Item 8BAGENDA ITEM # 8B
SEPTEMBER 10, 2007
CITY OF ATLANTIC BEACH
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA ITEM: One-year update on implementation of the
Residential Development Standards
SUBMITTED BY: Sonya Doerr, AICP ~~
Community Development Director
DATE: August 29, 2007
BACKGROUND: The Residential Development Standards have been in effect for one
year. To this date there have been no Building Permit applications for residential
construction in this area of the City that have been subject to the new regulations, but I do not
believe that there has been any adverse cause-and-effect resulting from the new regulations
that has stifled new residential construction. I have not been made aware of any instance
where a property owner has been limited or deterred as a result of the new regulations. I
believe the lack of activity is more a result of the general slow-down in new housing starts
and a very strong trend in residential remodeling and additions to existing residences.
(Additions less than 25% of the size of the original house are not subject to the regulations.)
There has continued to be a significant level of residential construction in Old Atlantic
Beach, and this has consisted of many additions and very major remodeling projects. This is
atypical residential construction trend now seen across the country.
A number of local architects and builders have continued to call with questions, and several
have designed additions or renovation projects to be generally consistent with the regulations
although the projects were not subject to the regulations. We sent the Design Guidelines to
local builders, architects and designers who have previously worked in the City, and have
received a considerable amount of positive reaction to this document.
Many communities across the country continue to adopt similar regulations through a
remarkably similar process. At this time, I would suggest no changes to the Residential
Development Standards.
BUDGET: No budget issues.
RECOMMENDATION: No action required.
ATTACHMENTS: None.
REVIEWED BY CITY MANAGER:
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September 10, 2007 regular meeting