectivity via Twin Laurel Boulevard. Staff confirmed coordination with Sarasota County, FDOT, and the school district; a new traffic signal at Chillingham Avenue is being installed; and the school requested a sidewalk relocation. No opposition from county, city, or school transportation officials. - 25-73CP (Annual Development Data Update): Staff presented the annual monitoring report required by the Comprehensive Plan, which tracks development in the city's seven mixed-use neighborhoods. Key change: the hospital area was reclassified as Planned Public Hospital (PPH) to better reflect land use proportions. The report shows Knights Trail mixed use corridor is at 98% residential capacity (only 40 units left) and Laurel Road corridor at 76% non-residential. No substantive issues raised. Key Outcomes - 25-65VZ Variance: Approved unanimously (7-0). - 25-71CU Venice Bay Adult Park Conditional Use: Approved 6-1 (one dissenting vote, not specified). - 25-52CU Home Depot Conditional Use: Approved unanimously (7-0). - 25-53DA Home Depot Design Alternative: Approved unanimously (7-0). - 25-51SP Home Depot Site and Development Plan: Approved unanimously (7-0). - 25-73CP Comprehensive Plan Amendment (Annual Data Update): Recommended approval to City Council unanimously (7-0). - An excused absence for Commissioner Hale at the next meeting was approved unanimously.