HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-03-51RESOLUTION R-03-51
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA PURSUANT TO CHAPTER
63 FLORIDA STATUTES APPROVING A MODIFIED COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR, AND EXPANDING THE AREA OF, THE SEBASTIAN
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AREA; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS AND
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City Council has, by Resolution R-95-17, adopted a Community Redevelopment Plan
for the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Sebastian has by Resolution R-02-57 established a finding
of blight for additional lands (hereinafter called the "Sebastian Boulevard Triangle") adjacent to and adjoining
the lands subject to the initial Community Redevelopment Plan; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to provide for the removal of such blighted areas and redevelop
such areas, pursuant to the Community Redevelopment Act of 1969, hereafter referred to as the "CRA", as
contained in Florida Statutes, Chapter 163, Part llI, by expansion of the boundaries of the existing
redevelopment area; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that it is in the best interest of the citizens to modify the entire
Community Redevelopment Plan to address development patterns that have emerged since adoption of the
initial Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City Council affirms its earlier findings of blight for these areas; and
WHEREAS, the Council affirmatively finds that all the prerequisites of F.S. 163.360(7), which are
adopted hereto by reference, exist; and
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission, sitting as the Land Planning Agency for the City of
Sebastian, has reviewed the modified Plan and found it to be consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN,
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA, as follows:
Section 1. FINDINGS. The City Council has determined that the findings set forth above are true
and correct and adopt the same.
Section 2. MODIFIED PLAN. The Community Redevelopment Plan as adopted by Resolution R-
95-17 is hereby superceded by that modified Community Redevelopment Plan (hereinafter called the "Modified
Plan") prepared by the Iler Planning Group on behalf of the Community Redevelopment Agency, a copy being
enclosed herewith as Exhibit "A", which shall be implemented in accordance with the requirements of law.
Section 3. APPLICATION. The Modified Plan shall govern rehabilitation, conservation and
redevelopment of the blighted areas designated in Resolutions R-95-12 and R-02-57, and the area of the
Community Redevelopment District is hereby expanded to include all of said lands.
Section 4. CONFLICT. All resolutions or parts of resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby
repealed.
Section 5. SEVERABILITY. In the event a court of competent jurisdiction shall hold or
determine that any part of this resolution is invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the resolution shall not
be affected and it shall be presumed that the City Council of the City of Sebastian did not intend to enact such
invalid or unconstitutional provisions. It shall further be assumed that the City Council would have enacted the
remainder of this resolution without said invalid or unconstitutional provision, thereby causing said remainder
to remain in full force and effect.
Section 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. This resolution shall take effect as provided by law.
The foregoing resolution was moved for adoption by Councilmember
seconded by Councilmember lqcCo 1 lure
Mayor Walter Barnes
Vice-Mayor Ray Coniglio
Councilmember Joe Barczyk
Councilmember James Hill
Councilmember Nathan McCollum
Hi 11 The motion was
and, upon being put to a vote, the vote was as follows:
absent
aye
aye
aye
aye
The Vice-Mayor thereupon declared this resolution duly passed and adopted this 10th day of December, 2003.
ATTEST:
Sally A. M/ato, CMC
City Clerk
CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA
a~Yay Coniglio
Approved as to form and legality for
reliance by the City of Sebastian:
Rich Stringer, City Attomely0
The Modified Master Plan, Exhibit A, is on file in the City Clerk's office under
PROJECTS-Districts-CRA District
Exhibit A is also attached to the scanned 12/10/03 Agenda Packet
City of Sebastian
Community Redevelopment Master Plan
December 3, 2003
CITY COUNCIL
Walter Barnes, Mayor
Ray Coniglio, Vice-Mayor
Joseph Barczyk
Jim Hill
Nathan McCollum
CITY MANAGER
Terrence Moore
GROWTH MANAGEMENT
Tracy Hass, Director
Jan King, Manager
CRA Master Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................ iv
INTRODUCTION & HISTORY .................................................................... Page 1
A. Redevelopment Planning Process
B. Public Participation Program
II.
EXISTING CONDITIONS IN THE REDEVELOPMENT
AREA ............................................................................................................... Page 4
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
Regional Relationships
Sebastian Community Redevelopment Area
Land Use and Zoning
Performance Overlay Districts
Public Facilities and Environmental Features
Redevelopment Needs
Economic and Market Conditions
III.
PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT PLAN ...............................................Page 13
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G,
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
Primary Public Involvement Findings
Guiding Principles
Conceptual Planning Districts
Overall Concept Plan
Transportation and Pedestrian improvements
Greenways, Parks, and Trails
Urban Design Recommendations
Infrastructure Improvements
Land Use and Zoning Recommendations
Program and Policy Recommendations
Neighborhood Impact and Affordable Housing Element
Land and Building Acquisition
Conformance with Sebastian and Indian River County Comprehensive
Plans
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan
IV.
FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY ..................................................... Page 36
A. Tax Increment Revenues
B. Capital improvements Program
C. Project Financing
OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES ................................... Page 42
A. CRA Term
B, Annual Reporting
C. Plan Update and Amendments
APPENDIX ...................................................................................... Page 44
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
City of Sebastian CRA Expansion Finding of Necessity
City of Sebastian Resolution R-02-57
Revised CRA Legal Description
Existing LDC - Performance Overlay Districts
Economic Analysis
Site Development Regulations and Permitted Uses Summary
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan
FIGURES
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
Redevelopment Plan Summary Map
Regional Location Map
CRA Context Map
Vacant Land Map
Future Land Use Map
Zoning Map
Conceptual Districts Map
a. Park District
b. Sebastian Boulevard Mixed-Use District
c. U.S.-1 Commercial District
d. Riverfront District
e. Sebastian Boulevard South District
Major Thoroughfares (Transportation)
Parks, Sidewalks, and Bikeways Map
Existing Parking Map
Land Use/Zoning Recommendations Map
Riverview Park District Shod-Range Plan
Riverview Park District Future Vision Plan
Riverview Park District Typical Roadway Cross-Section
Sebastian Boulevard "Triangle" Concept Plan
Sebastian Boulevard Eastbound Typical Roadway Cross-Section
Sebastian Boulevard Westbound Typical Roadway Cross-Section
U.S. Highway One Typical Roadway Cross-Section
Sebastian, Florida
iii
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Executive Summary
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Background
This Community Redevelopment Master Plan is intended to guide the redevelopment of
Sebastian's downtown and adjacent areas delineated within the Community
Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Area boundaries (Figure 3). The City originally created
the CRA in 1995 for an area generally east of the FEC Railroad right-of-way to the
eastern City limits, and subsequently adopted a redevelopment plan for that area. The
purpose of this Plan is to address the changing conditions in the original CRA, and
expand it to include a 106 acre area generally encompassing the "Sebastian Boulevard
Triangle" west of the FEC Railroad right-of-way. This Plan unifies the 1995 CRA
boundary and the expansion area as one cohesive CRA, and presents conceptual
district recommendations, potential policy amendments, and capital improvements
intended to meet the City's redevelopment goals.
Implementable recommendations form the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council's
(TCRPC) 2000 and 2001 charettes have also been incorporated into the redevelopment
recommendations'that follow. These charettes were conducted with extensive
community involvement, and were well received by the City.
The City of Sebastian originally created a CRA as a means to ensure that the downtown
and surrounding vicinity would develop with a coherent community vision, and to
encourage reinvestment throughout the CRA. CRAs have three primary benefits in
promoting redevelopment. These include:
1. Tax Increment Financing (TIF), which diverts future property tax revenues from
Indian River County and the City of Sebastian to a trust fund specifically intended
for redevelopment projects and programs;
2. Increased eligibility for federal and state grants that can be used for infrastructure
improvements, business development, and property acquisition; and
3. A master planning approach and implementation strategy for the CRA.
It should be noted that although the Sebastian CRA wile bring outside tax revenues into
the City, it will not increase the property tax millage rate on any CRA properties.
Economic Trends
The recommendations contained within this Plan are based on recent economic analysis
of the Sebastian Market Area, which reveals:
Property value increases within Downtown Sebastian increased from $45.83
million to $66.17 million between Fiscal Years 2001 and 2004, indicating that the
area is positively perceived by the market;
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Executive Summary
· There will be an estimated demand for between 600 and 700 new residential
units in the Market Area annually through 2010;
· Higher value single-family attached (townhouse) development should be
encouraged for the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area, and will create land
values substantially higher than under current industrial zoning;
· The market area could support the development of approximately 100,000
square feet of new retail space annually through 2010, in addition to
approximately 150,000 square feet of retail space in the vicinity of Rive~view
Park; and
· Office development and hospitality uses will not likely play a significant role in
redevelopment.
Redevelopment Concept Plan
The Redevelopment Plan Summary Map (Figure 1) provides an overview of proposed
redevelopment concepts within the CRA. These concepts include the following:
· Improvements to Riverview Park and the surrounding vicinity, utilizing public-
private partnerships to create improvements to the park and surrounding
streetscape, while also encouraging development of retail space adjacent to the
park on privately-owned land;
· Creation of a mixed-use district within the Sebastian Boulevard Tdangte Area,
incorporating single-family 'attached (townhouse) development and
complementary retail and commercial space, in addition to creating a new "lake"
and park within the district;
· Enhancement of the streetscape on Riverside Drive, including the installation of
waterfront pedestrian "pocket parks" where feasible;
· Considering the future creation of a Main Street activity center, increasing the
usability of the City-owned park and capitalizing on the historical museum as a
cultural amenity;
· Streetscape enhancements along US-1 throughout the CRA, including enhanced
pedestrian lighting, trees and vegetation, and well-delineated pedestrian crossing
areas;
· Encouraging commercial developers of land fronting on US-1 to "build to the
street" to create a more defined urban edge;
· Installation of gateway treatments at major points of entry to the City along
Sebastian Boulevard and US-l; and
· Retaining current building height and density requirements within the CRA to
reinforce the "Old Florida Fishing Village" design theme.
The linchpins of this Plan are the eventual redevelopment of the Sebastian Boulevard
Tdangle Area, as well as the redevelopment of Riverview Park and the surrounding
vicinity. The Sebastian Boulevard Tdangle Area serves as an important gateway to
Downtown Sebastian, and the concepts presented within this plan will create a vibrant
small-town neighborhood within this area that integrates well into the adjacent residential
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Executive Summary
communities. Riverview Park is already a magnet for the southern portion of the CRA.
Redevelopment of the park and surrounding vicinity will create additional recreational
opportunities for residents of Sebastian, and will provide attractive opportunities for
complementary retail and commercial development oriented to the park.
In addition to the above, numerous urban design recommendations are proposed
throughout the CRA, infrastructure improvements are proposed to allow for anticipated
future development, and other improvements are proposed that maintain the small-town
feel of Sebastian while also providing a demand and population base for the Downtown.
These policy changes and improvements, coupled with coritinued public involvement as
redevelopment takes place, should ensure the success of the CRA throughout its 30-
year term.
Revenue Projections
In 2003, the CRA is expected to receive a total payment of approximately $250,000,
which includes City and County tax increment revenues. With the addition of the
Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area, the CRA is projected to generate approximately $1
million in annual increment by 2012. This continued growth will provide the City with
considerable bonding leverage for large-scale projects such as streetscape and
infrastructure improvements.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Legend
Areawide RecommendalJon~
1. Re.in 2-3 story maximumbuilding
height.
2. Modify community design guidelines to
~bfforee "Old Florida
Fishing Village" design theme.
Ca ~atI ro mnts
l. Pdve~view Park ~nprove~nents.
2. Stre~tscap¢ imprevements to US-l,
Privet ~ide Drive, and Sebastian
Bouievard (east and westbound).
3. Reeeufigut~ boat trailer parking.
4. Develop a stormwator park.
/
/
Activity Center
Redevelopment Plan Summary Map
City of Sebastian CRA ~. ~
, ~,~ !,
Figure 1 .o~, ~, P~ ~o ~;
~mley-Horr~ ~1 Associates, Inc,
CRA Master Plan Introduction & History
I, INTRODUCTION & HISTORY
The City of Sebastian has recognized for many years that significant areas of the
downtown and surrounding community are in need of redevelopment, as evidenced by
the City's initial efforts in the early 1990's towards the establishment of a Community
Redevelopment Agency (CRA).
