On January 26th, Roger Clark, the head of the Planning and Zoning Department in Venice, delivered an exceptional information presentation to residents attending the Community Association sponsored seminar. He delved into the history, background, and significance of the development process, shedding light on the state’s influence on the process and its potential implications for the city’s residents. The audience was thoroughly engaged and posed numerous questions, which Roger answered with utmost clarity and detail. Roger’s staff, including John Nolen, albeit a cardboard representation, attended the presentation. Nolen, the original planner for the city, expressed his pride in Venice, describing it as his best Florida project and the most original plan his office had ever produced.
Venice’s population, comprising both full-time and seasonal residents, currently exceeds 35,000 and is projected to reach 50,000 by the year 2040. The high median house price in Venice has made it challenging for many individuals to purchase a single-unit house, which is the primary reason behind the construction of mixed-use family dwelling housing along Laurel Road and in other areas. Mixed-use developments offer economic benefits to governments, consumers, and developers.
Roger mentioned that the maximum building height has actually decreased over the years. In 2002, it was possible to obtain approval for a height of 105 feet. However, now it is only 85 feet, with an exception for the new Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Venice. Roger believes that this site will become the main location for the SMH. The site has a potential expansion area of 60 acres, while the location in Sarasota is less than half of that area.
Roger stated that the Venice government cannot refuse, according to the law, a developer’s plan if it complies with the Comprehensive Plan, Land Development Regulations, and the Binding Master Plan. A plan can only be rejected if there is competent and substantial evidence to deny it. The Bert Harris Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2011 (referenced HERE) provides relief to owners of “inordinate burdens.” This act was the primary reason why local homeowners and residents were unable to prevent the development of the natural area across the road from our entrance. As a result, there is now worrisome and potentially dangerous road traffic outside our main entrance and directly across from the main shopping center entrance, as indicated by an audience question.