Item R1
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Meeting Date: June 18. 2008
Division: Growth Management
Bulk Item: Yes No ---X..
Department: Planning & Environmental Resources
Staff Contact: Susan Grimsley & Richard Jones
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: A public hearing to consider a resolution to extend an Interim Development
Ordinance (100) deferring the acceptance of applications for redevelopment and/or conversion of marine
facilities including commercial marinas and working waterfronts for one year after the effective date or when
applicable comprehensive plan and/or land development regulations become effective.
ITEM BACKGROUND: Monroe County is experiencing the loss of and redevelopment of marine facilities
including commercial marinas and the working waterfront. The County found it necessary to enact an Interim
Development Ordinance deferring the acceptance of development applications that seek development approval
for the redevelopment and conversion of marine facilities and working waterfront properties until land
development regulations are adopted. However, Comprehensive Plan amendments were adopted February 4,
2008 and were found ''not in compliance" by the DCA. The proposed plan amendments are now in the DOAH
process, involving several parties. Staff believes the 100 should be extended for another year, due to the
potential length and nature of the hearing process and LDR adoption.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
February 2005 - Approved contract with South Florida Regional Planning Council (SFRPC) and Florida
Atlantic University (F AU) to develop a Marine Management Strategic Plan.
July 2005 - Adopted Ordinance No. 017-2005 - An 100 deferring the acceptance of development applications
for the redevelopment and conversion of marine facilities.
March 2006 - Accepted fmdings of the marine Management Strategic Plan.
June 2006 - Extended the IDO by Resolution 24 I -2006.
September 2006 - Approved contract with SFRPC to develop a Marina Siting Plan, Working Waterfronts
Preservation Master Plan and draft land development regulations for working waterfront preservation.
April 2007 - Held a workshop to discuss preservation options, allowing staff to complete land development
regulations and begin process for adoption.
July 2007 - Extended IDO until July 9,2008 by Resolution 265-2007.
September 2007 - Approval of Transmittal Resolution 301-2007 to DCA
February 2008- Adoption of Comprehensive Plan Amendment Ordinance 008-2008
May 23, 2008 - 1 st Public Hearing held
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Approval
N/A
BUDGETED: Yes
SOURCE OF FUNDS:
No
TOTAL COST: N/A
COST TO COUNTY:
REVENUE PRODUCING: Yes
No
AMOUNT PER MONTH_ Year
APPROVED BY:
County Atty ----K- OMBfPurchasing _ Risk Management _
DOCUMENTATION: Included X
Not Required_
DISPOSITION:
AGENDA ITEM #
May 12, 2008
*
ORDINANCE NO. 2008
AN ORDINANCE BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXTENDING INTERIM
DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE NO. 017-2005; ADOPTING AN
INTERIM DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE DEFERRING THE
ACCEPT ANCE OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS FOR THE
REDEVELOPMENT AND CONVERSION OF MARINE FACILITIES,
INCLUDING COMMERCIAL MARINAS AND THE WORKING
WATERFRONT, UNTIL NECESSARY LAND DEVELOPMENT
REGULATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS
ARE DRAFTED AND EFFECTIVE; PROVIDING FOR
EXEMPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND REPEAL
OF INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR
TRANSMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS (DCA) AND THE SECRETARY OF STATE;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR AN
EXPIRATION DATE
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY MAKES THE
FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW:
1. The Board of County Commissioners (Board or BaCC) at its meeting of August 18, 2004,
directed staff to have a public water access and marine facilities plan prepared for Monroe
County.
2. The Board of County Commissioners discussed a policy of "No Net Loss" of working
waterfront or public access to the water at its December 16, 2004 meeting.
3. Monroe County has experienced the loss of working waterfront and the loss of public access
to the water due to the redevelopment of marine facilities, including commercial marinas, and the
working waterfront, including boat yards, wet and dry storage, fish houses and commercial
fishing vessel dockage, at an unprecedented rate.
4. Further loss of working waterfront and public access in the County is and will be detrimental
to the economic and social well being and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the
County.
5. If the 2010 Comprehensive Plan (Plan) and Land Development Regulations are not amended
to control certain conversions and redevelopment, future losses of working waterfront and public
access will negatively affect the economy and bring an end to critical marine services (e.g. boat
yards), commercial marinas that are available to the public, and traditional trades associated with
commercial fishing.
6. Preserving the status quo for a temporary period of time will prevent re-development that
could be inconsistent with the Plan and/or with pending changes to the Plan or land development
regulations.
7. A number of owners of waterfront properties are exploring the possible change of use of their
Page I of7
May 12,2008
property to private residential uses and private exclusive use of dockage which will further
decrease the public water access and/or working waterfront.
8. Goal 212 of the Plan directs the County to prioritize shoreline land uses and establish criteria
for shoreline development in order to preserve and enhance coastal resources and to ensure the
continued economic viability of the County.
9. Goal 213 of the Plan directs the County to ensure adequate public access to the beach or
shoreline.
10. Objective 502.1 of the Plan directs the County to promote the preservation and enhancement
of the existing ports and port related activities.
