For the second time in as many meetings, the Satellite Beach City Council on Nov. 20 listened to a packed house but ended up voting 4-1 to approve a zoning change for The Vue, a proposed development of condominiums, single-family homes and a 4-star hotel on 27 acres formerly used as base housing on State Road A1A.
More than 25 speakers were given three minutes each with opponents stressing concerns including impact on sea turtle nesting across SR A1A, increased traffic, the impact on local infrastructure and the loss of a “small town” feel many moved to Satellite Beach to enjoy.
There also were residents in support of the project because they believe the development will fall under better stormwater regulations, and provide additional tax revenues, the convenience of having a hotel within city limits to replace the former Ramada Inn, and a safe way to cross SR A1A.
Much of the debate centered on the density of the development, which was noted by city officials as still less than the number of residents living there during its use for base housing before it was annexed in 2003.
The Vue plans include up to three up-to-85-foot condominiums with a total of 147 units, 72 single-family homes and a 4-star, 220-room “Preferred Hotels & Resorts” hotel with a crosswalk over State Road A1A to Hightower Beach Park.
Voting against the measure was City Council member Jody Rozycki, who wanted the developer to maintain the Planning and Zoning Board recommendation of the slightly wider spacing on the required breezeways between the condo towers.
City Manager Courtney Barker took notes on concerns and questions, addressing each at the conclusion of more than two hours of public comment, citing information gathered since the last meeting on possible turtle nesting impact, environmental testing of the site and surrounding areas, and that the development will be served by Cocoa Beach utilities, not Brevard County, which has infrastructure problems in providing sewer along the barrier islands.
Addressing several residents’ concerns about clutter on the beach from the hotel guests, the developer agreed to stipulate in writing that The Vue will not allow food or vending of beach chairs or recreational equipment either on the beach or at the hotel.
The details worked out so far now go into a preliminary master plan with each step of the process before the City Council requiring a public hearing.