High Springs Plan Board Recommends Zoning Change to Commercial Intensive

HIGH SPRINGS ‒ The High Springs Plan Board on Aug. 21 approved two requests for recommendation to the High Springs City Commission for consideration.

In a 4-1 vote, the Board approved a request by Josh Blackford, Turnsole Builders, to change the zoning on two parcels consisting of a total of 2.39 +/- acres from R1 (Residential) to C3 (Commercial Intensive).

City of High Springs Planning Technician Kristyn Adkins said that the property, located on U.S. Highway 441, would be consistent with other properties in the area if the Board chose to rezone to C3. Following discussion, the Board voted 4-1, with Board member Mark Bertocci casting the dissenting vote, to recommend approval to the City Commission.

The Board also considered a site plan application presented Josh Highlander, contractor and civil engineer for a project on behalf of LifeSpring Church. The property is in the 15000 block of Northwest State Road 45 (U.S. Highway 41/27). City staff recommended approval of the application.

A point of concern voiced was about the adequacy of the retention pond. Highlander said that the water management district now requires engineers to prepare for several sequential storms when determining the size of retention ponds and that has been done on this property.

The church structure is 8,900 square feet under roof, but the number of church members is approximately 100. “The church is situated in the center of the property, approximately 200 feet away from homes,” Highlander said. The property will be served by a private well and septic tank. Highlander said also that there is a significant buffer around the property.

Following discussion, the Board voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Commission.

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