11. The acceptance or processing of development applications during the term of this ordinance
would result in confusion for property owners, inefficiencies in governmental services, and
potentially redundant review processes and may unreasonably affect the expectations of property
owners.
12. The approval of development applications for conversions and redevelopment may result in
the continued and irreversible loss of public access and working waterfront.
13. The exemption of certain uses and development activities, as provided herein, advances the
intent of this Ordinance and will not diminish public access or further the loss of working
waterfront.
14. The County recognizes the need to amend comprehensive plan and land development
regulations and programs to preserve marine facilities including commercial marinas that offer
public water access and provide for working waterfront.
15. The Board at its meeting of January 19, 2005, voted to contract with the South Florida
Regional Planning Council to prepare the public water access and marine facilities plan and
implementation measures including Plan amendments and Land Development Regulations.
16. The County has committed necessary staff and resources to the development of these policies
and regulations.
17. The Board at a regular meeting on January 19, 2005, directed staff to prepare an ordinance
deferring acceptance of applications for redevelopment of marine facilities including commercial
marinas and the working waterfront (boat yards, wet and dry storage, fish houses and commercial
fishing vessel dockage) that would diminish public access or result in the loss of working water
front, while staff prepared amendments to the Plan and Land Development Regulations.
18. Following direction of the Board, the Growth Management Division staff immediately
undertook the development of an Interim Development Ordinance and preparation of a contract
for the development of a public water access and marine facilities plan and implementation
measures including Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations.
19. Interim Development Ordinance (IDO) No. 017-2005 was enacted on July 20, 2005, and
extended until July 10, 2007 by Resolution 241-2006 and until July 9, 2008 by Resolution 265-
2007.
20. The Board adopted the Marine Management Strategic Plan on March 15, 2006.
21. On April 30,2007 the South Florida Regional Planning Council completed the Working
Waterfront Preservation Master Plan.
Page 1 of7
May 12, 2008
22. During the time the IDO was effective, planning staff prepared, Planning Commission
reviewed, and the Board approved Plan amendments that were transmitted to the Department of
Community Affairs (DCA) on September 19,2007.
23. Following the receipt of Objections, Recommendations and Comments from the DCA dated
December 7,2007, planning staff revised the proposed Plan amendments and the Board adopted
amendments on February 4,2008.
24. The DCA by Notice of Intent (N01) dated March 31, 2008, found five of the provisions
which would most significantly affect development to be "Not in Compliance" (Policy 101.4.7,
Policy 101.4.21, Policy 2] 2.5.4, Policy 219.1.1 and Policy 219.1.2).
25. The NOI triggered further administrative processes, including but not limited to, mediation,
conciliation and settlement discussions, and hearings with the DCA and other affected parties,
along with enacting land development regulations, all of which will likely take up to a year to be
presented to the BOCC for adoption.
26. The legislation concerning the working waterfront Plan amendments is still in progress and
drafting of land development regulations is underway.
27. This Interim Development Ordinance and the amendments to the Plan and land development
regulations are necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public and to
advance the policies set forth in the Plan.
28. The utilization of the moratorium device as a temporary measure to facilitate government
decision making, study and adoption of comprehensive plan and land development regulations is
a legitimate governmental tool to facilitate logical and considered growth, and as a means of
avoiding inefficient and ill-conceived development.
29. The County finds that it is necessary to enact an Interim Development Ordinance to continue
to defer the acceptance of development applications that seek development approval for the
redevelopment of waterfront properties that could result in the loss of public water access and
working waterfront.
30. Chapter 125, F.S. authorizes the Board to adopt ordinances to provide standards protecting
against imminent and immediate threat to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Monroe
County.
31. The County finds that a 365-day deferment of development applications and approvals as
provided herein is reasonable and is the minimum necessary to protect the health, safety, and
general welfare of the citizens of the County and to implement the Plan.
32. The temporary deferral of development applications and approvals, as provided herein, is not
intended nor shall it be construed to inhibit the existing lawful use of properties in accordance
with the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations.
33. This Interim Development Ordinance constitutes a valid exercise of the County's police
power and is otherwise consistent with Section 163.3]6, et seq., F.S., which, inter alia,
encourages the use of innovative land use regulations including provisions such as moratoria to
implement the adopted comprehensive plan.
34. On May 20, 2008, the Planning Commission held a properly noticed public hearing and
found the draft Interim Development Ordinance to be consistent with the adopted Plan.
35. On May 23, 2008, and on June 18,2008, the Board reviewed and considered the extension of
Ordinance No. 0] 7-2005 and adoption of this Interim Development Ordinance.
Pagel of7
May 12, 2008
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA:
Section 1. Findings. The above Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law are hereby adopted
and incorporated by reference herein as the factual basis which necessitates this action.
Section 2. Purpose and Intent. The purpose of this Interim Development Ordinance is to
continue to implement the Board's intent to temporarily limit further redevelopment and
conversion of marine facilities that result in the loss of working waterfront and diminish public
access to the water, in order to implement the Commission's policy of "no net loss" of working
waterfront and public water access to marine facilities while the County and other affected
persons continue the administrative process triggered by the NO!. Pursuant to its lawful
authority and the pending legislation doctrine as set forth in Smith v. City of Clearwater, 383
So.2d 681 (Fla. 2d DCA, 1980) the Board hereby establishes the interim development
regulations set forth in this Ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect until the
expiration of this legislation.