In 1990, the Riverfront Study Committee was created, and was charged with developing
recommendations regarding the future development of the riverfront area. In 1995, the
City of Sebastian completed a study to identify and delineate the boundaries of a
redevelopment area, which resulted in the adoption of a CRA and a Redevelopment
Plan for the waterfront and U.S.-1 area. In 2000 and 2001, the Treasure Coast Regional.
Planning Council (TCRPC) conducted two (2) urban design visioning charettes with the
community to create conceptual designs for the Sebastian Boulevard corridor as well as
the Riverfront area.
In 2002, the City renewed its commitment to redevelopment by completing a study
(Appendix A) to assess the feasibility of adding approximately 106 acres of land
generally centered around the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle just west of U.S.-1
("Triangle Area"), and further resolved to update and rewrite the 1995 Redevelopment
Plan to reflect existing conditions and community needs and incorporate this expansion
area. The City Council subsequently passed Resolution R-02-57 (Appendix B) in
December 2002, making a finding of necessity for redevelopment and directing the
amendment of existing CRA boundaries to include the Triangle Area.
This Plan presents a unified vision for the redevelopment of Sebastian's CRA. It has
been developed with the intent that it be reevaluated and updated on a five (5) year
basis to reflect current conditions, and uses a ten (10) year planning hodzon for capital
projects and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenue projections. The urban design
recommendations, development of conceptual districts, and specific site
recommendations presented herein are intended to be phased throughout the life of the
CRA to ensure gradual and progressive redevelopment of the area as funding becomes
available.
A Brief History of the Sebastian Area
The following early historical timeline is adapted from A Guide to Historic Sebastian and
Roseland, published by the Sebastian Area Historical Society, Inc:
· 1882: Reverend Thomas New opened a post offica in the Sebastian area,
naming it "Newhaven".
· 1884: Silvanus Kitching takes over the post office, renaming it "Sebastian".
· Late 1880's: The first road in Sebastian, Louisiana Road, is created on the sand
ridge.
Sebastian, Florida
Page I of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Introduction & History
· 1893: The Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Indian River Railroad is completed,
spurring shipping and commerce. A railroad station is subsequently built in
Sebastian.
· 1903: Pelican Island is designated the nation's first National Wildlife Refuge.
· 1905: The area's first schoolhouse is constructed on Louisiana Avenue.
· 1920: The population of the Sebastian-Roseland area increases to over 200.
Sebastian is considered an "established fishing center".
· 1924: Sebastian is incorporated as a municipality. By this time, the City had "a
municipal power and light plant, a telephone company and an ice plant."
· 1926: The land boom ends as the Great Depression begins.
The City recently completed a study delineating a National Register of Historic Places
District in the downtown area, including portions of the CRA. Approximately 13
contributing historic structures were identified within the part of the District boundary
inside the CRA, as well as several contributing structures not within the District
boundaries but within or adjacent to the CRA.
A. Redevelopment Planning Process
This Community Redevelopment Master Plan is intended to serve as a guide for the
effective redevelopment and enhancement of the redevelopment area. The following ten
step planning process was employed in the preparation of this Plan:
1. Assess existing conditions in the proposed Sebastian CRA Area;
2. Conduct stakeholder interviews and distribute a survey, and subsequently
establish a community vision;
3. Use Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council charettes, public input, and staff
input to define guiding principles;
4. Identify problems and opportunities;
5, Outline land use and zoning changes necessary to facilitate appropriate
development;
6. Identify public projects to help solve problems and spur redevelopment;
7. Review private development plans for consistency with redevelopment efforts;
8. Identify opportunities for public/private partnerships;
9. Prepare a realistic Redevelopment Plan odented to effective implementation; and
10. Provide for Redevelopment Plan updating as conditions change,
This process proved effective in the preparation of this Community Redevelopment
Master Plan, as welt as in helping community participants understand the steps involved
and how they fit together.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 2 of 49
CRA Master Plan Introduction & History
B. Public Participation Program
Community involvement was an essential component in the planning process for this
Redevelopment Plan.
Stakeholder interviews were held with community leaders and CRA property owners to
identify key redevelopment issues in the proposed CRA Area. The Sebastian
community provided opinions regarding building height, traffic circulation and parking,
zoning issues, density and intensity of development, and redevelopment opportunities.
Additionally, CRA and City Council workshops were held on September 10 and
November 12, 2003 to present preliminary Plan concepts and solicit comment.
The Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC) conducted two community
visioning charettes with the City of Sebastian in November 2000 and March 2001. The
community feedback resulting from these charettes was incorporated into two reports,
entitled County Road 512, A Citizen's Master Plan, and t~iverfront District, a Waterfront
Town, respectively. With the guidance of City leadership and the community,
implementabte design recommendations from each of these documents have been
incorporated into this Redevelopment Master Plan.
A community redevelopment area opinion survey was included in the June edition of the
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce's newsletter. A cross-section of
community citizens and business owners responded to this survey, providing additional
community input to help guide the Plan's principles and recommendations.
Through this process, City staff and the consulting team were able to develop a
Redevelopment Master Plan for the City of Sebastian tailored to the community's vision
for this very unique area.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 3 of 49
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
II.
EXISTING CONDITIONS IN THE
REDEVELOPMENT AREA
A. Regional Relationships
Figure 2 shows the geographic relationship of the Sebastian Redevelopment Area to the
rest of Sebastian and Indian River County. Sebastian's most significant natural resource
is the Indian River, with which the City shares the majority of its eastern boundary. The
City of Vero Beach lies near the southern boundary of Indian River County, and the
Town of Fellsmere is located generally west of Sebastian along C.R. 512. Sebastian
also lies between the unincorporated communities of Roseland to the north and
Wabasso to the south, and has nearby access to Interstate 95, Florida's Turnpike, and
U.S. Highway 1, the latter of which bisects the redevelopment area.
B. Sebastian Community Redevelopment Area
The boundaries of the Sebastian Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) are delineated
in Figure 3. A legal description of the CRA is located in Appendix C. The CRA,
including the Triangle Area, is generally bound by the Indian River to the east, City limits
to the north and south, and the Flodda East Coast Railroad right-of-way to the west.
The Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area is centered on the east and westbound split of
Sebastian Boulevard.
For the purposes of this P/an, that part of the Indian River included in the City and the
CRA are excluded from all calculations and analyses. This area, zoned "Conservation",
makes up approximately 437 acres.
Lessing out the "Conservation" zoned area overlaying the Indian River, the gross area of
the Sebastian CRA Area is 401 acres (including the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area),
comprising 4.6% of the City of Sebastian's total land area. Excluding road rights-of-way,
the acreage decreases to 299 acres ("net area"). Approximately 66% (196 acres) of the
net area is developed and supports a variety of uses including residential, commercial
retail, heavy commercial/light industrial (typically automobile repair facilities, self-storage
facilities, etc.), parks and recreation, public/institutional, and marine-related uses.
Approximately 34% (103 acres) of the net area is undeveloped, excluding existing
parklands. Vacant land is depicted on Figure 4.
C. Land Use and Zoning
Figures 5 and 6 show the land use and zoning patterns, respectively, in the
Redevelopment Area. The City's Future Land Use and Zoning are nearly identical
Sebastian, Flarida
Page 4 of 49
12-3-03
Figure 2. Sebastian CRA Regional Location Map
Legend
,~,..~,~. Kknley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
City of Sebastian CRA
Fil~ure 3 ¢ ''*'
Legend
] Vacant Residential
] Vacant Commercial
] Vacant Indusffial
~ CP~ Boundary
..... ~mle¥-Horn ar~...~ssociates, lac.
Vacant Land
City of Sebastian CRA
Fieure 4
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
overlays in the CRA, with the exception of approximately 15 parcels within the 1995
CRA boundaries. The land use in the CRA is predominantly "Commercial Riverfront"
(109.7 acres), which accounts for 36.7% of the land in the CRA (lessing out road dght-
of-ways) and provides for a broad mix of uses including residential, recreational, marine-
related uses, restaurants, and other commercial uses. An additional 20.2% (60.3 acres)
of the land in the CRA is zoned for "Commercial Waterfront Residential" use, which is
similar to the "Commercial Riverfront" designation, providing a variety of opportunities for
recreational, residential and commercial uses. A mix of residential, commercial, and
industrial land uses shares the balance of the remaining 299 net acres within the CRA.
Zoning designations within the CRA closely resemble land use patterns, with the three
most predominant designations being "Commercial Riverfront" at 107.8 acres (36%),
60.4 acres (20.2%) zoned "Commercial Waterfront Residential", and 55 acres (18.4%)
zoned for Industrial use. The tables below provide a breakdown of land use and zoning
in the CRA.
Sebastian CRA
Land Use within CRA Boundaries, 2003
Zoning/
Land Use Nat Acres* % of total
Commercial Riverfront 109.7 36.7%
Commemial Waterfront Residential 60.3 20.2%
Industrial 55.3 18.5%
Public Service 42,7 14.3%
Commemial General 14.6 4.9%
Medium Density Multiple Family Residential 12;7 4.2%
Commercial-512 3.5 1.2%
Source: City of Sebastian, I/er Planning Group, 2003.
* Acreages are approximate. Inaccuracies are the result of rounding.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 5 of 49
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
Sebastian CRA
Zoning within CRA Boundaries, 2003
Zoning/
Land Use Net Acres* % of total
Commercial Riverfront 107.8 36.0%
Commercial Waterfront Residential 60.4 20.2%
Industrial 55.0 18.4%
Public Service 46.2 15:4%
Commercial General 14,6 4.9%
Medium Density Multiple Family Residential 11.3 3;8%
Commercial-512 3.5 1.2%
Source: City of Sebastian, Iler Planning Group, 2003.
* Acreages are approximate. Inaccuracies are the result of rounding.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 6 of 49
12-3-03
Legend
[] Medium D~sity Multifamily
[] Public Service
] Commercial River Front
[] Commercial 512
...... l<'~l~Hom E~n..d.._Kssofi ales, Inc,
Future Land Use
City of Sebastian CRA
Fimtre 5
9 o~r~!rI
V)tD u~.tls~qo~ jo ,(1.tD
dulA~ ~u.tuoZ
'~1 'sell~oss~ pug tiJOH-~lu~)~
l~PUI []
puo~o~
Legend
........ IC~mlev~c,m and ,t,~ociates, Inc.
Zoning Map
City of Sebastian CRA
Figure 6
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
D, Performance Overlay Districts
The City of Sebastian currently has two adopted Performance Overlay Districts in place
in the City's Land Development Code: the Riverfront Overlay District, and the CR512
Overlay District. The purpose of these performance overlay zones, which encompass
the entire CRA, is to provide for special protective measures in these areas by
"impos(ing) additional or different development standards than those that would
otherwise apply."
The following are brief descriptions of each Performance Overlay District, as well as their
respective site design requirements. Section III of this Plan presents recommendations
for additional regulations within these districts.
Riverfront Overlay District Regulations
The Riverfront Overlay Distdct was created to "encourage development and
redevelopment within the Riverfront District that includes promotion of traditional building
types with arcades, balconies, and porches." Moreover, the District is intended to
encourage architectural design consistent with the "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme of
Sebastian. This Distdct covers all of the CRA east of the Florida East Coast Railroad.
Design criteria within the District are summarized as follows:
· Buildings with facades fronting on more than one street should have consistent
detailing on all building elevations on street frontages;
· Porches are encouraged;
· Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences, or landscape buffers are encouraged
along property lines;
· Buildings with larger facades are required to provide an open vista through which
to view adjacent water bodies;
· Flat, blank, unarticulated, or "massive" building facades are prohibited;
· Lighting may not follow the form of a building, and neon lighting, fiber optics, and
similar systems are prohibited;
· Accessory structures should be consistent in design to the site's primary building;
· Whites, earth tones, and subdued gray building colors are encouraged, while
fluorescent and bright colors are prohibited.
