The Palm Beach County government meeting held on October 12, 2024, focused on a proposed amendment to the comprehensive plan regarding a new RV resort campground located on the north side of Atlantic Avenue. The discussion centered around the compatibility of the proposed development with the surrounding natural and recreational areas, particularly the nearby Loxahatchee Wildlife Refuge and West Delray Regional Park.

The proposal seeks to change the land use designation from Agricultural Residential (AGR) to Commercial Recreation. The applicant emphasized that the term "resort" is more appropriate than "campground," as the development aims to provide a more upscale experience for visitors, rather than traditional camping. The RV resort is designed to cater to nature enthusiasts visiting the wildlife refuge, which attracts approximately 300,000 visitors annually for activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife photography.

The surrounding area includes a mix of commercial, agricultural, and recreational uses, with notable landmarks such as a Wawa gas station and various agricultural facilities. The proposed RV resort is positioned to complement the existing recreational offerings, providing amenities such as a clubhouse and outdoor activities for guests.

The applicant highlighted the growing popularity of RV resorts, particularly on the East Coast, where options are limited. Within a ten-mile radius of the proposed site, the only similar facility is the Del Raton RV Park in Delray Beach. The meeting underscored the need for additional RV accommodations to meet the demand, especially during peak seasons when county parks are fully booked.

Overall, the meeting concluded with a recognition of the potential benefits of the RV resort, both for visitors and the local economy, while also ensuring that the development aligns with the county's comprehensive planning goals. Further discussions and evaluations will follow as the proposal moves through the approval process.