Section 3. Definitions. As used in this Ordinance, the following terms shall have the
definitions provided [unless the context clearly provides otherwise]:
a. "Commercial marina" shall mean any facility or facilities, having three or more slips, docks,
or docking spaces, conducting business involving the sale, repair, rental, storage, and servicing
of boats, and including accessory retail uses. The term includes a licensed commercial facility
which provides secured public moorings or wet storage for private pleasure vessels or
commercial vessels on a leased basis. The term does not include privately owned individual
berths or docks accessory to land based dwelling units.
b. "Existing structures and uses" shall mean a structure in existence as of February 28, 2005, and
the customary and regular uses of that structure up to and including February 28,2005.
c. "Marine facility" shall mean commercial marinas, the working waterfront, boat ramps, and
any other locations that provide public access to the navigable waters of the state.
d. "Public access" shall mean the ability of the public to physically reach, enter, or use beaches
and shores. The term shall have the same meaning as defined in Rule 9J-5.003(97), Florida
Administrative Code.
e. "Working waterfront" shall mean a parcel or parcels of real property that are used for water
dependent boat yards, wet storage of boats and vessels, commercial fish houses (fish landings,
processing and packaging) and commercial fishing vessel dockage. The term does not include
commercial marinas providing dockage for pleasure watercraft.
f. "Water-dependent uses" shall mean activities which can be carried out only on, in or adjacent
to water areas because the use requires access to the water body for water borne transportation,
including ports or marinas, and recreation. The term shall have the same meaning as defined in
Rule 9J5-003(137), Florida Administrate Code.
Page 40f7
May :l, :lUUts
g. "Water-enhanced uses" shall mean activities that are not water-dependent uses but benefits
economically or aesthetically by its location adjacent to or on the waterfront. The term includes
dock side bars, restaurants, hotels, motels, and residential uses.
Section 4. Deferred Action. Staff is directed to continue to defer the following from the date of
March 1,2005, as prescribed in Ordinance 017-2005, until the expiration of this 100:
a) Accepting or processing development applications relating to redevelopment
or conversion of existing uses and structures for:
(1) any change of use of a commercial marina from a water-dependent use to
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities
into individual parcels regardless oftype of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine
facilities which would diminish public access or result in a loss of working
waterfront; and
(4) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront to a
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use.
b) Issuance of building permits for redevelopment or conversion of existing uses
and structures for:
(1) any change of use ofa commercial marina from a water-dependent use to
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities
into individual parcels regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine
facilities which would diminish public access or result in a loss of working
waterfront; and
(4) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront to a
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use.
c) Issuance of development orders and development permits of existing uses
and structures for:
(1) any change of use of a commercial marina from a water-dependent use to
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities
into individual parcels regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine
facilities which would diminish public access or result in a loss of working
waterfront; and
(4) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront to a
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use.
Section S. Moratorium. During the time this ordinance is in effect as specified herein, there
shall be a moratorium upon the issuance of building permits, acceptance of development
PageS oJ 7
May l, lUUti
applications or issuance of development orders and development permits within unincorporated
Monroe County concerning the redevelopment or conversion of existing uses and structures related
to marine facilities, including commercial marinas and the working waterfront, that result in
diminished public water access or loss of working waterfront, except as provided herein.
Section 6. Development Allowed. During the period that these Interim Regulations are in effect,
notwithstanding any other provisions oflaw the following development is allowed:
(a) The holder of a Conditional Use Pennit issued prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance shall be entitled to develop according to the provisions of the Conditional Use
Permit.
(b) None of the restrictions set forth in this Ordinance shall prevent issuance of a permit for
general maintenance, repair and/or safety improvements, nor for any modifications,
improvement or expansion to an existing marine facility that does not diminish public access
and does not result in the loss of working waterfront;
(c) None of the restrictions set forth in this ordinance shall apply to an application for a
building permit or development approval for any development or redevelopment submitted
to the County on or before February 28, 2005; however other restrictions in the land
development regulations or the development approval may apply.
(d) None of the restrictions set forth in this ordinance shall apply to an application for a
building permit or development approval for any development or redevelopment that is
otherwise allowed pursuant to the Monroe County Land Development Regulations and the
2010 Comprehensive Plan.
Section 7: Preparation of Documents. The County Attorney and the Growth Management
Division are directed to begin immediately preparing the necessary documents in order to address
the Comprehensive Plan amendments that deal with the issues of redevelopment and conversion of
marine facilities and working waterfront that are or may be the subject of the proceedings with
DCA and the Division of Administrative Hearings and any land development regulations made
necessary by those amendments.
Section 8. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, item, charge or provision of
this ordinance is held invalid, the remainder shall not be affected by such invalidity.
Section 9. Inconsistent Provisions. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this
ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of said conflict.
