Discussion of proposed redefinition of housing density in Cedar Key's Comprehensive Plan consumed much of the Commission's February 13 workshop. As at the January 31 workshop, City Hall was at a capacity crowd, in contrast to past planning meetings. Following comments by Local Planning Agency Chair Greg Lang, several of the four Commissioner present responded prior to questions and statements from the audience. Former Mayor Helen Johannesen pleaded for "use of common sense." Bob Treat repeated his request that land use maps be accurate and Joseph Hatin remarked that the Commissioners seem to have made up there minds in advance. All four Commissioners took strong exception to Hatin's accusation. The central issue of housing density is a proposed change from the current limit of 4.9 houses per acre in a low density area and complicated limits on currently platted downtown lots that are 25 by 100 feet. There is no map showing a medium density zone. Furthermore, there is an ordinance that requires lots to be at least 7500 square feet. A proposed medium density zone would allow five to 14 houses per acre. Superimposed on density calculations is a principle of "rounding up or down" that would make actual densities significantly higher or lower than 5 or 14 houses per acre. Margie Vanlandingham specifically addressed the possible great increase in density over 14 per acre under rounding. City Attorney David Coffey stated that the variety of buildings in the downtown area is what is loved about Cedar Key. Mayor/Commissioner Paul Oliver said that we will do whatever it takes to maintain the character of the town. Discussion of the Historic District flared up again despite Mayor Oliver's request not to revisit that issue. Sue Seyfarth pointed out the fee for making changes as simple as the design of a screen door is $200 rather than $100 as stated at the last workshop. Walt McJordan asked if there is any appeal open to a property owner whose building has been designated as a "contributing historic building." City Attorney Coffey replied that contributing structures are identified in the Comp Plan and that is the law. | 