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Council Members Support Downzoning of Multifamily Land on Island of Venice; First Reading of Ordinance Authorizing School Speed Zone Cameras
VENICE – The City of Venice aims to repurpose a 2.4-acre site on Pinebrook Road, initially slated for 43 apartments, into a public park.
This week, the City Council unanimously supported a citizen panel’s recommendation to nominate the land for potential purchase by Sarasota County. The proposal, presented by Loretta Berardinelli, a nearby resident, seeks to enhance local green spaces via the Neighborhood Parkland Acquisition Program.
Residents, including Berardinelli and Jim Monkowski, president of the Pinebrook South Homeowners Association, advocated for features like playground equipment and shaded picnic areas.
Despite unanimous council support, Council Member Rick Howard pointed out that the county must be willing to acquire the land. In May 2018, the City Council had previously denied a request to develop a 43-unit apartment complex on this site, effectively preserving it for community use.
Initial Approval Given to Speed Zone Cameras at Venice High and Epiphany Cathedral
This week, Venice officials approved the first reading of an ordinance allowing for speed enforcement cameras at Venice High School and Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. The council had previously reviewed this proposal in February.
The Venice Police Department reported a total of 40 accidents at these sites within the last five years, with injuries in four incidents. A study by RedSpeed USA highlighted considerable speeding violations during a two-day data collection period. The implementation of speed cameras aims to enhance safety around school zones.
The city would not bear any costs for the camera system, which would operate during school hours—30 minutes before and after classes. After a brief grace period where only warnings will be issued, violators could face a $100 citation, although it would not impact their driving records.
The revenue from fines would be allocated among the city, state, school district, and the vendor responsible for the camera system, promoting community safety initiatives.
Multifamily Lots May Be Downzoned
In a contentious 6-1 vote, the council approved a reduction in zoning for a half-acre site at Park Boulevard South corner, converting it from multi-family to single-family residential. This decision permits the Boruff Family Trust to build three homes on a lot currently housing four multifamily units.
Attorney Jeff Boone noted that the area was originally intended for single-family homes according to the 1926 plat drawn by John Nolen. Current zoning regulations allow for ten homes with significant height allowances, but the Boruff family sought to revert to a lower density zoning.
Council members expressed conflicting views, with some advocating for the preservation of multifamily zoning to facilitate affordable housing initiatives. Council Member Smith cited examples of existing affordable rental options in the area, underscoring the need for diverse housing opportunities on the island.
Planning Director Roger Clark assured that the request aligns with historical plans. Council members noted that the Boruffs purchased the property with certain developmental rights that have since been diminished, prompting the council’s decision.
Key Information
- Location: 2.4-acre site on Pinebrook Road, Venice
- Proposal: Convert multifamily land to public park
- Speed Cameras: Approved for Venice High School and Epiphany Cathedral
- Council Vote: 6-1 on multifamily zoning downzoning
- Support: Unanimous citizen panel and council backing for park proposal
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Article original publish date: 2025-06-14 07:00:00
Article source: www.heraldtribune.com
Read the full story at the original source: www.heraldtribune.com