Section 10. Transmittal to DCA. The ordinance is hereby transmitted to the Florida Department
of Community Affairs pursuant to Chapter 380, Florida Statutes and the DCA is requested to review
and approve it by an expedited Immediate Final Order in accordance in recognition of the public
importance of retaining the working waterfront, marine facilities, and public access to the
waterfront, and to prevent the threat of further loss thereof as "an immediate danger to the public
health, safety, or welfare".
Section 11. Effective Date: This ordinance shall be filed in the Office of the Secretary of State of
Page (j oJ7
May ~, ~UU~
the State of Florida, but shall not become effective until a notice is issued by the DCA or
Administration Commission approving the ordinance pursuant to Florida Statutes, Chapter 380.
Section 12. Exoiration. This ordinance shall stand repealed as of II :59 p.m. on the 365th day
after the effective date of the Ordinance, unless repealed sooner by the Board, or upon the adoption
of amendments to the Plan and land development regulations addressing public water access and
marine facilities.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida at
a regular meeting held on the _ day of , 2008.
Mayor Charles McCoy
Mayor Pro Tern Mario DiGennaro
Commissioner Sylvia J. Murphy
Commissioner George Neugent
Commissioner Dixie Spehar
By
Charles McCoy, Mayor
(SEAL)
A TrEST: DANNY L. KOLHAGE, CLERK
DEPUTY CLERK
Page 70f7
MEMORANDUM
MONROE COUNTY GROWTH MANAGEMENT DIVISION
We strive to be caring, professional andfair
Through:
Susan Grimsley, Asst. County Attorney ....~
Andrew Trivette, Director of Growth Managemeqt
~
May 9, 2008
To:
Board of County Commissioners
From:
Date:
RE:
Interim Development Ordinance for Working Waterfront
BOCC Special Meeting May 23, 2008
BOCC Regular Meeting June 18, 2008
The IDO temporarily halting re-development of properties considered as working
waterfront and/or containing public access to the waterfront will expire in July. The
purpose of the IDO was to allow enactment of Comprehensive Plan amendments
and land development regulations to retain most current uses and channel
compatible uses to those areas.
Some of the Comprehensive Plan amendments passed by the Board on February 4,
2008, were found to be "not in compliance" by the Department of Community
Affairs. This will eventually lead to a hearing before the Division of Administrative
Hearings (DOAH), unless prior negotiation or settlement is reached. Therefore,
land development regulations implementing such amendments have not been
enacted. Several affected parties have petitioned to intervene in the DOAH process
which may make the proceeding longer, but there is the potential to compromise or
resolve the issues with all parties prior to hearing.
Planning Staff recommends that the IDa be extended for another year, due to the
potential length and nature of the DOAH process and LDR adoption.
MEMORANDUM
MONROECOUNTYGROWTHMANAGEMENTD~mON
We strive 10 be caring, professional andfair
Through:
Date:
Board of County Commissioners
Susan Grimsley, Asst. County Attorney ,~
Andrew Trivette, Director of Growth Managem~1!l
May 9, 2008 ~
~.,.,.""",'gi~.;',..
~[~
To:
From:
RE:
Interim Development Ordinance for Working Waterfront
BOCC Speeial Meeting May 23, 2008
BOCC Regular Meeting June 18, 2008
The 100 temporarily halting re-development of properties considered as working
waterfront and/or containing public access to the waterfront will expire in July. The
purpose of the IDO was to allow enactment of Comprehensive Plan amendments
and land development regulations to retain most current uses and channel
compatible uses to those areas.
Some of the Comprehensive Plan amendments passed by the Board on February 4,
2008, were found to be "not in compliance" by the Department of Community
Affairs. This will eventually lead to a hearing before the Division of Administrative
Hearings (DOAH), unless prior negotiation or settlement is reached. Therefore,
land development regulations implementing such amendments have not been
enacted. Several affected parties have petitioned to intervene in the DOAH process
which may make the proceeding longer, but there is the potential to compromise or
resolve the issues with all parties prior to hearing.
Planning Staff recommends that the IDO be extended for another year, due to the
potential length and nature of the DOAH process and LDR adoption.
\
(l. ~ II ~lol,
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
Meeting Date: June 18. 2008
Division: Growth Manal!ement
Bulk Item: Yes No -X..
Department: Planninl! & Environmental Resources
Staff Contact: Susan Grimslev & Richard Jones
AGENDA ITEM WORDING: A public hearing to consider a resolution to extend an Interim Development
Ordinance (IDO) deferring the acceptance of applications for redevelopment and/or conversion of marine
facilities including commercial marinas and working waterfronts for one year after the effective date or when
applicable comprehensive plan .li.i'l>. ~4 A. .1J.....I-W.,..i.. become effective.
ITEM BACKGROUND: Monroe County is experiencing the loss of and redevelopment of marine facilities
including commercial marinas and the working waterfront. The County found it necessary to enact an Interim
Development Otdinance deferring the acceptance of development applications that seek development approval
for the redevelopment and conversion of marine facilities and working waterfront properties until land
development regulations are adopted. However, Comprehensive Plan amendments were adopted February 4,
2008 and were found "not in compliance" by the DCA. The proposed plan amendments are now in the DOAH
process, involving several parties. Staff believes the IDO should be extended for another year, due to the
potential length and nature of the hearing process and LDR adoption.
