St. Augustine Development News
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City Commission
Published: Jun 22, 2026
St. Augustine Commission Reviews Lewis Boulevard Rezoning Proposals
The City Commission conducted the first reading of Ordinances 2026-15 and 2026-16 concerning rezoning properties at 65 and 69 Lewis Boulevard. Ordinance 2026-15 rezones approximately 1.23 acres from an abandoned Planned Unit Development (PUD) to Residential General Office (RGO), aligning with the existing Residential Medium Density Mixed-Use land use designation. Ordinance 2026-16 rezones approximately 0.77 upland acres to RGO and 8.3 waterward acres to Open Land, also consistent with current land use. These changes address expired PUDs and aim to bring the zoning into conformity with the comprehensive plan. The Planning and Zoning Board had previously recommended approval for both ordinances. The properties include existing marina and restaurant facilities.
Carriage Horse Welfare Debated at St. Augustine Commission Meeting Amidst Safety Concerns
Multiple speakers voiced strong concerns regarding the welfare of carriage horses in St. Augustine. Thomas Reynolds highlighted the stress horses endure due to noise, heat, and dehydration, leading to colic risks. Catherine Zoda presented a video of a horse spooking due to wind, emphasizing the danger of placing prey animals on busy streets and citing code violations. Heather Wilson detailed examples of alleged mistreatment, including inadequate veterinary care, poor stabling conditions, and insufficient rest periods, arguing for the abolition of the industry. Patricia Ramos recounted instances of unattended horses, spooking incidents, and accidents, calling the industry cruel and dangerous.
St. Augustine Considers Land Use and Zoning Changes for Spring Street Property for Habitat for Humanity
The City Commission heard the first reading of Ordinances 2026-17 and 2026-18 regarding properties at 18 and 20 Spring Street. Ordinance 2026-17 amends the future land use map for approximately 0.51 acres from Residential Low Density to Residential Medium Density. Ordinance 2026-18 rezones the same property from Residential Single-Family 2 (RS2) to Residential General 1 (RG1). The property was formerly a church with parking and is slated for potential purchase by Habitat for Humanity, St. Johns County, Inc. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval with a proffered agreement that the property would revert to previous designations if no longer used by Habitat for Humanity. A use-by-exception is involved, conditional on these approvals.
St. Augustine Commission Meeting Addresses Horse Welfare, Business Displacement, Local History, and Land Use Proposals
During public comment, speakers expressed strong opinions on various local issues, including the welfare of carriage horses, the potential displacement of a local business (Manly Toys and Hobbies), and the importance of preserving local history and community heritage, particularly for Lincolnville. There were also discussions regarding rezoning proposals and the need for public restrooms. Commissioners addressed ex parte communications and deliberated on lease extensions and budget priorities. The meeting also included the reading of a proclamation for the 250th anniversary of American independence and the introduction of ordinances related to land use and zoning.
St. Augustine Explores "Park Bench History Project" to Enhance Historical Education and Tourism
The Legacy Community Team presented a proposal for a "Park Bench History Project" to install 10 statues throughout St. Augustine over four years to commemorate historical figures and events. The project aims to engage children and visitors by creating interactive, visually appealing historical displays. The team is seeking city funding, requesting $20,000 annually for four years, to supplement county and private donations. The presentation included a list of potential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Menorcan Heritage, Sisters of St. Joseph, Franklin Smith, Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Zora Neale Hurston, Francisco Menendez, and others. The project intends to use QR codes for interactive educational content and aims to become a walkable historical tour, enhancing the city's appeal and educational value.
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