Council package updates rules for recovery residences, inspection and reasonable-accommodation process

City staff presented an updated package of code changes that would allow recovery residences where residential uses are allowed and would add a formal reasonable-accommodation process aligned with state law.

City staff member Kent walked through an updated presentation, describing inspection and licensing steps, the reasonable-accommodation application, and the documentation applicants must provide: a dimensioned floor plan, proposed number of residents, proof of licensure or voluntary certification, satisfactory fire and health inspections, owner consent and Homeowners Association notice, and a business-license application that can include a pre-occupancy inspection. "An applicant will fill out a reasonable accommodation application form...we'll get general information from them, parcel specific information such as a dimensioned floor plan...proof of satisfactory fire safety or health inspections," Kent said.

Staff said certification through the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (as referenced in the transcript) is voluntary; certified residences have levels (one through four) that indicate the intensity of support and supervision, and certified operators must maintain administrator contact information. Staff described an administrative approval process with a 60-day review by the city manager designee, an appeal to the Planning and Zoning Board if denied administratively, and a further appeal to the City Commission with a BTR if needed. Staff also noted that failure to maintain certification or compliance could lead to revocation of reasonable-accommodation approval.

The package was presented as a second-reading item with updates; the workshop did not include a vote and the ordinance was listed for the Commission meeting the next day.