PREVIOUS RELEVANT BOCC ACTION:
February 2005 - Approved contract with South Florida Regional Planning Council (SFRPC) and Florida
Atlantic University (F AU) to develop a Marine Management Strategic Plan.
July 2005 - Adopted Ordinance No. 017-2005 - An IDO deferring the acceptance of development applications
for the redevelopment and conversion of marine facilities.
March 2006 - Accepted fmdings of the marine Management Strategic Plan.
June 2006 - Extended the IDO by Resolution 241-2006.
September 2006 - Approved contract with SFRPC to develop a Marina Siting Plan, Working Waterfronts
Preservation Master Plan and draft land development regulations for working waterfront preservation.
April 2007 - Held a workshop to discuss preservation options, allowing staff to complete land development
regulations and begin process for adoption.
July 2007 - Extended IDO until July 9, 2008 by Resolution 265-2007.
September 2007 - Approval of Transmittal Resolution 301-2007 to DCA
February 2008- Adoption of Comprehensive Plan Amendment Otdinance 008-2008
May 23, 2008 - I" Public Hearing held
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT CHANGES:
STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Approval
N/A
BUDGETED: Yes
SOURCE OF FUNDS:
No
TOTAL COST: N/A
COST TO COUNTY:
REVENUE PRODUCING: Yes
No
AMOUNT PER MONTH_ Year
APPROVED BY:
County Atty -X- OMBlPurcbasing _ Risk Management_
DOCUMENTATION: Included X
Not Required_
DISPOsmON:
AGENDA ITEM #
May 12, 2008
*
ORDINANCE NO. 2008
AN ORDINANCE BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXTENDING INTERIM
DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE NO. 017-2005; ADOPTING AN
INTERIM DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE DEFERRING THE
ACCEPTANCE OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS FOR THE
REDEVELOPMENT AND CONVERSION OF MARINE FACILITIES,
INCLUDING COMMERCIAL MARINAS AND THE WORKING
WATERFRONT, UNTIL NECESSARY LAND DEVELOPMENT
REGULATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS
ARE DRAFTED AND EFFECTIVE; PROVIDING FOR
EXEMPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND REPEAL
OF INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR
TRANSMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS (DCA) AND THE SECRETARY OF STATE;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR AN
EXPIRATION DATE
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY MAKES THE
FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW:
I. The Board of County Commissioners (Board or BOCC) at its meeting of August 18, 2004,
directed staff to have a public water access and marine facilities plan prepared for Monroe
County.
2. The Board of County Commissioners discussed a policy of "No Net Loss" of working
waterfront or public access to the water at its December 16, 2004 meeting.
3. Monroe County has experienced the loss of working waterfront and the loss of public access
to the water due to the redevelopment of marine facilities, including commercial marinas, and the
working waterfront, including boat yards, wet and dry storage, fish houses and commercial
fishing vessel dockage, at an unprecedented rate.
4. Further loss of working waterfront and public access in the County is and will be detrimental
to the economic and social well being and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the
County.
5. If the 2010 Comprehensive Plan (Plan) and Land Development Regulations are not amended
to control certain conversions and redevelopment, future losses of working waterfront and public
access will negatively affect the economy and bring an end to critical marine services (e.g. boat
yards), commercial marinas that are available to the public, and traditional trades associated with
commercial fishing.
6. Preserving the status quo for a temporary period of time will prevent re-development that
could be inconsistent with the Plan and/or with pending changes to the Plan or land development
regulations.
7. A number of owners of waterfront properties are exploring the possible change of use of their
f'ag~ , of7
May 12, 2008
property to private residential uses and private exclusive use of dockage which will further
decrease the public water access and/or working waterfront.
8. Goal 212 of the Plan directs the County to prioritize shoreline land uses and establish criteria
for shoreline development in order to preserve and enhance coastal resources and to ensure the
continued economic viability of the County.
9. Goal 213 of the Plan directs the County to ensure adequate public access to the beach or
shoreline.
10. Objective 502.1 of the Plan directs the County to promote the preservation and enhancement
of the existing ports and port related activities.
II. The acceptance or processing of development applications during the term of this ordinance
would result in confusion for property owners, inefficiencies in governmental services, and
potentially redundant review processes and may unreasonably affect the expectations of property
owners.
12. The approval of development applications for conversions and redevelopment may result in
the continued and irreversible loss of public access and working waterfront.
13. The exemption of certain uses and development activities, as provided herein, advances the
intent of this Ordinance and will not diminish public access or further the loss of working
waterfront.
14. The County recognizes the need to amend comprehensive plan and land development
regulations and programs to preserve marine facilities including commercial marinas that offer
public water access and provide for working waterfront.
15. The Board at its meeting of January 19, 2005, voted to contract with the South Florida
Regional Planning Council to prepare the public water access and marine facilities plan and
implementation measures including Plan amendments and Land Development Regulations.
16. The County has committed necessary staff and resources to the development of these policies
and regulations.
17. The Board at a regular meeting on January 19, 2005, directed staff to prepare an ordinance
deferring acceptance of applications for redevelopment of marine facilities including commercial
marinas and the working waterfront (boat yards, wet and dry storage, fish houses and commercial
fishing vessel dockage) that would diminish public access or result in the loss of working water
front, while staff prepared amendments to the Plan and Land Development Regulations.
