Palm Bay council denies proposed Bayside Lakes self-storage PUD after residents cite traffic, character and lost amenities

The Palm Bay City Council on Nov. 6 denied a preliminary development plan (Resolution 2025-40) for a proposed three-story self-storage facility — Kogan Plaza — in the Bayside Lakes planned unit development.

The hearing drew numerous neighbors who said the storage project would add traffic at an already-congested intersection by Bayside Lakes Boulevard and Cogan Drive, bring a use that degrades neighborhood character near residential areas, and fail to deliver jobs or amenities residents said the community needs. "We already have 2 self storage buildings in Bayside Lakes… No. Both owned by mister Mike Erdman. We don't need any more storage buildings in Bayside," said resident John McGee, who identified himself as a longtime Bayside Lakes homeowner.

Council heard staff presentation and testimony from the applicant's representative and accepted public comment. After deliberation the council voted without dissent to deny the resolution, and later adopted a final order memorializing findings of fact and conclusions of law consistent with the denial.

Why it matters: The decision halts a commercial-storage use that residents argued conflicted with prior community expectations for higher-quality commercial development adjacent to the former golf-course amenity. Council and staff noted the project had previously been denied by the Planning & Zoning Board.

What comes next: The applicant may revise the plan and resubmit or pursue alternative land uses consistent with the PUD and city code. Council directed staff to finalize the written order of denial documenting the reasons on the record.

Vote: Council voted unanimously to deny Resolution 2025-40 and later approved an order incorporating the Planning & Zoning recommendation and the record.

Residents who opposed the project urged the city to prioritize commercial uses that create jobs and preserve neighborhood character rather than adding additional storage facilities in proximity to residential areas.