In addition to the above, the District regulations contain guidelines for roof slopes,
landscaping, exterior wall finishes, signage, and other relevant site design
considerations.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 7 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
CR512 Overlay District Regulations
The CR512 Overlay Distdct includes all propedies abutting Sebastian Boulevard within
the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area. This Distdct does not include properties within
the CRA west of the FEC Railroad right-of-way that do not have lot frontage on
Sebastian Boulevard.
The purpose of the CR512 Overlay District is to provide an "attractive, will maintained,
orderly and uncluttered appearance" to the corridor through the installation and
maintenance of landscaping, appropriate building architecture, and through
encouragement of multi-modal transpor[ation accommodating mass transit, and
pedestrians in addition to the automobile.
A summary of site design criteria within this District is as follows:
· Corporate signature architecture is prohibited, including fiat roofed convenience
stores, gas stations, and canopies for gas stations, car washes, and drive-
through facilities;
· "Kitsch" amhitecture (buildings not resembling a typical structure) is prohibited;
· Materials, finishes, signage, and colors of shopping centers and structures
developed on shopping center out-parcels shall be compatible with each other;
· Buildings with facades fronting on more than one street shall have similar design
considerations and consistent detailing on all street frontages;
· Flat, blank, unarticulated, or "massive" facades fronting on a roadway ara
prohibited;
· Advertising is prohibited on any exposed amenity or facility (e.g. benches, trash
containers);
· "Visually offensive elements" (e.g. walk-in coolers, electrical equipment, etc.) as
well as "nuisance elements" must be screened form view on ail sides;
· Base building colors must related to wall and parapet wall areas and shall be
limited to white and light neutral colors in the warm range.
For complete Land Development Code language for each Performance Overlay District,
please see Appendix D.
E. Public Facilities and Environmental Features
Boat access in the CRA Area occurs via the Indian River, which runs east of and
contiguous to the CRA Area. In addition, passive recreation opportunities are provided
at Riverview Park in the southem podion of the CRA, and through riverfront pedestrian
trails and observation areas. A park housing the Chamber of Commerce and the
Sebastian Historical Museum is located on the south side of Main Street between Indian
River Ddve and U.S.-I.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 8 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
Municipal facilities within the CRA Area include the City's Public Works compound,
located between the Sebastian Boulevard east and westbound split. The City also
maintains boat and vehicle parking facilities throughout the CRA, and is in the process of
building a boat-docking pier east of Riverview Park.
Critical environmental resources within the CRA Area include the rich habitat provided
by the Indian River. In addition, a small lake between the Sebastian Boulevard east and
westbound split provides potential recreational opportunities in the westernmost section
of the CRA.
F. Redevelopment Needs
A number of significant factors indicating a need for redevelopment were identified in the
1995 Sebastian Community Redevelopment Plan as well as the 2002 C/ty of Sebastian
CRA Expansion Finding of Necessity. A summary of these blighting factors is presented
as follows:
1. Evidence of deterioration and a decrease in the CRA Area's relative share of the
tax base;
2. Presence of dilapidated and/or deteriorated structures;
3. Evidence of insufficient or deteriorated infrastructure (as of 1995), including
sidewalks, paved roadways, drainage, water facilities, and sewer facilities;
4. Parking deficiencies;
5. Faulty lot layout, due mostly to small lot sizes not meeting current zoning code
requirements;
6. A diversity of land ownership, which necessitates substantial parcel assembly for
new development to take place; and
7. Land use conflicts, where incompatible existing uses conflict with commercial and
industrial-zoned areas.
The City has made great stddes towards improving conditions within the CRA since the
completion of the odginal plan in 1995, particularly with regard to infrastructure
deficiencies. The purpose of this Redevelopment Plan is to provide the vision,
strategies, and implementation necessary to provide for continued appropriate and
effective redevelopment of the Sebastian CRA.
Sebastian, Florida
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CRA Master Plan Existing Condition,~
G. Economic andMarket Conditions
Key Market Findings
The key findings of a recent economic analysis of the Sebastian Market Area performed
by the consultant is as follows. For the purpose of this analysis, the Sebastian Market
Area was defined to include the City of Sebastian and the unincorporated 'areas
surrounding it within Zip Code 32958. It also includes other nearby unincorporated areas
such as Vero Lakes Estates, as well as the portion of the barrier island lying north of
Wabasso Road. While in-flow into the market can be expected from areas outside that
just defined, redevelopment will be primarily defined by the market forces at work within
the defined Sebastian Market Area.
Existing Economic Conditions
Review of the tax rolls for Downtown Sebastian reveals that the between Fiscal
Years 2001 and 2004 the taxable value of property contained therein increased
from $45.83 million to $66.17 million. While a portion of the increase was due to
the record levels of appreciation experienced by real preped7 generally in recent
years, it also indicates that the area is positively perceived by the market and that
some amounts of new development have been occurring even in the absence of
a formal redevelopment plan.
The Sebastian Market area is characterized by strong growth in terms of
population and income. Between now and 2010, population within the area is
expected to increase by approximately 4 percent a year with the result that the
area should have about 45,000 residents by the latter date compared to the
slightly more than 32,600 it had at the time of the 2000 Census. Median
household income is expected to increase from approximately $52,500 in 2000 to
in excess of $75,000 in 2010. It should be noted that income vades greatly
throughout the Market Area with the households on the north end of the barrier
island as a group being considerably more affluent than those on the mainland.
From a retail perspective, this makes it essential that island households be made
to a feel a part of the Sebastian community.
During the 1990's, private sector employment in Indian River County increased
by approximately 1,000 workers on an average annual basis. Specific data for
the Sebastian Market Area is not available. Private sector employment within the
County -- also apparently within the Market Area -- is dominated by the Retail
Trade, Health Care Services and Leisure and Hospitality sectors. Manufacturing
and Wholesale Trade, which are the prototypical users of industrial space, are
significantly smaller employment sectors and not growing at significant rates. As
a result the small amounts of industrial space added since 1998 have primarily
been occupied by service establishments such a repair shops. There has also
Sebastian, Florida
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CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
been only minor amounts of office development because with the exception of
Health Care Services, the sectors of the economy that typically use such space
like Finance, Insurance and Real Estate and Professional Services have also not
being growing quickly.
Future Economic Trends
There will be an estimated demand for between '600 and 700 new residential
units Jn the Market Area annually though 2010. Historically, residential demand
for new residential units within Sebastian has been overwhelmingly oriented
toward single-family homes, which would be inappropriate in the Downtown area.
The area is essentially zoned to accommodate Iow-density multi-family units
such as townhouses. It is likely that approximately 50 such higher value --
$200,000 and above .... units could be absorbed annually along the dverfront if
the land were available. It is recommended that such development be
padiculady encouraged to occur along the portion of the riverfront south of Main
Street where it would benefit from proximity to Riverfront Park while, in turn,
serving to energize the park. The preceding estimate of absorption is based on a
number of factors including:
o The successful development of multi-family units on the barrier island's
riverfront; and
A segmentation analysis of the market represents a significant portion of
prospective demand will be comprised of households headed by persons
over the age of 55 with incomes in excess of $75,000.
Higher value residential development of the townhouse type should be
encouraged in the portion of the area targeted for redevelopment that is located
within the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area. Residential units developed on
this property could also potentially benefit from excellent water views. This area
is in relatively close proximity to the FEC right-of-way; however, development of
the type proposed has been successfully undertaken in locations equally close
the FEC line in the Cities of Boynton Beach and Delray Beach in Palm Beach
County. In fact, the opportunity to buffer the proposed development from the
impacts of rail traffic is greater in this instance than in those other locations.
It is recognized that property within the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area is
currently zoned for industrial uses but sufficient land is likely available for all
foreseeable industrial development within the redevelopment target area exists
south of Sebastian Boulevard. Based on data relating to sales of industrial land in
the area, designation of land within the Triangle Area to residential, inclusive of
the parcel that the City will soon be disposing of, would produce higher land
values than its current designation.
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CRA Master Plan Existing Conditions
As a result of the population and income growth already discussed, it is
estimated that the Sebastian Market Area could support the development of
approximately 100,000 square feet of new retail space annually through 2010. It
is recommended that up to 150,000 square feet of retail space be encouraged to
occur in the vicinity of Riverfront Park at eventual build out and be designed for
specialty shops, entertainment uses, and restaurants. Such development should
serve as a catalyst for the higher value townhouse development in the area south
of Main Street previously discussed. It could also serve to attract residents of the
barrier island to Downtown Sebastian.
Office development will not likely play a significant role in redevelopment, and
current office uses in the City (e.g. medical offices) meet primarily local needs.
The demand for hospitality uses in the City will be modest, due to current
demand and the potential for new hotel development, which is limited by the
City's three-story height limit for all new development.
More detailed information regarding the economic potential of the CRA is provided in
Appendix E.
Sebastian, Florida
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
III. PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT PLAN
A. Primary Public Involvement Findings
The Community Redevelopment Planning process utilized an extensive program of
public involvement to ascertain the constraints, opportunities, and future vision for the
area from the people that live, work, and play there. Stakeholder interviews were
conducted along with two CRA/Council workshops.
In addition, the findings of the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council (TCRPC)
Rived=ront and Sebastian Boulevard Charettes have been integrated into the
recommendations contained within this Plan. These charettes were well attended, and
provided ample opportunity for community involvement in shaping the conceptual design
of the riverfront and Sebastian Boulevard areas.
Consensus comments resulting from public involvement are summarized below.
Downtown Character
Stakeholders and community leadem agree that the "Old Florida Fishing Village" design
theme needs to be maintained in Sebastian, while still providing opportunities for
appropriate residential and commemial growth. There is consensus that development
should give deference to the histodc character of the City, and redevelopment efforts
should ensure that Sebastian retains a "small town feel". This can be accomplished
through the use of effective urban design, integrating appropriate amhitectural styles and
uses to create a vibrant and successful downtown.
Building Height and Density
Stakeholders and City leadem agree that maintaining a three (3) story building height
limit throughout the CRA is essential to preserving the "Old Flodda Fishing Village"
ambiance of Sebastian. In addition, there is broad support for maintaining a two (2)
story height limit on the east side of Indian River Drive.
The City's Land Development Code currently (as of 2003) allows a maximum residential
development density of eight (8) dwelling units per acre. The recommendations
presented in this Plan use this density as a guideline for new residential development
within the CRA.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Zoning and Land Use
The community is generally pleased with the existing mix of land uses along the
dvenCront. Community opinions regarding land use and zoning included the following:
· Encouragement of mixed-use development throughout the CRA;
· Maintaining heavy commercial / light industrial land uses in appropriate areas;
· Encouragement of additional complementary retail, restaurant, and
entertainment-type uses along the riverfront; and
· Allowance of mixed-use residential development in appropriate parts of the
Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area.
Traffic and Circulation
Traffic and circulation concerns in the community generally include the following:
· Creating connections between Indian River Drive and U.S.-l;
· Traffic calming on U.S.-l;
· Streetscape beautification.
In particular, pedestrian links between U.S.-1 and Indian River drive should be
strengthened so the districts can benefit from each other. Additionally, slowing down
traffic on U.S.-1 is a priority, as well as providing additional streetscape enhancements
to both U.S.-1 and Indian River Drive.
Parks and Recreation
Stakeholders support the creation of additional parkland within the CRA, including the
enhancement of existing facilities. Creating connectivity between greenspaces through
a pedestrian pathway system, greenway connectors, and bicycle paths may provide
future recreation enhancement opportunities.
Parking
There is community support for creating additional parking in the downtown area,
particularly in along the riverfront in the vicinity of Main Street to Riverview Park. This
plan provides recommendations to provide additional parking, which include
reconfigudng existing parking, identifying opportunities for additional parking, and
modifying some east-west streets connecting U.S.-1 and Indian River Drive to provide
supplementary on-street parking.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
B. Guiding Principles
Using the public involvement findings and background data and analysis as a basis, the
following principles were developed to guide plan preparation and implementation.
Land Use
· Encourage residential and mixed-use development in the Sebastian Boulevard
Triangle Area.