18. Following direction of the Board, the Growth Management Division staff immediately
undertook the development of an Interim Development Ordinance and preparation of a contract
for the development of a public water access and marine facilities plan and implementation
measures including Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Regulations.
19. Interim Development Ordinance (IDO) No. 017-2005 was enacted on July 20, 2005, and
extended until July 10, 2007 by Resolution 241-2006 and until July 9, 2008 by Resolution 265-
2007.
20. The Board adopted the Marine Management Strategic Plan on March 15,2006.
21. On April 30,2007 the South Florida Regional Planning Council completed the Working
Waterfront Preservation Master Plan.
Page 2 of7
May 12, 2008
22. During the time the IDO was effective, planning staff prepared, Planning Commission
reviewed, and the Board approved Plan amendments that were transmitted to the Department of
Community Affairs (DCA) on September 19, 2007.
23. Following the receipt of Objections, Recommendations and Comments from the DCA dated
December 7,2007, planning staff revised the proposed Plan amendments and the Board adopted
amendments on February 4, 2008.
24. The DCA by Notice of Intent (NO!) dated March 31, 2008, found five of the provisions
which would most significantly affect development to be "Not in Compliance" (Policy 101.4.7,
Policy 101.4.21, Policy 212.5.4, Policy 219.1.1 and Policy 219.1.2).
25. The NO! triggered further administrative processes, including but not limited to, mediation,
conciliation and settlement discussions, and hearings with the DCA and other affected parties,
along with enacting land development regulations, all of which will likely take up to a year to be
presented to the BOCC for adoption.
26. The legislation concerning the working waterfront Plan amendments is still in progress and
drafting ofland development regulations is underway.
27. This Interim Development Ordinance and the amendments to the Plan and land development
regulations are necessary to protect the health, safety, and general welfare of the public and to
advance the policies set forth in the Plan.
28. The utilization of the moratorium device as a temporary measure to facilitate government
decision making, study and adoption of comprehensive plan and land development regulations is
a legitimate governmental tool to facilitate logical and considered growth, and as a means of
avoiding inefficient and ill-conceived development.
29. The County finds that it is necessary to enact an Interim Development Ordinance to continue
to defer the acceptance of development applications that seek development approval for the
redevelopment of waterfront properties that could result in the loss of public water access and
working waterfront.
30. Chapter 125, F.S. authorizes the Board to adopt ordinances to provide standards protecting
against imminent and immediate threat to the health, safety and welfare ofthe citizens of Monroe
County.
31. The County finds that a 365-day deferment of development applications and approvals as
provided herein is reasonable and is the minimum necessary to protect the health, safety, and
general welfare of the citizens of the County and to implement the Plan.
32. The temporary deferral of development applications and approvals, as provided herein, is not
intended nor shall it be construed to inhibit the existing lawful use of properties in accordance
with the Comprehensive Plan and land development regulations.
33. This Interim Development Ordinance constitutes a valid exercise of the County's police
power and is otherwise consistent with Section 163.316, et seq., F.S., which, inter alia,
encourages the use of innovative land use regulations including provisions such as moratoria to
implement the adopted comprehensive plan.
34. On May 20, 2008, the Planning Commission held a properly noticed public hearing and
found the draft Interim Development Ordinance to be consistent with the adopted Plan.
35. On May 23, 2008, and on June 18,2008, the Board reviewed and considered the extension of
Ordinance No. 0] 7-2005 and adoption of this Interim Development Ordinance.
Poge j of7
May 12, 2008
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA:
Section 1. Findings. The above Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law are hereby adopted
and incorporated by reference herein as the factual basis which necessitates this action.
Section 2. Purpose and Intent. The purpose of this Interim Development Ordinance is to
continue to implement the Board's intent to temporarily limit further redevelopment and
conversion of marine facilities that result in the loss of working waterfront and diminish public
access to the water, in order to implement the Commission's policy of "no net loss" of working
waterfront and public water access to marine facilities while the County and other affected
persons continue the administrative process triggered by the NO!. Pursuant to its lawful
authority and the pending legislation doctrine as set forth in Smith v. Ctzv of Clearwater. 383
So.2d 681 (Fla. 2d DCA, 1980) the Board hereby establishes the interim development
regulations set forth in this Ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect until the
expiration of this legislation.
