Coconut Grove's PZAB Approves Development Warrant for Historic 3-Lot Property

In a recent City Commission meeting, discussions centered around a property acquisition in Coconut Grove, highlighting the complexities of local zoning laws and community concerns regarding development. The property, purchased in 2023, consists of three platted lots that have been combined into one home over the years. The owner sought to clarify that this is not a lot split but rather a request to utilize the existing three lots for development.

The owner obtained a demolition permit and plans to enhance the property, which currently lacks significant landscaping. During the meeting, it was noted that the property is not a notable feature of the neighborhood, but its historical significance as three separate lots since 1925 was emphasized.

The owner applied for a warrant to create multiple building sites, a process that typically does not require a variance or special exception. However, the initial application was denied by city planning staff, prompting a review by the Planning and Zoning Board (PZAB). The board deferred the application to allow for further discussions on community concerns and potential safeguards.

In response to feedback from neighbors about preserving green space and tree canopy, the owner proposed to plant 18 trees instead of the three required by city code and committed to maintaining 40% of the lot as green space, exceeding the minimum requirement of 25%. This proposal aimed to address community fears about losing greenery in Coconut Grove.

The PZAB ultimately approved the warrant after considering additional data on lot sizes and community input. The owner, a long-time resident of Coconut Grove, expressed a desire to maintain the neighborhood's character, noting that smaller lots contribute more to the area's charm than larger, more imposing developments.

This meeting underscores the ongoing tension between development and community preservation in Coconut Grove, as residents and city officials navigate the complexities of zoning regulations and neighborhood identity. The approval of the warrant marks a significant step in the development process, but it also raises questions about future growth and its impact on the community's landscape.