· Encourage retail uses adjacent to Riverview Park.
· Create an "Institutional" land use designation to include civic, non-profit, and
related uses.
Land Development Regulations
· "Double Front" buildings on Riverview Drive.
· Provide for expedited approval for development furthering the redevelopment
goals of the City.
· Recommend amendments to the City's existing Performance Overlay Districts as
appropriate to encourage appropriate redevelopment.
· Consider implementing regulations that will encourage primary and out-parcel
structures built to property lines along U.S.-I.
Architectural Style
· Enhance the character of Downtown Sebastian with architecture that addresses
the community's "Fishing Village" scale and feel.
· Create conceptual land use districts with distinct recommendations for character,
architectural style, and community identity.
· Create CRA entry features at west end of Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area
and on U.S.-l,
Vehicular Traffic and Circulation
· Make U.S.-1 a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly streetscape environment.
· Provide visual linkages between the riverfront and U.S.-I.
· Improve bicycle and pedestrian linkages from west Sebastian to the Riverfront.
Parking
· Address public and private parking needs in the Riverfront area.
· Increase public parking in Downtown.
· Establish additional on-street parking adjacent to recreation areas.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
· Ensure that private redevelopment projects provide an appropriate number of
public parking spaces.
Riverfront
· Maximize access potential of the Indian River with the addition of additional
marine-related uses and residential development,
· Implement water-based uses, such as a water"taxi".
Parks and Open Space
· Enhance existing recreation land in the CRA through appropriate adjacent urban
design.
· Provide for connectivity of recreation land throughout the CRA.
· Redesign Riverview Park.
· Enhance the design of Sebastian City Park on the south side of Main Street
between US-1 and Riverside Drive.
Neighborhoods
· Preserve and enhance the character of existing CRA neighborhoods.
· Ensure proper landscaping, lighting, sidewalks and signage in neighborhoods.
· Encourage compatible infill development.
Infrastructure
· Address infrastructure needs relative to water and wastewater treatment.
· Provide for enhanced stormwater management requirements in the CRA.
Tax Base
Generate the greatest possible growth in the area tax base consistent with the
redevelopment vision established in the plan. This will be maximized through
effective implementation of the land use policies, incentive programs and capital
projects.
C. Conceptual Planning Districts
To simplify urban design and land use recommendations, the CRA has been divided into
five (5) conceptual planning districts. Figure 7 depicts the division of these districts
throughout the CRA, and Figures 7-a through 7-e show land use and zoning within each
conceptual district. The following table shows a breakdown of zoning and land use
acreages within each conceptual planning district.
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Legend
Sebastian CRA Conceptual Districts
~,,~.~..~,,, Klmley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
City of Sebastian CRA .,
Figure 7 ~
LEGEND
N PARK DISTRICT
BOUNDARY
Land Use Legend
~ Commercial Rive~font
~ Public Service
~ Commercial Waterfront Residential
.~ Me, urn Density Mul~family
300 0 300
600 Feet
Figure 7-a: Park District
City of Sebastian CRA
LEGEND
N SEBASTIAN BOULEVARD
MIXED USE DISTRICT
BOUNDARY
/V FEC RAILWAY
Land Use Legend
~ Public Service
I Industrial
Commercial General
200 0 200 400 Feet
Figure 7-b: Sebastian Boulevard Mixed Use District
City of Sebastian CRA
S AN
LEGEND
N US 1 COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
BOUNDARY
1000
Land Use Legend
Public Service
Commercial Water[ront Residential
Commercial Riveffront
0 1000
2000 Feet
Figure 7-c: US 1 Commercial District
City of Sebastian CRA
LEGEND
N RIVERFRONT DISTRICT
BOUNDARY
Land Use Legend
Public Service
Commercial Waterfront Residential
400
0 400 800
Feet
MAIN STREET
Figure 7-d: Riverfront District
City of Sebastian CRA
/V
LEGEND
SEBASTION BOULEVARD
SOUTH DISTRICT
BOUNDARY
FEC RAILWAY
FLORIDA EAST COAST RAILWAY
Land Use Legend
Commercial 512
Industrial
2OO 0
200 400
600 Feet
Figure .7-e: Sebastian Boulevard South District
Date: 10/08/2003
City of Sebastian CRA
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Sebastian Conceptual Planning Districts
Land Use/Zoning Calculations
Area (sq. ft.) Acres
Sebastian Blvd. Mixed-Use District
Commercial General
Industrial
Public Service
635,456 15
617,760 14
361,562 8
Riverfront District
Public Service
Commercial Waterfront
43,539 1
2,229,228 53
Park District
Commercial Riverfront
Commercial Waterfront Residential
Medium Density Multifamily Residential
Public Service
105,577 2
142,522 3
508,227 12
473,036 11
US-1 Commercial District
Commemial Riverfront
Commercial Waterfront Residential
Public Service
3,589,268 86
191,163 4
1,096,646 25
Sebastian Blvd. South District
Industrial
Commercial 512
1,587,767 36
152,020 3
;ource: lief Planning Group, 2003.
These Districts are further referenced with specific recommendations in the urban design
and land use and zoning recommendations portions of this Plan.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
D. Overall Concept Plan
In using the Guiding Principles as a planning framework, a Redevelopment Plan for the
Sebastian CRA has been formulated to enhance the character of downtown Sebastian
and to embrace opportunities that exist in the CRA. This Plan is introduced in the
Executive Summary, and is shown in Figure 1. Opportunities include:
· Improvement of Riverview Park and a "local activity center" surrounding the
park, to include complementary retail uses, connectivity to the dverfront, and
streetscape improvements.
· Improvement of the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area to provide for mixed-
use development, connectivity to adjacent residential communities, and
streetscape improvements;
· Enhancement of the U.S.-1 streetscape to provide for greater pedestrian and
bicycle usability, as well as the installation of mature landscaping and trees;
· Creation of a Main Street activity center, incorporating improvements to the
City park and on-site buildings;
· Potential CRA/municipal boundary expansion to include the underutilized
parcel just south of the City; and
· Installation of gateway treatments at entrances to the City/CRA along
Sebastian Boulevard and US-1.
Additional opportunities for redevelopment are identified and further discussed
throughout this Plan.
E. Transportation and Pedestrian Improvements
Figure 8 depicts existing major transportation facilities within the CRA. Recommended
transportation and pedestrian improvements include:
*, Creation of new street(s) in Riverview Park, per Figures 12 and 13.
· New sidewalk construction in all districts as necessary to provide a
continuous sidewalk network throughout the CRA;
· Streetscape improvements to U.S.-l, Sebastian Boulevard east and
westbound, and Indian River Drive; and
· Creation of new streets in the Sebastian Boulevard Mixed-Use District.
Cost estimates are provided for these projects in Section IV(B).
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Legend
Major Thoroughfares
City of Sebastian CRA
Figure 8
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
F. Greenways, Parks, and Trails
Some of the most desirable amenities within a community are its recreation facilities.
The CPA's existing parks, sidewalks, and bikeways are depicted on Figure 9.
Recommended greenway, parks and trails features include:
Implementation of the Riverview Park conceptual plan; and
Enhancing connectivity between recreation areas throughout the CRA with
improved pedestrian and bikeway connections.
G. Urban Design Recommendations
Urban design guidelines and projects are recommended for development and
codification based on the design recommendations contained herein. Specific
components of several of the conceptual improvement projects introduced herein are
further discussed in additional sections (e.g. infrastructure) in this Plan. The following
conceptual projects and design issues, which are organized by conceptual planning
district, should be addressed.
Park District (Figure 7-a)
The Park District is the "heart" of the CRA, and should define the character of the City.
Proposed physical design improvements within this district are shown on Figures 12
through 14. These improvements include the following short-term (5-year)
improvements (Figure 12):
· Roadway improvements and streetscape for all roads within the immediate
vicinity of Riverview Park, including closing the western half of Harrison Street
between US-1 and Riverside Drive;
· Reconfiguration of the existing boat ramp parking area at the northwest corner of
Sebastian Boulevard and Riverside Ddve;
· Upgrades and renovations to Riverview Park;
· Expanding the park to include picnic pavilions, a participatory fountain, and a
new parking lot;
· Creating a pedestrian connection to Sebastian Square;
· Creating a mid-block pedestrian/vehicular "spine" to improve circulation and
create development "blocks";
· Reconfiguration of Hardson Street, including vacating the eastern half of the road
right-of-way; and
· Installation of new recreational piers, a proposed band shell, and restreom
facilities.
Specific urban design enhancements within this district will address:
Sebastian, Florida
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Legend
Parks, Sidewalks & Bikeways
Kimlev-Horn and A~od~le~, Ino.
City of Sebastian CRA
Figttre 9 ~
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
· Parallelon-street parking;
· Curb and gutter installation;
· Pedestrian and roadway lighting;
· Sidewalks;
· Street trees;
· Street furniture;
· Raised Pedestrian Intersections;
· Traffic circles with public art or architectural features; and
· Underground utilities.
Long-term (10 year) improvements are shown in Figure 13, and emphasize infill
commercial development adjacent to the park, and other large-scale redevelopment
initiatives in the district. Please note that while retail uses are encouraged adjacent to
the park, no commercial or other privately owned land use is recommended for the park
itself. Additionally, the development of this district (and generally, the CRA) should be
considered a public-private partnership. That is, infrastructure and physical
improvements to publicly owned land will be completed by the City, and complementary
retail and related uses will be developed by the pdvate sector in cooperation with the
City to ensure redevelopment goals are met.
Figure 14 shows a typical roadway cross-section within the Riverview Park District. This
cross-section features wide pedestrian arcades to provide shade for shoppers, a 16 feet
wide landscaped pedestrian zone adjacent to the roadway, and on-street parallel
parking.
Conceptual improvements to Sebastian City Park, located on the south side of Main
Street between US-1 and Riverside Drive, should also be considered within this district.
Creation of a future Main Street activity center may increase the usability of the park.
The City should also capitalize on the historical museum as a cultural amenity, and
investigate the feasibility of developing an expanded facility in the future.
Sebastian Boulevard Mixed-Use District (Figure 7-b)
The Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area Concept Plan is shown in Figure 15, and is
predicated on significant land use and zoning changes, which are presented in
Subsection I of this Section. Urban design and other conceptual improvements
presented in this plan are summarized as follows:
· Creation of mixed-use commercial areas and single-family attached (townhouse)
uses throughout the district;
· Creation of City gateway features at the Sebastian Boulevard east and
westbound split and at Sebastian Boulevard westbound and U.S.-l, to provide:
o Architectural features and/or flags;
o Signature landscaping;
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
o Specialty feature lighting; and
o A fountain feature at the conceptual new lake.
· Modification of the existing lake in order to create a park;
· Creation of pedestrian and visual connections between the commercial, mixed,
and residential multi-family uses;
· Realignment of property boundaries (e.g. parcel assembly) to create more usable
parcel configurations;
· Streetscape Sebastian Boulevard:
o Double rows of large shade trees;
o 10 feet wide pedestrian/bikeway;
o Placing structures between the roadway and parking areas;
o Installation of pedestrian and roadway streetlights;
o Specialty paving at key intersections;
o A 25 feet wide proposed parkway zone; and
o Pedestrian and vehicular connections to adjacent residential use.
· Creation of a connection to South Wimbrow Ddve:
o Traffic roundabout and focal point; and
o Vehicular and pedestrian connection to adjacent residential land use.
Figures 16 and 17 provide conceptual roadway cross-sections for Sebastian Boulevard
east and westbound, respectively.
U.S.-I Commercial District (Figure 7.c)
The U.S.-1 Commercial District is characterized by larger-scale auto-oriented
development, such as auto parts stores, big box development, drive-through restaurants,
and other linear stdp development common to arterial highways. Figures 12 and 13
primarily show improvements to Riverview Park, but also call for the following
improvements along U.S.-1. These improvements are shown as a typical roadway
cross-section in Figure 18.