Section 3. Definitions. As used in this Ordinance, the following terms shall have the
definitions provided [unless the context clearly provides otherwise]:
a. "Commercial marina" shall mean any facility or facilities, having three or more slips, docks,
or docking spaces, conducting business involving the sale, repair, rental, storage, and servicing
of boats, and including accessory retail uses. The term includes a licensed commercial facility
which provides secured public moorings or wet storage for private pleasure vessels or
commercial vessels on a leased basis. The term does not include privately owned individual
berths or docks accessory to land based dwell ing units.
b. "Existing structures and uses" shall mean a structure in existence as of February 28, 2005, and
the customary and regular uses of that structure up to and including February 28,2005.
c. "Marine facility" shall mean commercial marinas, the working waterfront, boat ramps, and
any other locations that provide public access to the navigable waters of the state.
d. "Public access" shall mean the ability of the public to physically reach, enter, or use beaches
and shores. The term shall have the same meaning as defined in Rule 9J-5.003(97), Florida
Administrative Code.
e. "Working waterfront" shall mean a parcel or parcels of real property that are used for water
dependent boat yards, wet storage of boats and vessels, commercial fish houses (fish landings,
processing and packaging) and commercial fishing vessel dockage. The term does not include
commercial marinas providing dockage for pleasure watercraft.
f. "Water-dependent uses" shall mean activities which can be carried out only on, in or adjacent
to water areas because the use requires access to the water body for water borne transportation,
including ports or marinas, and recreation. The term shall have the same meaning as defined in
Rule 9J5-003( 137), Florida Administrate Code.
Page 40f7
May l, lUUIS
g. "Water-enhanced uses" shall mean activities that are not water-dependent uses but benefits
economically or aesthetically by its location adjacent to or on the waterfront. The term includes
dock side bars, restaurants, hotels, motels, and residential uses.
Section 4. Deferred Action. Staff is directed to continue to defer the following from the date of
March 1,2005, as prescribed in Ordinance 017-2005, until the expiration of this 100:
a) Accepting or processing development applications relating to redevelopment
or conversion of existing uses and structures for:
(I) any change of use of a commercial marina from a water-dependent use to
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities
into individual parcels regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansi~ns existing marine
facilities which would d' 'nish public ac, ~s .or res in aIoss of workingl 1,1
waterfront;-1tft6. ) '\<c+ t"t'S(lj4 s (\, JAAAJ l')C.o( ij,1'Vl~f I ~ ltvi:L r-
(4) any change of us a arcel of lJcels of working waterfront to a ('t ,f-e"
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use. !-b.)'~
b) Issuance of building permits for redevelopment or conversion of existing uses C'4\"~
and structures for:l . i I f (' I,.,,' '.I.J-
-rn::,-+ :'~,?~~h~ IJ1''ft...L<,J(~ tIfJ.Wl4< C ~vtt'v 'jJ-e,(1I1, (f1f'/LV
(I) any change of use ofa commercial marina from a water-dependent use to tr..vk '
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use; '. ,"
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities t I'\,.:) ""l.'l,
into individual parcels regardless of type of ownership; J
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine
facilities which would diminish public access or result in a loss of working
waterfront; and
(4) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront to a
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use.
c) Issuance of development orders and development permits of existing uses
and structures for:
(I) any change of use of a commercial marina from a water-dependent use to
a water-enhanced or a non-water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities
into individual parcels regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine
facilities which would diminish public access or result in a loss of working
waterfront; and
(4) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront to a
commercial marina or a non-water dependent use.
Section S. Moratorium. During the time this ordinance is in effect as specified herein, there
shall be a moratorium upon the issuance of building permits, acceptance of development
Page 50f7
May l, lUUIS
applications or issuance of development orders and development pennits within unincorporated
Monroe County concerning the redevelopment or conversion of existing uses and structures related
to marine facilities, including commercial marinas and the working waterfront, that result in
diminished public water access or loss of working waterfront, except as provided herein.
Section 6. Development Allowed. During the period that these Interim Regulations are in effect,
notwithstanding any other provisions of law the following development is allowed:
(a) The holder of a Conditional Use Permit issued prior to the effective date of this
Ordinance shall be entitled to develop according to the provisions of the Conditional Use
Permit.
(b) None of the restrictions set forth in this Ordinance shall prevent issuance of a pennit for
general maintenance, repair and/or safety improvements, nor for any modifications,
improvement or expansion to an existing marine facility that does not diminish public access
and does not result in the loss of working waterfront;
(c) None of the restrictions set forth in this ordinance shall apply to an application for a
building penn it or development approval for any development or redevelopment submitted
to the County on or before February 28, 2005; however other restrictions in the land
development regulations or the development approval may apply.
(d) None of the restrictions set forth in this ordinance shall apply to an application for a
building permit or development approval for any development or redevelopment that is
otherwise allowed pursuant to the Monroe County Land Development Regulations and the
2010 Comprehensive Plan.
Section 7: Preparation of Documents. The County Attorney and the Growth Management
Division are directed to begin immediately preparing the necessary documents in order to address
the Comprehensive Plan amendments that deal with the issues of redevelopment and conversion of
marine facilities and working waterfront that are or may be the subject of the proceedings with
DCA and the Division of Administrative Hearings and any land development regulations made
necessary by those amendments.
Section 8. SeverablUty. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, item, charge or provision of
this ordinance is held invalid, the remainder shall not be affected by such invalidity.
Section 9. Inconsistent Provisions. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with this
ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of said conflict.
Section 10. Transmittal to DCA. The ordinance is hereby transmitted to the Florida Department
of Community Affairs pursuant to Chapter 380, Florida Statutes and the DCA is requested to review
and approve it by an expedited Immediate Final Order in accordance in recognition of the public
importance of retaining the working waterfront, marine facilities, and public access to the
waterfront, and to prevent the threat of further loss thereof as "an immediate danger to the public
health, safety, or welfare".
