Public hearing continues today on Summerfield
By Jeff Burlew
DEMOCRAT STAFF WRITER
If you want to speak out on a proposed new mix of homes and apartments near Lake Jackson, you'll have another chance today.
Earlier this month, Leon County commissioners began a public hearing on Summerfield, a proposed development of 175 single-family homes, 312 apartment units and a shopping center across the street from the lake.
About 50 people, some opposed to the development and others in support - spoke during the meeting. After five hours of public comment and commission discussion, commissioners decided to continue the public hearing today.
Commissioner Bob Rackleff, who has expressed opposition to the proposal, said he's willing to hear more about the development.
"But it still seems to be too intensive for that site," he said. "It is a lake-protection area. And I think it's challenging us to really be serious about protecting our lakes."
Commissioner Tony Grippa, who has been more supportive of the development, said some appear to oppose the development because of its apartments. Summerfield would have 13 three-story apartment buildings.
"The fact that it's an apartment complex should not change our view of the project," Grippa said. "What we should be concerned about is its impact on Lake Jackson."
The developer, Arbor Properties, is asking commissioners to change the zoning of the 107-acre site, which is between North Monroe Street and Old Bainbridge Road. The property currently is zoned lake protection, which would limit the number of homes and apartments and wouldn't allow commercial or retail space.
Commissioner Dan Winchester, who represents the Lake Jackson area, recently met with the developer to discuss a possible compromise. However, Gordon Thames, president of Arbor Properties, said an agreement has not been reached. Winchester could not be reached for comment.
Thames added he would ask commissioners to make a decision one way or the other tonight. He also said the number of homes in the development has been scaled back from 175 to about 125.
The Planning Commission and county staff are recommending approval of Summerfield with conditions, such as eliminating all vehicular access to the development from Old Bainbridge Road, one of the county's canopy roads.
The land consists of several closed basins, which proponents say will help keep stormwater and pollutants out of Lake Jackson. One area became a closed basin after the property owner built a berm, or earthen dam, over a ditch. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has asked for removal of the berm.
Grippa said he would offer a compromise in which lake-protection zoning would remain for the the area with the berm, while the zone change would be granted for the closed basin areas. He said that would ensure Lake Jackson isn't hurt by the development.
Contact reporter Jeff Burlew at (850) 599-2180 or jburlew@tallahassee.com.
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