· Streetscape enhancement:
o Large specimen Medjool Date Palms in median for scale and visual
statement;
o Decorative lighting in median where possible;
o Washington Palms along roadside;
o Decorative pedestrian-scale lighting along roadside;
o Bury existing utility lines; and
o Existing trees to remain.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
· Gateway features at the northern and southern entrance to the City along U.S.-l;
· Development of a stormwater park on the west side of U.S.-1 at the southern
boundary of the CRA to accommodate installation of drainage improvements in
the Downtown and to serve as a gateway statement; and
· Infill commercial development (Figure 13) to complement improvements to
Riverview Park and provide a linkage to the riverfront.
The Flodda Department of Transportation recently completed streetscape improvements
to U.S.-l. However, the CRA may provide adequate funding to install additional
features, such as mature landscaping (larger trees), street furniture, delineated
pedestrian crosswalks, a way finding system with banners and/or pedestrian kiosks, and
other functional improvements.
Riverfront District (Figure 7-d)
The Rivedront District extends along the river from Main Street to the northern boundary
of the CRA. Urban design considerations should be complementary to projects
completed in the Park District, and may include the following:
· Installation of picnic tables, covered seating areas, wildlife observation areas,
and "pocket parks" along the east side of Indian River Drive;
· Mature vegetation and tree plantings to provide continuous shade along
pedestrian paths;
· Installation of a grade-separated bicycle and pedestrian path with a vegetative
buffer between the path and the roadway;
· Pedestrian kiosks with information pertaining, to upcoming events, local
businesses, and recreation opportunities; and
· Pedestrian-scale lighting along the sidewalk to suppor~ evening use of recreation
facilities.
Sebastian Boulevard South District (Figure 7-e)
This district will continue to support light industrial land use; through market and
development trends, these uses have primarily resulted in heavy commercial uses (e.g.
automotive repair, storage, etc.). This district will be buffered from the Sebastian
Boulevard Mixed-Use District with adequate setbacks and vegetative landscaping. No
other significant urban design changes are recommended.
sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 22 of 49
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
H. Infrastructure Improvements
The Sebastian CRA is fortunate in that the majority of the infrastructure in the area is
suitable to support existing development as weir as limited redevelopment in the CRA,
which frees up Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds to be used on other redevelopment
projects and programs.
The 1995 Sebastian Commun~y Redevelopment Plan included a narrative providing a
brief analysis of infrastructure issues in the CRA. A brief summary of this information as
well as an updated analysis is as follows.
Sidewalks
The original Riverfront Study, completed in the early 1990s, identified pedestrian access
as a major development concern in enhancing the riverfront. The study recommended
the creation of a "linear park" along the eastern side of Indian River Drive, extending the
length of the CRA. The City has accomplished this goal. A wide, linear pedestrian path
has been constructed along the length of the riverfront in Downtown Sebastian, and has
been enhanced by the installation of landscaping, trees, seating areas and the
improvement of points of interest along the path, such as the City park on Main Street
and Riverview Park in the southern end of the CRA.
As the CRA continues to redevelop, emphasis should be placed on providing a
connected grid of pedestrian walks along existing City rights-of-way throughout the
Downtown, as well as the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area. The installation of
additional landscaped sidewalks could provide a means of pedestrian connectivity
between U.S.-1 and the riverfront, and connect the CRA's parks and green spaces.
Water, Sewer, and Drainage Facilities
The City has made substantial infrastructure improvements within the CRA since the
adoption of the original Community Redevelopment Plan. Additional visual and
functional improvements within the CRA may include the following:
· installation of stormwater facilities, including treatment ponds, in the areas of
the CRA currently not being served;
· Infrastructure improvements in the Sebastian Boulevard Tdangle Area to
support redevelopment efforts as presented herein;
· Upgrading water lines, as necessary, to provide for additional demand in
commercial and residential tire-flow requirements.
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Parking
Public parking is perhaps the most visible deficiency in the Downtown, particularly during
weekends and during events, when demand for parking facilities close to the riverfront
typically exceeds current capacity. The City has been addressing this issue through the
development of public parking facilities throughout the CRA; there are now
approximately 250 public parking spaces in the Downtown Area east of U.S.-l, not
counting parallel on-street parking, private lots, or unpaved boat trailer lots.
Approximately 168 parking spaces are provided in the northern CRA at a paved public
parking lots located at the southwest corner of Jackson Street and Riverside Drive
(Indian River Drive). Thirteen spaces are provided on Main Street adjacent to Sebastian
City Park, 25 spaces are provided in a linear public lot along Riverview Drive between
Fellsmere Boulevard and Coolidge Street, and 44 angled spaces are available adjacent
to Riverview Park. An inventory of these parking locations is provided in Figure 10,
Existing Parking.
Recommendations for providing additional parking in the Downtown are as follows:
· Require new development east of U.S.-1 to set aside part of their total parking as
public;
· Address public parking needs in the Land Development Code by adopting public
parking requirements in the City's Performance Oveday Districts;
· Consider entedng discussions to annex the underutilized land parcel and
structure ("Bealls") south of and contiguous to the City and CRA boundar7
between U.S.-1 and Riverside Drive. A cooperative agreement may be reached
with the owner of this development to provide occasional public parking;
· Provide a shuttle service during high demand pedods (e.g. weekends and during
events) so that satellite parking lots may be utilized.
· Consider developing additional parking in the Riverview Park Expansion Area, as
indicated on Figure 12.
Clearly, it is not in the best interest of the City to provide a large number of public
parking lots along prime Riverfront property within the CRA. The recommendations
above provide alternatives to meet the demand for public parking, while maintaining the
integrity and development potential of the CRA and Riverfront.
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CRA Master Ptan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
I. Land Use and Zoning Recommendations
Land use and zoning recommendations are included herein to address proposed land
uses according to the redevelopment concept plan, building height, mixed-use
development, urban design guidelines, and building setbacks. These recommendations
are shown on Figure 11.
Proposed Land Uses/Zoning by Conceptual Planning District
Existing site development regulations and permitted uses for each zoning/land use
district throughout the CRA are presented in Appendix F. Specific land use/zoning
recommendations presented below, and are organized by conceptual planning district.
Park District. No changes are proposed.
Sebastian Boulevard Mixed-Use District. Currently the Sebastian Boulevard Tdangle
Area is zoned for Public Service, Industrial, and Commercial General. The land uses in
the industrial-zoned areas is typically commemial in nature, and includes equipment
rental, automotive-based uses, and other similar uses. The land use/zoning throughout
this District should be changed to a new zoning/land use designation closely resembling
the requirements of the Commercial Waterfront Residential district (e.g.
Commercial/Residential Mixed Use), which will provide for appropriate mixed-use
development throughout the area such as single-family attached (townhouse) and
commercial mixed uses, and will support the existing clubs and lodges within the district.
U.S.-f Commercial District. No land use or zoning amendments are proposed.
However, the City should complete further study of how to mitigate the impacts of large
commercial development setback considerably from U.S.-I. These developments have
large amounts of parking in the front, and can create the image of a "sea of parking'
when traveling down the highway. The City should investigate adopting regulations for
an overlay area including all commercial pamels adjacent to U.S.-1 requiring a
reasonable part of a large development's out parcel space be dedicated to buildings built
close to (or on) the properly line, with parking behind the structure. This helps create a
more pedestrian-friendly urban edge throughout the district.
Riverfront District. No changes are proposed.
Sebastian Boulevard South District. No changes are proposed, with the possible
exception of changing the land use/zoning of all property fronting on Sebastian
Boulevard to Commercial 512.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 25 of 49
12-3-03
Legend
Existing Parking
City of Sebastian CRA
Figure 10
.... KJ mley-Ho m and,~Ass~ates, Inc. ~
Legend
US 1 Corcanercial District
512MixedUseDistrlct
512 SouthDisttict
CRA Boundary
,
1. Modify community design guidelines to
reinforce "Old Florida Fisbing Village~
2, Continue to reqtdre 'double frontage" for
buildings baeldng up to Riverside Drive.
3. Retain2-3 stotymaxJmumb~dldlng
h~ight.
4. Reta~ 8 dwelling uints per acre
max/mum development density.
projec~ al
Land Use/Zonine Recommendations
City of Sebastian CRA ~
~mley-H0rn and Ass0dates, Inc. Figure 11 .o,., o, .....
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Building Height & Density
Stakeholders and City leadership are in favor of maintaining the current three-story
building height limit (two stories east of Indian River Drive) and eight dwetling unit per-
acre maximum zoning density throughout the CRA. The recommendations in this plan
are compliant with these regulat!ons.
The City may wish to reexamine this issue as part of the three to five-year update of this
Plan to ensure compatibility with future needs. Hotel and related development often
necessitates taller building heights and greater density and/or intensity, and the current
regulations may limit the tourism potential of Downtown Sebastian.
Urban Design Guidelines
The City's current urban design guidelines have been successful in promoting
appropriate development within the CRA. These guidelines should be reevaluated
concurrent with redevelopment to ensure their continued effectiveness. Issues that
should be addressed immediately include the following:
The CR 512 Overlay District regulations only apply to those properties with
frontage on Sebastian Boulevard. The zoning oveday should be expanded to
include all property within the CRA west of U.S.-l; and
The CR 512 Overlay Distdct regulations limit building awnings to a maximum of
30% of the length of any single fa~de, which limits the ability to create covered
sidewalks. The City should revisit this requirement in those areas suitable for
commercial mixed-use zoning in the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area.
Implementation Schedule
Zoning/land use changes and amendments to the City's urban design guidelines should
be completed within one year following Plan adoption.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 26 of 49
12-3-03
Anglgr*s
Ramp
1. Roadway improvements and
streetseapo for all roads within
immediate vicinity of Riverview
Poxk
· Parallel on-stxeet parking
Curb & Gutter
Pede~rianfRoadway Lighting
Sidewalks
Street Trees
Park
parking area
Sebastian
Square
9. Potion of Harrison Street vacated
· East half of ROW vacated to
~rcat¢ a contiguous public open
space along river f~ont
10. New recreational piers, proposed
bond shell, observation deck,
Riverview Park District "Short-Range" Plan
Ci~ of Sebastian CRA
Figure 12
1. Infill conuncrcial devclo
· Encourage eonsogdation of
lots into blocks
· Buildings addressing the street
· 10' setbaekat tmdfloor
· Pedestrian scale architcc[ure ·
· Outdoor caf~'dw~udow
shopping
2. Encourage redevelopment of
Seb~ian Square
· Activity center/Southam
Note: If any ~ldlng$ oxe removed os a
result of redevelopment, Chapter
163, F.S, requires the owner to he
fully compensated, including
relocation costs,
Riverview Park District "Future Vision" Plan
City of Sebastian CRA
Figure 13
· Parkway zone (25')
Medium
Residential
Community
Institutional
Single Family
Attached
(Townhomes)
Shagle Family
Attached
(Townhomes)
Single Family
Attached
(Townhomes
Sebastian
Elementary
School
Commercial
Mixed
Commercial
Mixed
Mixed
Commercial
Mixed
Industtial
Sebastian Boulevard "Triangle"
City of Sebastian CRA
Figure 15
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
J. Program and Policy Recommendations
Successful CRAs typically put programs in place to attract business, encourage pdvate
reinvestment in the CRA, and market the area locally and regionally to support tourism
and solicit visitors and residents to "rediscover" the redeveloped Downtown. The
following programs are recommended to address the existing needs and goals for the
CRA.
Business Assistance Programs
Business assistance programs are vital to attracting and retaining desirable commercial,
retail, and hospitality uses to the CRA. Each of the programs introduced below should
be implemented with the qualification that all assistance provided should further
redevelopment goals.
CRA Commercial Facade Improvements Program: Existing commercial facades in the
CRA would benefit from the initiation of a fa(;ade improvements program to restore or
improve existing building facades in a manner consistent with adopted urban design
guidelines. This program could be funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and/or
a cash match from participating business owners.
Local Business Expansion Program: The CRA has an opportunity to partner with local
business and professional organizations in providing grant or loan funding for qualified
business expansions within the CRA Area. Qualifying criteria for programs similar to this
typically include the project's consistency with redevelopment goals, business income,
potential for growth, and a commitment to maintain the current business address for a
certain time period after improvements are completed. Typical projects may include:
· Building fac..ade enhancements, in partnership with the Commercial FaCade
Improvements Program;
· Signage enhancements;
· Landscaping and greenspace improvements; and
· Other site improvements resulting in enhanced property values.
