INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to move an overlay plan for 163 acres in West Gifford to a final public hearing.
The proposed regulations on industrial development are designed to improve the appearance of existing industrial facilities in the Gifford area with incentives and to maintain better control of what’s built near residential neighborhoods going forward.
The process of hammering out new permitted use, landscape and barrier regulations began when a major controversy arose over the site plan approval for a concrete plant in 2009.
Over the past five years, county officials have met with members of the Gifford community in several contentious sessions to address concerns about the health, safety and welfare of people who live adjacent the existing three cement facilities and other heavy industrial businesses.
A draft of the overlay plan was brought to the commission on Feb. 18 but sent back for more work. Tuesday was the first public hearing, with a final public hearing set for 5:01 p.m. June 3.
Though the revised plan on Tuesday received the endorsement of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce, the Indian River Neighborhood Association and an attorney representing a group of Gifford residents, several people still opposed the measure, saying that it does not go far enough.
The three main concerns of the residents are concrete plants, mulching facilities and demolition and debris operations, which the plan addresses by applying “best practices” and a process of a special exception.
The challenge that has faced commissioners and county staff is striking a balance between the interests of Gifford residents and the interests of those who own the property or operate businesses on land that is zoned for industrial uses.
Approximately 70 of the 163 acres in the proposed overlay district lies vacant, and one staff observation noted by Planning Director Stan Boling was the “new development will look a lot better.”
Boling also noted that property owners are “concerned about where regulations will end.”
Commissioner Joe Flescher, whose district encompasses the Gifford area, voiced his appreciation for the residents, staff, consultants and community leaders who worked on the compromise for several years.
“Thank you for all getting together,” Flescher said, noting that there were some contentious meetings along the way. “Thank you for seeing the resolution.”
As part of the compromise, the county will pay the permitting fees and expedite the approval process for businesses to built walls or other similar structures to help shield the neighbors from the noise and the sight of manufacturing and heavy equipment.
Commissioners also directed staff to try to come up with ways the county could help with financing improvements that will enhance the appearance and livability of the West Gifford area.