Surprises on the Agenda!
The first and second regular agenda items for May 2 were the 2nd Reading of the Workforce Housing Ordinance modifications. In a big surprise to many in the audience, Commissioner Joseph raised a concern about the Ordinance being on the Agenda May 2 because of changes that had occurred since the 1st Reading. Specifically, she was concerned that the passage of the Live Local Act had impacts on the ordinance and those changes should be considered before the Ordinance is heard. Commissioner Dean also raised concerns about the reading of the Ordinance. He indicated a need for time periods on when workforce housing could be “flipped.” An additional point of concern for Commissioner Dean was a definition of what is “affordable.” After discussion, Commissioner Joseph made a motion that the Workforce Housing Ordinance be delayed to the first Meeting in June (June 6) to give the County time to assess the changes that may be needed in alignment with the Florida Live Local Act.
Agenda Item 3 was the reading and approval of the Pedestrian and Vehicle Safety within Public Road and Rights of Way Ordinance. This ordinance prohibits car to pedestrian interactions on designated road rights of way and is applicable in unincorporated St. Johns County. The ordinance prohibits stopping, sitting, standing, or otherwise occupying or remaining in a median on a designated roadway when that person is not trying to lawfully cross the road. The Ordinance was approved 5-0.
The County announced the results of the 18 month Brand Development activity. Many of us had participated in the survey so long ago we may have forgotten about it! This brand was created by a local company, using the input of the County and the community research that included the survey respondents. Highlighting the waterways, natural resource, county history and outdoor activities, there is also a tagline of “Florida at First Sight.” We will soon be seeing the new branding on county materials, vehicles, etc.
County Administrator Hunter Conrad shared some of the funding for county projects that was included in the state budget that has passed and is awaiting Governor DeSantis’ signature. Included in the budget is:
- $6 Million for State Road 210 interchange improvements
- $6 Million for the 210 Interchange and railroad modification
- $15 Million for 4 lanes on 2209 from International Golf Parkway north
- $25 Million for the Ponte Vedra Beach restoration
- $5 Million for Summerhaven relief
- $2 Million for the Pine Island intersection improvements
- $3 Million for the West Augustine Medical Center
- $3 Million for Home Again to address Homeless Veteran’s concerns.
The County Attorney, David Migut, raised a concern about the on-going negations with the Twin Creeks Development Association to widen County Road 210, just east of I-95, from 2 lanes to 4 lanes. This was a condition of their Development Agreement and has not been completed. Mr. Migut requested and received approval from the Commissioners to proceed with filing suit against Twin Creeks Development Association if they are not able to successfully negotiate an agreement.
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Beth Tate 