Local Board approves conditional use for Esposito College on South 20 Eighth Street

The Fort Pierce Planning Board convened on July 14, 2025, to address several agenda items, focusing on zoning regulations and conditional use applications.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the licensing of group homes within commercial zoning districts. Board members highlighted that state regulations govern the distance requirements for these facilities, meaning that if another group home exists within the specified distance, the state could deny licensing, regardless of city approval. This preemption by the state limits the city's ability to regulate such establishments effectively.

Following this discussion, the board moved to a vote on a conditional use application related to the group home. The motion to accept the application, with two specified conditions, was made by Mr. Edwards and seconded by Ms. Carter. The roll call vote resulted in a majority approval, with Mr. Collins voting against the motion.

The meeting then transitioned to item D on the agenda, which involved a conditional use application from the Esparstria Institute College, located at 1404 South 28th Street. This application was presented as a conditional use with no new construction planned.

The board's discussions and decisions during this meeting reflect ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of zoning regulations and community needs in Fort Pierce. Further deliberations on the Esparstria Institute's application are expected in future meetings.