SectIon 11. Effective Date: This ordinance shall be filed in the Office of the Secretary of State of
Page 60f7
May l, lUUt!
the State of Florida, but shall not become effective until a notice is issued by the DCA or
Administration Commission approving the ordinance pursuant to Florida Statutes, Chapter 380.
Section 12. Exoiration. This ordinance shall stand repealed as of II :59 p.m. on the 365th day
after the effective date of the Ordinance, unless repealed sooner by the Board, or upon the adoption
of amendments to the Plan and land development regulations addressing public water access and
marine facilities.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida at
a regular meeting held on the _ day of , 2008.
Mayor Charles McCoy
Mayor Pro Tern Mario DiGennaro
Commissioner Sylvia J. Murphy
Commissioner George Neugent
Commissioner Dixie Spehar
By
Charles McCoy, Mayor
(SEAL)
ATTEST: DANNY L. KOLHAGE, CLERK
DEPUTY CLERK
Page 70f7
May 12. 2008
*
ORDINANCE NO. 2008
AN ORDINANCE BY THE MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXTENDING INTERIM
DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE NO. 017-2005; ADOPTING AN
INTERIM DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE DEFERRING THE
ACCEPTANCE OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS FOR THE
REDEVELOPMENT AND CONVERSION OF MARINE FACILITIES,
INCLUDING COMMERCIAL MARINAS AND THE WORKING
WATERFRONT, UNTIL NECESSARY 'l..1J'IIil,e..H\&Urlllfl1'
U881. lIeUIi AND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS
ARE DRAFTED AND EFFECTIVE; PROVIDING FOR
EXEMPTIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND REPEAL
OF INCONSISTENT PROVISIONS; PROVIDING FOR
TRANSMITTAL TO THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY AFFAIRS (DCA) AND THE SECRETARY OF STATE;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR AN
EXPIRATION DATE
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MONROE COUNTY MAKES THE
FOLLOWING FINDINGS OF FACT AND CONCLUSIONS OF LAW:
1. The Board of County Commissioners (Board or BOCC) at its meeting of August 18, 2004,
directed staff to have a public water access and marine facilities plan prepared for Monroe
County.
2. The Board of County Commissioners discussed a policy of "No Net Loss" of working
waterfront or public access to the water at its December 16, 2004 meeting.
3. Monroe County has experienced the loss of working waterfront and the loss of public access
to the water due to the redevelopment of marine facilities, including commercial marinas, and the
working waterfront, including boat yards, wet and dry storage, fish houses and commercial
fishing vessel dockage, at an unprecedented rate.
4. Further loss of working waterfront and public access in the County is and will be detrimental
to the economic and social well being and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the
County.
5. If the 2010 Comprehensive Plan (Plan) and Land Development Regulations are not amended
to control certain conversions and redevelopment, future losses of working waterfront and public
access will negatively affect the economy and bring an end to critical marine services (e.g. boat
yards), commercial marinas that are available to the public, and traditional trades associated with
commercial fishing.
6. Preserving the status quo for a temporary period of time will prevent re-development that
could be inconsistent with the Plan and/or with pending changes to the Plan or land development
regulations.
7. A number of owners of waterfront properties are exploring the possible change of use of their
Page I of7
. '
Section 4. Deferred Action. StaiIis directed to continue to defer the' following from the date of March 1,2005, as
prescribed in Ordinance 017-2005, until the expiration of this !DO:
.. Accepting or processing development applications relating to redevelopment or conversion of existing uses and
structnres for:
(1) any change ofuse of a commercial marina from a water-dependent use to a water-enhanced or a non-
water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities into individual parcels
regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine facilities which would diminish
public access or result in a loss of working waterfront; and
(t) any change of use of a parcel of parcels of working waterfront te a e8RllBBfd..J lUQ.I ;"1(1 VI (1 llvu .Yat~r
d",\.Mldcftt 1t~C that results in new oennanent market-rate residential strnetnres or traDsient
develonment
-. Issuance of building permits for redevelopment or conversion of existing uses and structures for:
(I) any change of use ofa commercial marina from a water-dependent use to a water-enhanced or a non-
water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities into individual parcels
regardless oftype of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine facilities which would diminish
public access or result in a loss of working waterfront; and
(6) any change of use ofa parcel of parcels of working waterfront b..," ...vuuu....'"'~ul n.miftflsr a R8R ...ll<<r
dq~'...u~..l u.n., that results in Dew oermaneDt JDarket..rate residential strudttres or transient
develoDment
t) Issuance of development orders and development permits of existing uses and structures for:
(I) any change of use ofa commercial marina from a water-dependent use to a water-enhanced or a non-
water-dependent use;
(2) any division of uplands and/or bay bottom of existing marine facilities into individual parcels
regardless of type of ownership;
(3) any modification, improvements or expansions of existing marine acilities
public access or resuh in a loss of working waterfront; and
diminish
(,) any changeffUSe ofa parcel of parcels of working waterfront;, fud';;:; :::"_u
Jr..-ndent 'fi~7 hat results iD new oernUlnent market-rate resid D . res or t ient
develonment
5 of 7
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