The St. Petersburg City Council convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss a private application involving three sites for amendments to the future land use map, changes to the official zoning map, and the approval of a development agreement. The meeting was quasi-judicial, allowing council members to address all items collectively.

City Planner Britton Wilson presented the proposed amendments, which involve a total of 3.29 acres located on the east side of Fourth Street North, north of Gandy Boulevard. The sites are currently designated as Preservation and Residential Medium, with the proposal aiming to modify these designations to allow for more development while maintaining some preservation areas.

The first site, 1.23 acres in size, is currently unimproved and is proposed to be entirely designated as preservation. The second site, which includes a wireless communications tower, is 0.71 acres and is proposed to change from preservation to Residential/Office General. The third site, at 1.35 acres, is intended for neighborhood suburban multifamily development, with plans for 20 townhomes and a small preservation area.

The proposed changes would increase the potential development density from 25 to 29 dwelling units across the three sites, with an intensity increase from 3,500 to 45,000 square feet. However, the development agreement limits the density to 20 units and intensity to 10,000 square feet, which is less than the current entitlements. This agreement also includes provisions for maintaining the preservation areas and restoring Site 1 prior to the issuance of building permits for the other sites.

The council discussed the implications of these changes, noting that they align with the city's comprehensive plan by directing population growth away from coastal high hazard areas. The proposal was deemed consistent with surrounding land uses, which are predominantly multifamily.

Craig Turaski, representing the applicant, emphasized the project's focus on enhancing the preservation areas, particularly by increasing wetlands on Site 1. He noted that the sites have been unmanaged, with issues such as invasive species and illegal dumping. The redevelopment aims to create a contiguous preservation area, improving ecological value and flood mitigation.

The council did not receive any public comments on the matter. Following the presentations, the council members expressed their support for the proposed amendments and the development agreement, recognizing the balance between development and preservation.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the city's efforts to manage land use effectively while addressing environmental concerns. The council's approval of the amendments and development agreement marks a significant step in the redevelopment of the Gateway area, with a focus on sustainable growth and preservation.