Annexation Trial Balloon

"I'm in shock!," said Commissioner Pat O'Neal after hearing a proposal to develop 750 home sites for annexation into the City of Cedar Key. Commissioner O'Neal was reacting to Tuesday night's Commission agenda item regarding Cedar Key Villages, a proposed development on the mainland adjacent to Cedar Key. On another development item, Dr. Earl Starnes made a formal request for a "comprehensive and systematic development review of the proposed hotel, apartments and restoration of the Nash property...." The most discussed item on the agenda was a proposal to buy three new police vehicles.

Bob Gorlow of a Coconut Grove real estate firm asked for a response from the Commission on his proposal to annex about 1000 to 3000 acres of mainland into the City of Cedar Key. He said that he is in the process of buying the land for a 750 unit clustered housing development. Mr. Gorlow described five development projects in California, New Mexico and Florida that he has done, adding that rather than the 170 units proposed by another developer, his development would have a lower impact on the environment due to clustering surrounded by green space.

The Commissioners' responses were quite restrained. Commissioner Heath Davis noted that a property must be owned before a formal development proposal could be considered. Commissioner Sue Colson said that she would need more information. Commissioner Pat O'Neal expressed (restrained) shock. Under current regulations and based on another recent development effort, it appears that one unit on twenty acres would be the maximum density permitted.

Dr. Earl Starnes, following up on his September 23 letter to the Commission, read the letter in which he recommended a through review of a development project that encompasses nearly all of one block between Second and Third Streets and several adjacent properties. He spoke highly of the City's consultant, Planner Gail Easley, who will review the project. Commissioner Colson responded, saying that an environmental impact study will be needed to assure protection of clam nurseries along Third Street.

In addition to opening bids on two used police vehicles, the Commission approved purchase of two new police cruisers and a SUV at a total cost of $84,754. The current vehicles in use need repairs. Interspersed with discussion of the vehicles were comments on the utility of the K-9 member of Cedar Key P.D. and certification of the dog's handler.