During a recent government meeting in New Smyrna Beach, community members voiced their concerns regarding the status of the historic women's club property and ongoing zoning issues that could impact the character of the city.

Dr. Herman opened the discussion by expressing gratitude to the commission and emphasizing the importance of historic preservation in maintaining the city's charm. He raised urgent concerns about the women's club, which has been under discussion for over a year. Dr. Herman highlighted the delays in closing a sale on the property, warning that the building's condition is deteriorating, particularly due to a leaking roof. He urged the commission to expedite the sale to prevent further damage and address neighborhood concerns about the appearance of an abandoned building.

Sandra Smith followed with comments on the zoning requirements for the site, noting that the property requires numerous variances to comply with city regulations. She argued that the applicant's request for variances does not align with the city's goals and could lead to detrimental impacts on the surrounding community. Smith urged the commission to deny the request, citing concerns about potential spot zoning that could benefit the developer at the expense of the neighborhood.

Paul Schlichtman also spoke against the proposed zoning changes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining zoning integrity to reflect the community's character. He warned that granting the zoning change for a property on South Atlantic Avenue could set a precedent for similar requests, leading to increased density and development that would not align with the existing residential areas.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving the city's historic character and ensuring that development aligns with the established zoning framework. As discussions continue, residents remain vigilant about the potential impacts of zoning changes on their neighborhoods.