Historic Building Rehabilitation Program: Part of the City's National Register of Historic
Places District is located within the boundaries of the CRA, This program will provide
matching funds, a loan, or a grant to owners of histodc structures within the CRA for
building rehabilitation and restoration activities. This program will encourage adaptive
reuse of historic structures, and may also provide partial funding for new construction
adjacent to historic structures that are built in a complementary architectural form and
scale.
Development Liaison/Expedited Permitting Program: Provides expedited service and
processing of development permits to encourage a particular location, expansion, or
redevelopment of properties within targeted CRA areas.
Sebastian, Fiodda
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Facility Location Program: Provides a mechanism for assisting in the recruitment of
business to the CRA and provides desirable businesses with mapping and market
information, a list of market-ready sites, links to other federal, state and local programs
associated with economic development, and a liaison with the area's real estate
professionals and chambers of commerce.
Commeroia/Code Compliance Program: Provides assistance to owners of commercial
properties within the CRA to address Code compliance issues, including
parking/drainage deficiencies, structural improvements, and property maintenance
issues.
General Program Recommendations
Main Street Program: The Main Street program involves addressing redevelopment
needs through a four-point approach that includes economic restructuring, promotions,
marketing, and design as tools to address redevelopment needs within a designated
program area. The City of Sebastian is encouraged to explore the Main Street program
as a parallel program towards revitalizing the commercial component of the downtown.
Downtown Marketing Program: Sebastian has an opportunity to market itself online,
through newspapers and magazines, and at regional travel hubs (e.g. airports) to bring
in additional toudsm.
Advertising/-95: The CRA is close enough in proximity to 1-95 to benefit from billboard
advertising for the DOwntown area.
Neighborhood /nfl// Program: This program will allow for CRA Area incentives for
residential infill housing, and provide additional incentive for Iow- and middle-income
affordable housing construction within the CRA Area. Any number of incentives can be
used by the City to promote residential infill within the CRA Area, including waivers for
cedain permit and development review fees, or providing for an expedited development
review process for residential infill developments. Additionally, the CRA may choose to
utilize TIF funds to demolish abandoned and dilapidated structures to create
opportunities for infill Within the CRA Area.
In addition to the CRA programs recommended above, several policy recommendations
have been discussed throughout this Plan. These policy recommendations include:
· Zoning and Land Use changes, where applicable; and
· Enforcement and modifications to existing architectural design guidelines.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 28 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
K. Neighborhood Impact and Affordable Housing Element
Community Housing Demographics
The portion of the CRA located east of U.S.-1 is located within U.S. Census Tract
508.01, Block Group 1. This Census Block Group extends from Fellsmere Boulevard
north to include Rosetand, with U.S.-1 forming a western boundary. According to 2000
Census data, there are a total of 402 housing units in this Block Group, 337 (84%) of
which are occupied. Nearly 74% (249) of the occupied housing units are owner-
occupied, and 26% (88) are renter-occupied.
Block Group l, U.S. Census Tract 508.0~
No housing units in the area lack plumping or kitchen facilities, although 28 units report
lacking landline telephone service. The median home value was $110,300 in year 2000,
median household income was $25,720, and average household size was reported as
1.84 persons per unit. The comparatively Iow median household income is a result of a
large population of retired persons in the area; 205 (53%) households reported no
income.
Affordable and Replacement Housing
This Plan is not expected to significantly impact households in the Iow to moderate-
income range. No acquisition of housing units is proposed, and potential acquisition
needs of conceptual improvements (e.g. commercial/retail uses adjacent to Riverview
Sebastian, Florida 12-3-03
Page 29 of 49
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
park) cannot be addressed until a detailed design plan is completed for the project. The
CRA and City Council may wish to adopt a formal policy requiring future project designs
to avoid any residential property acquisition, or putting into a place a formal policy to
address potential acquisition needs.
Traffic Circulation
No alternations to the arterial traffic circulation pattern within the CRA are recommended
within this Plan. Recommended transportation improvements within the CRA - in
Riverview Park and in the Sebastian Boulevard Tdangle Area - are proposed to create
greater community connectivity, and are limited to local collector roadways.
Environmental Quality
This Plan should have a positive impact on environmental quality in the residential
neighborhoods within the CRA through streetscape improvements, the installation of
future bicycle and pedestrian improvements, and future infrastructure improvements if
deemed necessary.
Ava#ability of Community Facilities and Services
Improvements have been suggested in this Plan that will enhance the availability of
facilities and services within the CRA. Provisions for additional public parking, local
traffic circulation improvements, and enhancement of existing community facilities (e.g.
parks) will provide a higher level of service to the residential community.
Effect on School Population
Development of the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area as a mixed-use community will
likely create additional demand on schools in the area. The following is a list of schools
serving the City of Sebastian, their current enrollment, and total student capacity.
Seba~ian, FIodda
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Public Schools Serving the City of Sebastian
2003
School Name Address Enrollment Capacity*
Pelican Island Elementary
Sebastian Elementary
Liberty Magnet School
Sebastian River Middle School
Sebastian High School
1355 Schumann Drive 656 students 862 students
400 CR 512 592 students 8;'8 students
8955 851~ Sb'eet 506 students 674 students
9400 OR 512 1,250 students 1,601 students
9001 90th Avenue 1,764 students 2,025 students
Source: Indian River County School District, 2003
* Includes permanent capacity and portable classroom space,
As indicated in the table above, Sebastian's schools have considerable additional
student capacity as of 2003. Concurrency requirements for new developments and
continued coordination with the school board will ensure adequate student capacity to
serve the CRA.
Other Matters Affecting the Physical and Social Quafity of the Neighborhood
This Plan proposes improvements that will have a positive impact on the quality of life for
existing residences within the CRA through the provision of improved parkland,
landscaping, lighting improvements, and traffic circulation improvements. Over time,
these improvements will increase property values in the area, boost tourism, and provide
a stronger commercial base, while maintaining a viable sense of place for residents of
Sebastian.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 31 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
L. Land and Building Acquisition
The proposed CRA Area Plan may necessitate land acquisition and building demolition.
It is intended that private market land and building transactions be used to the maximum
extent possible in the implementation of this Ptan. Eminent domain will only be utilized
for the most critical redevelopment projects and when all concerted efforts to acquire key
properties and/or buildings through private market transactions have failed.
As design plans for proposed CRA Area projects are developed in the future, the CRA
will document specific building and/or land acquisition needs and attempt to acquire
necessary lands and/or buildings through public/private development partnerships or
private market purchases. As discussed above, eminent domain may be used in a
manner consistent with applicable State laws and regulations.
Chapter 163, Florida Statutes provides for the relocation of any homes and/or
businesses that may be impacted by redevelopment. The CRA and City intend to
approach future relocation issues proactively, and will work towards mutually beneficial
agreements with affected property owners to mitigate the impact of redevelopment
projects.
Additional consideration to land and building acquisition, including preliminary cost
estimates, is provided in Section IV of this Plan
Sebastian, Florida
Page 32 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
Conformance with Sebastian and Indian River County
Comprehensive Plans
Indian River County Land Use Plan
The proposed Plan has been developed in a manner consistent with the Indian River
County Comprehensive Plan. The Sebastian Community Redevelopment Master Plan
meets the intent of several important goals, objectives, and policies in the Indian River
County Comprehensive Plan as follows:
FLUE Policy 4.1
Land use districts shall be located in a manner which
concentrates urban uses, thereby discouraging urban sprawl.
FLUE Policy 4.2.
By January 2000, Indian River County shall identify and map
target areas for redevelopment and infill development.
FLUE Policy 4.3
For the areas targeted for redevelopment and infill
development... Indian River County shall...assess the potential
for future development, review infrastructure capabilities and
needs, and develop special overlay or use districts and
regulations, if warranted.
FLUE Policy 4.4
Indian River County shall work with property owners,
developers, and the public to develop and implement a plan to
promote development of the areas targeted for redevelopment
and infiil development...
FLUE Objective 5
Diversity of Development. Indian River County will have a
diverse mix of land uses, development patterns, housing
densities, and housing types. By 2010, thirty percent of the
County's housing units will be in multiple-family or traditional
neighborhood design projects.
FLUE Objective 8
Protection of Historic Resources. Through 2005, at least
95% of unincorporated Indian River County's historic
properties...will continue to be preserved in fair, good, or
excellent condition.
FLUE Objective 9
Promote Aesthetic Development. Through the
implementation of land development regulations, Indian River
County will have aesthetically pleasing buildings, signs,
landscaping, parking areas, and roads.
Sebastian, Florida
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CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
FLUE Objective 11
Blighted Areas. Indian River County witl...(take) action to
encourage redevelopment in at least three blighted areas.
FLUE Objective 18
Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) Communities.
Ten percent of new residential development (dwelling units)
occurring in unincorporated Indian River County will be located
in Traditional Neighborhood Design projects.
These objectives and policies from the Indian River County Comprehensive Plan support
the preparation and implementation of Community Redevelopment Master Plans such
as that proposed for the City of Sebastian CRA. The Indian River County
Comprehensive Plan also favors the use of innovative planning techniques such as
mixed-use and traditional neighborhood development to eliminate incompatible uses,
promote economic development, increase affordable housing, and encourage infill and
redevelopment. The proposed City of Sebastian CRA Area is in conformance with, and
furthers, a number of these objectives and policies adopted in the Indian River County
Comprehensive Plan. In addition, no inconsistencies with the County's Land Use Plan
were found in this review.
Sebastian Comprehensive Plan
The Sebastian Community Redevelopment Plan furthers several important goals,
objectives, and policies in the Future Land Use Element (FLUE) of the Comprehensive
Plan as follows:
FLUE Policy 1-1.2.4
Prepare a Redevelopment plan for Enhancing the Identity,
Design, and Vitality of the City's Riverfront Corridor. The
Riverfront corridor shatl be the subject of periodic special
planning and management studies as determined by the City
Council, which shall be coordinated closely with the residents,
Chamber of Commerce and other interest groups concerned
with promoting improvements along this waterfront corridor...
FLUE Objective 1-1.5
Promote Community Appearance, Natural Amenities and
Urban Design Principles. The appearance of major
transportation corridors serving as gateways to the City, as
well as major activity centers such as the Downtown, the
Indian River and St. Sebastian River shoreline, public parks
and other public grounds and institutions shall be managed
and enhanced through application of the site plan review
process.
FLUE Policy 1-1.5.1
Reinforce and Enhance. the City's Community
Appearance. Major attributes shall be preserved through
application of design review standards and management of
Sebastian, Florida
Page 34 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Proposed Redevelopment Plan
signs, landscaping, open space, tree protection, and other
urban design amenities...
FLUE Objective 1-3.3
Encourage Redevelopment and Renewal. The portion of
the City along the indian River has a unique history, style and
look which the City seeks to preserve. By January, 1998, the
City of Sebastian shall adopt amended land development
regulations for the Riverfrent area, including performance
standards which ensure that land development activities,
resource conservation and infrastructure issues are managed
in a manner that will consider the needs of the citizens of
Sebastian...
FLUE Policy 1-3.3.4
Waterfront Theme. The overall theme of the Riverfront
District is an "Old Florida Fishing Village." All City facilities and
projects shall complement that theme in term of design...
FLUE Policy 1-3.3.6
Preservation of Existing Assets. The protection, restoration,
and enhancement of existing assets, including historical
structures, is important in implementing the "Old Florida
Fishing Village" theme. The City shall adopt.., procedures and
ordinances to protect, encourage restoration and to provide for
enhancement of existing assets in the Riverfront District
through the land development code...
FLUE Policy 1-3.3.7
Reinforce and Enhance Appearance of City Gateways
along U.S.-'I and CR 512. The City, together with the pdvate
sector, shall consider introducing landscaping and urban
design amenities along gateways to the City, particularly the
U.S.-1 and CR 512 corridors...
