Planning & Zoning Agency approves special‑use permit for mobile home at 198 Aiken Street

The St. Johns County Planning & Zoning Agency voted 5–0 to approve a special‑use permit to allow a replacement mobile home at 198 Aiken Street.

Lindsey Cook, speaking for property owner Catherine Ward, told the agency the application seeks to replace and renovate an existing mobile home and continue residential use at the address so the owner can relocate her parents nearby to be cared for. "This is for a proposed mobile home and there's already a mobile home on the property," Cook said. The applicant said the incoming unit is used but newer than the prior dwelling and will not be an eyesore.

During public comment, Alfred Davis of Jacksonville opposed more mobile homes on the street, arguing they "devalue the property that's already there." Agency members asked about utilities and learned there is no city sewer on the street and the applicant proposes to continue using the existing septic system. The agency also discussed an upcoming change in Florida law noted during the hearing that will allow manufactured homes in residential districts without local special‑use approval starting Jan. 1; the chair acknowledged that change while weighing the decision.

Mister Olsen moved to approve the permit "based on 8 findings of fact and 11 conditions as provided in the staff" report; the motion was seconded by Ms. Perkins and passed 5–0. The staff order and conditions listed in the record will govern installation, setbacks, and site improvements.