Planning board forwards annexation, plan amendment and rezoning for Tatum Boulevard parcel amid resident flooding and traffic concerns

The City of Edgewater Planning & Zoning Board voted to forward a favorable recommendation for annexation and approved related comprehensive‑plan and rezoning requests for a parcel east of Tatum Boulevard.

City staff said the annexation (AN2602) involves a parcel within the city’s interlocal service boundary and contiguous to city limits; staff recommended approval. Applicant Buddy McCourt described a low‑density plan—three building pads on about 18 acres, septic systems and minimal wetland impact—and said annexation would provide access that supports the modest plan.

Several nearby residents spoke during public comment. Gina Santo Venia and other neighbors expressed concerns about flooding along Edgewater Canal Road, tree loss and the safety of additional traffic near a high school corridor. Mary Forrester said her property has flooded in past storms and pressed the board to consider drainage impacts. JD Smith and others questioned whether the annexation would enable higher density over time.

Staff responded that the parcel is located in the same planning designation as adjacent city property after the requested CPA (city low density with a conservation overlay), and that city staff are actively securing a 50‑foot stormwater easement and have a plan to expand the Gaborde Canal. The board voted to forward a favorable annexation recommendation to City Council; later motions approved CPA2602 (small‑scale comprehensive plan amendment) and RZ2602 (rezoning to R‑2 with conservation overlay). The rezoning passed with a condition limiting development to the site plan presented (no increase in density without new Council approval). Roll calls in the transcript show Mr. McGinnis voting no on some items; the remainder of members supported the recommendations.

Next procedural steps include City Council consideration of the annexation and the recorded plan and rezoning materials.