Zip It

Zoning is the process of planning for land use by a locality to allocate certain kinds of structures in certain areas. Zoning also includes restrictions in different zoning areas, such as height of buildings, use of green space, density (number of structures in a certain area), use of lots, and types of businesses.


Last night the Zoning in Progress (ZIP) was on the agenda to approve in order to initiate the revised land development regulations and to finally move the city forward. This entire discussion went on and on even though both the Planning & Zoning and the Historical Preservation Boards had previously reached a consensus. Even the monumental meeting in January at the Golf Course that was attended by all three boards that included the city commission, was panned by Maxwell and Amoroso because 1) there were no minutes taken at that meeting and 2) there was no recording. I guess certain members of our commission failed to take copious or even casual notes or they have conveniently bad memories


It was mentioned that we are a two story city and there were still some who said, "Who says?" and gave examples as to why we are not a low rise city by naming half dozen or so non-conforming buildings to prove their case. They must go to bed at night dreaming of the Miami or New York City sky-line.


Seven long years and several P&Z boards, later, we still have some fighting progress. Even though there have been and will be public meetings as well as advance notice to property owners as well as discussions galore for all of those demanding Ft. Lauderdale in Lake Worth by building 100 feet here and 65 feet there, these are the very same who are still trying to stop us going forward.


In order to prevent the premature review and approvals of new construction which may be incompatible with the proposed land development regulations and comprehensive plan amendments, it is imperative to implement Zoning in Progress throughout the City.


Four commissioners understood that last night. Scott Maxwell gave it his best and final negative derailing shot by saying, "I would rather protect the ball than fumble it down the road." By voting the ZIP forward, keeps you from fumbling Vice Mayor.