City OK's hotel concept for Soundview Tr.
BY VICI PAPAJOHN Gulf Breeze News vici@gulfbreezenews.com

At its executive meeting last week, Gulf Breeze City Council granted approval for the concept of an Extended Stay Hotel for the commercial lot on the corner of Soundview Trail.

"I just want it to be very clear that this is approval of a concept," stated councilwoman Bev Zimmern. "There are a lot of things that still need to be tweaked to meet new codes and standards before final approval of this property. But the concept is within the parameters of the zoning and use as far as I can see."

Councilman Carl T. Hoffman noted that the parking lot turn around was not sufficient for emergency vehicle turn-around, and pointed out the insufficient setbacks under new code. The council approved an office building for the site two years ago with similar footprint to the proposed multi-story hotel. The natural, protected wetlands area on the south side of the lot will offer significant barrier for the homeowners on Soundview Trail, according to the developers

Residents from Tall Pine Trail filled the room to find out if rumors of an RV park in Shoreline Park South were true. Though a passionate discourse ensued, council assured them that the RV park was but one of nearly 20 sug gestions put forward by staff when challenged with significant budget cuts resulting from proposed tax cuts.

"The park is designated for park or recreation purposes only," state homeowner Priscilla Long. "As a resident of Tall Pine Trail we would be against a project like an RV park."

Neighbor Patti Hutto echoed Long's concerns. "I heard about this by accident - I thought it was a joke. How many people in Gulf Breeze would take their RV down the street? This would not serve the residents. Aren't there wetlands there anyway? I would have to know this is taken off the list."

"If the Super Homestead Exemption. comes through we are going to have to do something, find new revenue sources," explained Gilchrist. "I cannot say, I will not say this is completely off the table. Nothing is off the table. But you will hear about any proposals. We do not operate in a vacuum."

City Manager Edwin "Buzz" Eddy explained the process. "When subjects are mentioned as possibilities, there is a stage for concept exploration, exploration by the council, who then asks the staff to do further research, and so on. Staff has not even been asked to research anything yet. You are going to hear about it if projects are being proposed."

Another option raised during staff brainstorming was approved for further staff analysis at the meeting. Police Chief Paulding proposed a Municipal Charge for Accident Investigation.

"Of the 300-plus fender benders we have in the city, most of the drivers are not residents. This just passes on some of the burden of manpower to investigate," Gilchrist assured.

Eddy calmed fears of insurance increases, and reported "cities have been doing programs like this for nearly ten years and they have experienced no evidence of any increase in auto insurance rates. Actually, the opposite has happened."

Council approved Ordinance no. 06-07, strengthening notification requirements when city council is considering a variance, and Ordinance 07-07 providing for emergency operations within the city during emergency events.

Second Reading for Ordinance 08-07 requiring immediate conformity to the city's code regarding reader boards, and 09-07 adding pool set back regulations was held July 13.