In addition to the above, a number of related objectives and policies throughout the
Comprehensive Plan support the design recommendations presented in this Plan,
including policies related to historic preservation, bicycle, pedestrian and vehicular
circulation, recreation, and housing, among others.
These selected objectives and policies from the adopted Sebastian Comprehensive Plan
all emphasize the need for the City to redevelop older areas on a priority basis. The
Redevelopment plan can be accomplished by continuing to use innovative planning
techniques such as mixed-uses, and enhance the land use plan, aesthetic character,
employment opportunities, public safety, affordable housing, and tax base of such areas.
The proposed Sebastian Community Redevelopment Plan is in conformance with, and
furthers, a number of these objectives and policies adopted in the City's Comprehensive
plan. In addition, no inconsistencies with the Sebastian Comprehensive Plan were
found in this review.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 35 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
IV. FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY
A significant benefit of any Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is the ability to
manage future incremental ad valorem tax revenues within the CRA Area from both
County and City sources. Following the first year of the CRA (base year), 95% of ad
valorem taxes collected annually on the incremental growth in property values since the
base year are returned to the CRA by eligible authorities including, but not limited to,
Indian River County and the City of Sebastian for use in implementing the approved
Community Redevelopment Master Plan, This increment, which has been collected
since 2000, will be supplemented in 2004 to include the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle
Area.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenues can be combined with other funding sources
such as grants to help finance initial projects prioritized by the Redevelopment Plan.
After three to four years of positive tax base growth - which the City has already
experienced -- the incremental tax revenues of the CRA Area should also be "bondable".
This enables the Agency to receive a large up-front infusion of funds to implement public
and public/private projects designed to "grow" the tax base and repay the bonds with
future tax revenues.
This section will use past TIF revenues and annual property value growth trends to
provide estimated projections of incremental tax base growth in the Sebastian CRA and
resulting tax revenues that may be received by the Agency. Other potential revenue
sources will also be discussed to complete the ten-year CRA revenue picture.
Fulfilling the vision of the Sebastian Community Redevelopment Plan is contingent upon
the ability to obtain funds to finance the public improvements and revitalization program.
A combination of potential funding mechanisms has been identified to realize the vision
of the plan.
Redevelopment Trust Fund: Subsequent to the approval of the original Redevelopment
Plan, the Sebastian City Council established and approved the fund by ordinance in
order to allocate future tax increments to the fund. This fund will be supplemented in
2004 by the addition of the Sebastian Boulevard Tdangle Area to the CRA.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 36 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
A. Tax Increment Revenues
The tables below show the annual taXable and assessed value for the Sebastian CRA
Area over the past five years, as well as for the Sebastian Boulevard Triangle Area.
Sebastian CRA -- Tax Increment Financing Revenue Projections
Taxable Value Growth, 1998.2003
Sebastian Boulevard CRA Expansion Area
Taxable Value Growth, 1998-2003
Year Indian River Co. Annual
Taxable Value % Growth
2000 $4,978,630 --
2001 $5,433,040 9.13%
2092 $5,929,680 9~14%
2003* $6,4~3,351 9.00%
Source: Indian River County, City of SebastJan, 2003.
Projected (data not available as of September 15, 2003).
' As indicated in the tables above, the CRA grew more than 27% between 2000 and 2001.
This is likely due to new development within the CRA. Taxable value grew only 1% the
following year before leveling off at 12.5% growth rate. Growth within the Sebastian
Boulevard Triangle Area has been more predictable, with a 9% annual growth rate
between 2000 and 2003 (estimated).
Sebastian, Florida
Page 37 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
In order to project future tax increment revenues that may be available to the CRA Area,
an overall tax base growth rate will be assumed based primarily on historical growth. A
conservative growth rate of 10% is assumed for the existing CRA, which was originally
adopted in 1995. A growth rate of 9% is maintained for the Sebastian Boulevard
Triangle Area, maintaining the annual growth rate over the past several years.
The table below presents the projected annual incremental growth in CRA Area tax base
as well as estimated City and County revenues available to the CRA Area through year
2013. The projected increment va~ue is actual for years 2000 through 2002, estimated
for 2003, and projected for years 2004 through 2013, including the Sebastian Boulevard
Triangle Area beginning in 2004.
Sebastian CRA Revenue Projections
Year Projected Increment County Tax City Tax Total Tax
Value"* Revenues*** Revenues**** Revenues
2000 $10,875,050 $42,373 $51,656 $94,029
2001 $23,303,870 $89,664 $101,625 $191,289
2002 $23,884,320 $87,877 $104,157 $192,033
2003 $31,214,450 $114,846 $t 36,122 $250,968
2004* $38,413,583.59 $141,333 $167,517 $308,850
2005 $46,326,813.52 $170,448 $202;026 $372;474
2006 $55,025,025.90 $202,451 $239,958 $442,409
2007 $64,586,148.32 $237,629 $281,652 $519,281
2008 $75,095,849.78 $276,297 $327,484 $603,781
2009 $86,648,310.19 $318;801 $377,863 $696,664
2010 $99,347,066.44 $365,523 $433,241 $798,764
201t $113,305,942.60 $416,681 $494,114 $910,995
2012 $128,650,072.65 $473,336 $561,028 $1,034,364
2013 $145;517,024~93 $535~394 $634;582 $1 ~ 169;977
Source: h?dian River County, CiO/of Sebastiar ller Planning Group, 2003.
Note: 2000-2003 data are actual/estimated taxable values and revenues.
Assumes CRA boundaries amended to include Sebastian Boulevard Expansion Area and 2003 millage rates
** 1994 CRA Base Year taxable value = $34.96 million. Incremental taxable values shown based on
taxable value of 9% for Sebastian Boulevard Expansion Area, and 10% for remaining CRA.
*** Revenues reduced by 5%. Estimates based on County millage of 3.8729.
.... Revenues reduced by 5%. Estimates based on City millage of 4.5904.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 38 of 49
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CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
B. Capital Improvements Program
Estimated capital improvements costs for CRA projects are depicted in the following
table. It should be noted that the cost figures are for long-range planning and may vary
considerably based on specific project details at time of construction.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 39 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenues for the CRA are projected to be approximately
$6.9 million over the next ten years. The projects included herein are generally feasible,
assuming bonding, public-private partnerships, grants, and other funding sources
available to the CRA ara utilized in addition to Tax Increment Financing funds.
Please note that the capital improvements cost estimates provided above are for a ten-
year time period, and are only initial projects for consideration. Generation of additional
projects through regular Plan updates will ensure success of the CRA through its 30-
year period.
C. Project Financing
CRA Tax Increment Revenues: The CRA will continue to accumulate the tax increment
generated within the district, which may be used to secure bonds for public
improvements or be expended directly on CRA projects. The tax increment is that
portion of tax revenue that has increased from the year the CRA was established and
the year the bonds are issued. All improvements funded through bonds must be located
within the CRA Area district.
State of Florida: The State of Florida has various funding sources for improvements in
the CRA Area, including:
Sebastian, Florida
Page 40 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Financial Feasibility
Historic preservation matching grants are available for building restoration and
educational projects (e.g. walking/driving tours, brochures). These funds may
help increase tourism in the area, create community awareness of the National
Register of Historic Places District, and provide a mechanism by which to restore
designated historic structures to their original appearance.
The Secretary of State maintains a grant program for local parks and recreation
improvements, which may be utilized in the CRA Area for improvements to the
park areas and greenway connections.
· Urban and community forestry grants for special landscape improvements, which
may include improvements within the CRA Area.
Florida Inland Navigation Distdct provides funds for waterway improvements..
These funds may be used in the CRA Area to create and expand marina
facilities, to create additional recreational opportunities focusing on the river, and
to create or improve docking facilities.
City of Sebastian: City funding sources include:
· Community Development Block Grant funds, which may be utilized for
infrastructure improvements.
· Special assessments may be utilized to fund improvements through taxes levied
on benefiting properties in the CRA Area.
· General fund reserves may be used on a loan basis to initially fund the CRA.
· City water and sewer funds may be allocated for water and sewer improvements
in the CRA Area.
· City bond issues can be utilized for capital improvements in the CRA Area,
including streetscaping, parking, and related improvements.
· Gas tax funds may be used for transportation improvements.
Non-Profit Corporation: The establishment of a tax-exempt organization may provide
funds for district improvements, such as buy-a-brick or adopt-a-tree programs for
streetscape improvements.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 41 of 49
CRA Master Plan Operational Procedures
V. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
A. CRA Term
The term of the Sebastian Community Redevelopment Master Plan will be thirty years
from the date of Plan adoption, which is expected to occur in
December 2003. This length of operational term is absolutely necessary to provide the
best opportunity for the CRA to successfully complete the redevelopment process within
the redevelopment area and ensure the greatest potential property value enhancement
resulting from initial public-sponsored projects and programs. This does not mean the
entire CRA Area will be redeveloped within that timeframe, but rather that the major
principles and associated improvements envisioned in the Redevelopment Plan, as
amended and updated in the future, will be fully implemented and private development
will be well on the way toward helping the City of Sebastian attain its vision for the
restoration of its historical downtown.
Although the initial capital improvements process is estimated over a ten-year period,
the Plan will be updated periodically over the thirty-year CRA term to reflect changed
financial and development conditions in Sebastian. In addition, the CRA may engage in
bond financing after three to five years of operation in order to provide an up-front
infusion of dollars for public improvements with repayment from enhanced tax increment
proceeds over an extended pedod, typically twenty to twenty-five years. Obviously,
bond underwriters will require that the term of the CRA extend through and beyond the
final payoff of any bonds they sponsor. It is also not unusual for successful CRAs to
implement multiple bond issues over the thirty-year redevelopment period, and second
and third issues would also need long-term payback periods to keep interest rates within
reason for the Agency.
Another areas of Plan implementation where the thirty-year term is crucial include the
development of public/private partnerships. CRAs have been appropriately referred to
as "developers in the public interest", and this aspect of the CRA role is very important to
realize the tax base enhancements expected from publicly funded improvements.
Expedited approval of development consistent with the Redevelopment plan may be the
difference between a high or Iow growth of tax base in the redevelopment area. In
addition, successful CRAs often enter into long-term agreements with developers to
address issues such as parking; these issues typically extend far into the future.
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 42 of 49
CRA Master Plan Operational Procedures
B. Annual Reporting
The Sebastian CRA will prepare an annual budget for consideration and approval prior
to October 1st of the fiscal year in which the budget will be implemented. In addition, an
annual report will also be prepared, which will outline progress made toward achieving
Plan goals, objectives and policies. This report will also include a comparison of current-
year tax base in contrast to the base year value. In addition, financial statements will be
prepared according to Florida Statutes.
C. Plan Update and Amendments
The Sebastian Community Redevelopment Master Plan will be updated and revised to
reflect changing conditions every three to five yearn. The standard updating process will
involve the following steps:
1. Updated data and analysis;
2. Revised capital improvements program and other redevelopment strategy
recommendations;
3. Review by Local Planning Agency; and
4. Consideration by CRA Board and City Council.
Sebastian, Florida
Page 43 of 49
12-3-03
CRA Master Plan Appendix
Appendix A
City of Sebastian CRA Expansion
Finding of Necessity
Sebastian, Florida
Page 44 of 49
12-3-03
City of
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc, .o~ o~ ],mc.'~ ~u~,.~
City of Sebastian
DRAFT
Finding of Necessity for
Redevelopment
Prepared by:
II.ER PLANNINO eaouP
~n association with Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc.
November, 2002
Table of Contents
EXecutive Summary ................... ; ................................................................. iii
II.
III.
