Sand Key Shoppes Zoning Decision Delayed

With a 3-3 split vote, the re-zoning decision will wait. It was standing room only at the 5 hour public hearing yesterday where 100 people had to watch the meeting via video from the 2nd floor of city hall because the main event was at capacity. The huge turnout was due the the "Save Our Shoppes" coalition, opposed to any re-development that would lead to the demise of their stores and restaurants, who chartered a bus to get as many residents as possible to the hearing. The current owner claims to have no interest in tearing down the Shoppes, but is seeking to have the zoning changed to "tourist" which could potentially lead to redevlopment, perhaps even a 100+ plus room hotel or condo tower. This can of worms was opened by a potential buyer who's contract has recently expired, but the city wants it settled and kept the hearing on the agenda - maybe they figure it's only a matter of time before there's another suitor. After 5 hours of citizen oposition, the community develpment board cast a vote of 3-3. On March 3rd the deciding vote will be cast by the 7th member who was not in attendance. The recommendation will then be fowarded to city council.