Commission approves 21‑unit Azul Avenue vacation‑rental project after neighborhood concerns about fence and parking

DUNEDIN, Fla. — The City Commission unanimously approved design review DR‑2025‑0004 on Feb. 5 for Azul Avenue Vacation Homes, a proposed 21‑unit, two‑story short‑term rental project at 1380 Pinehurst Road, while commissioners and the developer agreed to address neighborhood concerns about fencing and visibility.

Staff said the site is zoned FXM (form‑based medium) with a land‑use designation that allows up to 24 dwelling units per acre; the proposed 21 units fall within that density. Planner Frances Leong Sharp noted the application meets parking and buffer requirements, proposes rooftop solar and includes a stormwater vault. A traffic impact analysis submitted with the project found substantially fewer peak‑hour trips than the site’s previous charter school use.

Neighbor Tom Michaels, who lives immediately south of the parcel, objected to the planned 6‑foot streetscape wall and warned of visibility and safety problems for motorists and cyclists exiting his property. Michaels also questioned whether available parking would be sufficient for guests. Applicant Walter Penaccio said the development team will work with the neighbor: "...as a good neighbor, we would take that into consideration...we would be totally on board, especially if it's a safety concern for him." Staff noted code requires any wall above 42 inches to be at least 50% open/opaque and that plantings can be used to soften a lower wall where appropriate.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of compatibility and suggested staff and applicant coordinate final streetscape and safety details before construction permits are issued. The motion to approve passed unanimously.