Monroe County commissioners approved phasing for site plan proposals at least five acres in size.
Previously, only projects zoned Planned Unit Development and subdivisions allowed phasing under the county zoning ordinance. This means all other developers had limited ability to occupy structures as they were completed in phases.
To ensure enforcement of the amendment by the county, preliminary site plans must include illustrative maps and a narrative description for each phase.
County planning department assistant director Jackie Nester Jelen said the first phase of a project is most likely the largest because it ensures necessary improvements for initial developments.
“So that first phase is going to include more parking, maybe a deceleration, acceleration lane, turn lane, stormwater and bioretention facilities- things like that," she said.
Additionally, Nester Jelen said county planners can understand the entire scope of a project best when it is completed in phases. This could eventually reduce the amount of disturbed ground at the onset of a new project.
“I believe this is going to really help folks in our community who have these projects achieve what they want in a more timely manner,” Commissioner Julie Thomas said. “And at the same time protect Monroe County residents from things like stormwater runoff.”
The commissioners unanimously approved the amendment Wednesday.
