Planning board approves rezoning requests for residential developments in Sand Hill area

The Hernando County Planning and Zoning Commission convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss several key zoning issues, including the classification of public service facilities and various rezoning requests.

A significant topic of discussion was the classification of warehouses and offices as public service facilities. One commissioner expressed confusion over this designation, questioning whether it was a means to bypass the standard rezoning process. Staff clarified that these facilities fall under the Goodyear River Electric property, a nonprofit utility service, which justifies their classification as public service uses. The commission noted that such facilities are considered minor public facilities, which are permissible under any zoning classification.

The commission also addressed a master plan revision petition from Grainger Development LLC, which requested a postponement to September 8, 2025, to allow for further review of staff recommendations. The commission unanimously approved this postponement.

Another key item was a rezoning request from Michael Hart, representing his wife, to revert a property from Plan Development Project Office Professional back to R1A Residential. The petitioner was unaware of the zoning change when attempting to obtain a pool permit. The commission approved this request, allowing the property to return to its original residential status.

Additionally, a request from John and Joanne Schenck sought to rezone their property from multifamily to Agricultural Residential 2 (AR2). The couple had purchased the property under the impression it was zoned AR2 and faced complications when trying to pull a garage permit. Staff recommended approval of this request, and the commission agreed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency with previous zoning classifications.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the complexities of zoning classifications and the importance of clear communication regarding property designations. The commission's decisions reflect a commitment to addressing community needs while adhering to zoning regulations.