During the Fort Pierce Planning Board meeting on May 12, 2025, significant discussions centered around the implications of the "Live Local" legislation on commercial property development in the area. Board members expressed concerns about the potential density and traffic increases resulting from new developments, particularly in relation to a proposed project that includes residential units, hotels, and a convention center.

One of the primary topics was the affordability of housing in Fort Pierce. Board members analyzed the local median income, which stands at approximately $75,149, and discussed how this figure relates to rental prices set by the state housing initiative program. They noted that under the current guidelines, a two-bedroom unit could have a maximum rent of around $2,559 per month, which raises questions about whether such prices align with the community's needs.

Concerns were also raised about the location of new developments, with board members emphasizing the importance of ensuring that any increase in population and traffic is manageable. They highlighted the need for ongoing updates from the Technical Review Committee (TRC) to keep the public informed about the progress and recommendations regarding these developments.

The board acknowledged the challenges posed by the state legislation, which restricts local governments from making proactive zoning changes that could limit the scale of new projects. This has led to worries that the intent to encourage downtown development might be undermined by the influx of large-scale projects in less suitable locations.

As the meeting concluded, members agreed on the necessity of balancing growth with community needs, ensuring that any new developments enhance rather than overwhelm Fort Pierce. The board committed to maintaining transparency and providing regular updates to the public as the situation evolves.