- September 7, 2024
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A proposal to build two apartment buildings near the intersection of State Road 100 and Anderson Highway won the Flagler Beach City Commission's approval in a 4-1 vote on July 12.
Commission Chair Eric Cooley voted against the proposal.
The future apartment complex will sit on a 3.16-acre parcel between Joyce Street and Leslie Street, southwest of the S.R. 100 and Anderson Highway intersection.
Cooley thought the 39-unit apartment complex could generate too much traffic on Leslie Street. He was also unimpressed with the complex's proposed recreation spaces. For example, he said, the walkways are really just sidewalks to access the buildings.
“My concern is we're calling something an 'active and passive recreation area' that, in my opinion, does not meet the definition,” Cooley said.
The proposed site plan consists of two buildings — one with 27 apartment units, and the other with 12 — and 79 parking spaces.
It has 12.3 units per acre, which is below the city’s cap of 14.5, and would sit between several single-family homes and a retention pond.
One PVC and screened fence would separate it from the houses, while another fence would separate it from the pond.
Leslie Street will be the main entrance. A secondary entrance will be available on Joyce Street, but will primarily be used for emergency access.
Cooley said he would like to see Joyce Street paved to reduce traffic on Leslie Street. The developer is not planning to pave the road, but has agreed to help stabilize it as an access road.
City planner Larry Torino said the applicant has addressed every concern that city staff members have raised, including adding a second fire hydrant.
The development includes a deck at one end of the pond for fishing and potential kayaking, and a sidewalk around the building for walking and bike riding, with benches.
Cooley and Commissioner Jane Mealy both expressed concerns about whether the recreation area would meet the definitions of active and passive recreation amenities.
Torino said a sidewalk can be multipurpose.
“You’re providing the potential for active recreation,” Torino said. “That’s the intention."
Mayor Suzie Johnston suggested adjusting the sidewalk design to make its recreational purpose more explicit — for instance, by adding an area for hopscotch.
The commission approved the plan on the condition that the developer make the recreation areas more defined.
