Commission sets May public hearing after debate over Hollywood land‑use interpretation

The board voted to set a public hearing in late May to consider a request from the City of Hollywood to have Broward County review a formal interpretation of the county land‑use plan concerning 1301 South Ocean Drive, a parcel that includes a public library and beach access.

Commissioner objections focused on whether the interpretation was being used to avoid a full land‑use review and whether a proposed long lease could thwart a 2008 voter requirement that city land valued over $250,000 go back to voters for disposal. Supporters of a hearing said the public should be allowed to weigh in and urged a prompt date before pending state legislation could alter local controls.

The board amended the motion on the floor and scheduled the public hearing for the second May meeting; staff said the action satisfied procedural timing requirements for review.

Next step: the hearing will include presentations from the city of Hollywood and public speakers; the commission said it expects legal clarifications and possible follow‑up depending on what is presented at the hearing.