Introduction ......................................................................................... 1
CRA Criteria- State Requirements ................................................. 4
Methodology .................................... ~ ................................................... 7
Proposed Community Redevelopment Area .................................... 8
A. Area Characteristics ..................................................................................... 8
B. Land Use ...................................................................................................... 8
Need for Redevelopment .................................................................. 15
A. Deteriorating Structures ............................................................................. i6
B. Deteriorating of Site or Other Improvements ............................................ 22
1. Vacancy .......................................................................................... 22
2. Junk: Trash and Debris .................................................................. 22
3. Faulty Lot Layout/Diversity of Ownership ........................ ............ 23
Code Enforcement Violations .................................................................... 25
Inadequate Transportation Facilities .......................................................... 26
1. Defective or Inadequate Street Layout .......................................... 26
Tax Base Growth ....................................................................................... 27
Eo
VI. Conclusions ........................................................................................ 28
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida i
List of Figures
Figure 1:
Figure 2:
Figure 3:
Figure 4:
Figure 5:
Figure 6:
Regional' Location Map ......................................................................... 2
Existing CRA and Proposed Expansion Area .................................. 3
Future Land Use Map ............................................................................ 9
Zoning Map ............................................................................................ l0
Existing Land Use Map ....................................................................... 11
Deteriorating Conditions Map ........................................................... 14
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida ii
Executive Summary
The City of Sebastian created a Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for its
waterfront/U.S. 1 area in 1995. Recently, the City has identified a small redevelopment
expansion area (see Figure 2) to determine if sufficient deteriorated conditions exist in
the area to warrant the enlargement of the current Community Redevelopment Area
(CRA). The purpose of a CRA is to bolster the economy in a qualified area which has
been selected based on its need for redevelopment and its ability to meet State criteria for
designation of CRAs. There are tl~ree primary benefits of a CRA in Sebastian:
Tax increment financing, which diverts future property tax revenues fi:om
Indian River County and the City to a trust fund for redevelopment
projects;
Increased eligibility for federal and state grants that can be used for
infrastructure improvements, business development and property
acquisition; and
A master planning approach and implementation strategy for the area.
The City is pursuing the possible expansion of the existing CRA to ensure that the older
commercial and industrial areas of the City do not experience further decline and to
encourage reinvestment in these areas. The expansion area is also integrally related to
the existing CRA, serving as the "gateway, to the existing CRA.
The proposed CRA expansion area generally includes the area between the CR 512
eastbound and westbound roadway split, terminating at the eastern boundary of Old Dixie
Highway's right-of-way. The proposed expansion area also includes a large tract of land
south of Woodmere Road, properties located between Harrison (2ha) Street and CR 512
eastbound, and other property south of(and fi:onting on) CR 512 eastbound. The total
size of the proposed CRA expansion area is approximately 104 acres.
This report finds that over 50 percent of the proposed CRA area is exhibiting deteriorated
conditions such as damaged structures and declining site conditions. In addition, nearly
one-quarter of the proposed area is vacant land, and approximately .43 percent of all
existing structures in the area are nonconforming residential uses.
The redevelopment study area meets the criteria set forth by the State of Florida for the
creation of a CRA. If the City adopts these findings, the next step of the process is to
incorporate this new area into an updated redevelopment master plan for the entire
Sebastian CRA.
Finding of ~Vecessity for Redevelopment- City of Sebastian, Florida
I. Introduction
The City of Sebastian, located in Indian River County, was incorporated in 1925. Figure
1 provides a regional perspective of the City, showing Indian River County and its
municipalities. Sebastian is located along the Indian River Lagoon between the cities of
Melbourne and Vero Beach, and had a population of 16,181 in 2000.
The City is transected by US Highway One and CR 512, and has nearby access to both
Interstate 95 and the Florida Turnpike. In addition, the City has a municipal airport just
east of CR 505 (Roseland Road).
The City of Sebastian originally formed a CRA in 1995 through Ordinance No. 95-05.
This existing CRA is generally linear in geographic shape, and is centered around US 1
and downtown Sebastian. To continue to encourage redevelopment and growth in the
downtown and its surrounding areas, the City is examining the feasibility of expanding
the CRA to include 103.74 acres of land generally located contiguous to and southwest of
the existing CRA boundary.
The purpose of a CRA is to bolster the economy in a qualified area that has been selected
based on its need for redevelopment and its ability to meet state statutory criteria for slum
and/or blight. There are three primary benefits of a CRA. First, CRAs allow for the
utilization of tax increment financing (TIF). To employ TIF, the latest year's taxable
assessment is used as the base or starting point. From that year forward, for a period of up
to 30 years, any increase in taxable property assessment (known as an increment) is
collected and placed into a trust fund for the redevelopment area and then reinvested in
that area according to an approved master plan. The increment comes from both
municipal and county propea~ tax revenues.
In addition to hflF, the CRA increases the City's eligibility for a variety of state and
federal' grants. The grants available can be used for development of affordable housing,
business development programs, small business loans and property acquisition. The end
result is an increase of the money available for public Lnvestment in the specified area
over what would have been available prior to the establishment of the CRA. Lastly, the
redevelopment area benefits due to the application of a master planning approach which
creates a vision for the area and specifies an implementation program to accomplish that
vision.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 1
)
CALAMi
VIN~
Figure 1
Prqject Location Map
City of Sebastian CRA Expansion
Key
Existing CRA BoundaG'
Proposed CRA Expansion Bountiary
Figure 2
Existing and Proposed CRA Expansion Area
City of Sebastian CRA Expansion
H. CRA Criteria- State Requirements
Chapter 163 allows municipalities to designate a Commultity. Redevelopment Area
(CRA) as a special district where Future County and City property tax increment
revenues can be used to find infrastmctnre improvement and development, as well as new
redevelopment initiatives. The initial step in the process of designating a CRA is the
"finding of necessity for redevelopment." This finding is made pursuant to a City
resolution that one or more slum or blighted areas, or areas exhibiting a shortage of
affordable housing, exist in the municipality; and that the rehabilitation, conservation, or
redevelopment of these areas are necessary in the interest of the public health, safety,
morals, or welfare of the residents of the City [F.S. 163.355]. Subsequent to making this
legislative finding, the City can then establish a Community Redevelopment Agency
(CRA) and prepare .a Community Redevelopment Plan for the designated Area~ Finally,
the City CRA can begin accumulating tax increment finding (TIF) revenues and
implementing the adopted CRA Plan. It is important to note that a CRA does not increase
the millage rate on properties located within its boundaries.
Qualification for designation as a CRA requires that the identified geographic area meet
one or more of the criteria set forth in Chapter 163, Part llI, Florida Statutes. These
criteria are listed below:
"Slum area" means an area having physical or economic conditions conducive to
disease, infant mortality; juvenile delinquency, poverty or crime because there is a
predominance of buildings or improvements, whether residential or
nonresidential, which are impaired by reason of dilapidation, deterioration, age, or
obsolescence, and exhibiting one or more of the following factors:
ao
Inadequate provision for ventilation, light, air, sanitation, or open
spaces;
High density of population, compared to the population density of
adjacent areas within the county or mllnicipality; and
overcrowding, as indicated by government-maintained statistics or
other studies and the requirements of the Florida Building Code; or
The existence of conditions that endanger life or property by fire or
other causes [F.S. 163.340(7)].
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 4
"Blighted area" means an area /n which there are a substantial number of
deteriorated, or deteriorating structures, in which conditions, as indicated by
government-maintained statistics or other studies, are leading to economic distress
or endanger life property, and in which two or more of the following factors are
present:
)
)
.1
Co
ho
Predominance of defective or inadequate street layout, parking
facilities, roadways, bridges, or public transportation facilities;
Aggregate assessed values of real property in the area for ad
valorem tax purposes have failed to show any appreciable increase
over the 5 years prior to the finding of such conditions;
Faulty lot layout in relation to size, adequacy, accessibility, or
usefulness;
Unsanitary or unsafe conditions;
Deterioration of site or other improvements;
Inadequate and outdated building density patterns;
Falling lease rates per square foot of office, commercial, or
industrial space compared to the remainder of the county or
municipality;
Tax or special assessment delinquency exceeding the fair value of
the land;
Residential and commercial vacancy rates higher in the area than
in the remainder of the county or municipality.
Incidence of crime in the area higher than in the remainder of the
county or municipality;
Fire and emergency medical service calls to the area
proportionately higher than in the remainder of the county or
municipality;
A greater number of violations of the Florida Building Code in the
area than the number of violations recorded in the remainder of the
county or municipality;
Diversity of ownership or defective or unusual conditions of title
which prevent the free alienability of land within the deteriorated
or hazardous area; or
Governmentally owned property with adverse environmental
conditions caused by a public or private entity.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 5
However, the term "blighted area" also means any area in which at least one of
the factors identified in paragraphs (a) through (n) are present and all taxing
authorities subject to s. 163.387(2)(a) agree, either by interlocal agreement or
agreements with the agency or by resolution, that the area is blighted [F.S.
163.340(8)].
There is a shortage of housing affordable to residents of low or moderate income,
including the elderly. [F.S. 163.355(1)]
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of ~ebastian, Florida 6
IH. Methodology
A number of information sources and analytical techniques were used in the
determination of the need for redevelopment. Field surveys were conducted between
October and November 2002 to provide accurate assessments of physical conditions in
and around the proposed CRA Area. Initial fieldwork focused on the appropriate
boundary of the expansion area. Field data gathered included visual surveys of conditions
of infrastructure, vacant lots, debris piles, building structures and facades, roads and
traffic, parking, property maintenance, lighting, and other potential blighting influences.
Land use conflicts were also noted.
City and County records and analyses by technical staff were utilized to provide
important background information on code enforcement trends, infrastructure
deficiencies, property tax values and trends, land subdivision and ownership,
programmed public improvements, and other factors. The existing Sebastian Community
Kedevelopment Plan, completed in 1995, was also utilized as a basis of information for
this report.
The information collected was assessed against the criteria presented previously in this
report to determine the existence of slum and/or blighting conditions, the overall need for
redevelopment, and to finalize the boundary for the proposed CRA expansion area.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 7
IV. Proposed Community Redevelopment Area
A. Area Characteristics
Based on field surveys, the recommended boundaries for Sebastian's proposed CRA
expansion area are shown in Figure 2. The area being considered for expansion of the
existing redevelopment area (hereafter referred to as "the proposed expansion area")
generally includes the area between the CR 512 eastbound and westbound roadway split,
terminating at the eastern boundary of Old Dixie Highway's fight-of-way. The proposed
expansion area also includes a large tract of land south of Woodmere road, properties
located between Harrison (2nd) Street and CR 512 eastbound, and other property south of
(and fronting on) CR 512 eastbound.
The gross area of the proposed CRA expansion area is 103.74 acres, including road
rights-of-way. Exehding road right-of-way, the area for proposed expansion is
approximately 80 acres. Approximately 22.4 percent (23.21 acres) of the gross area is
undeveloped. The remaining land area is intended to support commercial (31.50 acres),
industrial (56.51 acres), and institutional (15.73 acres) uses.
B. Land Use
This section provides an overview of the future land use designations, zoning districts
and existing land uses within the proposed CRA area. This analysis is based on Figures 3
through 6 on the following pages and the tables presented throughout the section. The
discussion begins with future land use, as this is the controlling factor in land
development.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment - City of Sebast~'an, Florida 8
Key
Density Multi Family
)
)
Figure 3
Future Land Use
City of Sebastian CRA Expansion
KEY
III
Figure 4
Zoning Map
City of Sebasdan CRA Expansion
:
Figure 5
Existing Land Use
City of Sebastian CRA l~xpansion
Key
~ .Residential
] Institutional
Commercial 512
Commercial
Industrial
~:~ Yacent
Table 1 shows a breakdown of the future land use and zoning designations within the
proposed CRA expansion area, while Figure 3 graphically depicts these designations.
Future land use and zoning designations are identical within the proposed CRA
expansion area.
Table 1. Future Land Use/Zoning
Percent of
Future Land Use Designation Acres Proposed
CRA Area
Commercial-512 Dislrict (C-512) 6.24 6.0%
Public Service District (PS) 15.73 15.2%
Industrial District (IN) 56.51 54.5%
Commercial General District (CG) 25.26 24.3%
Source: City of Sebastian Future Land Use/Zoning Maps
As indicated in Table 1 above, the majority (54.5 percent) of the property within the
proposed CRA expansion area is designated for industrial use. Figure 3 shows that these
industrial designated lands are concentrated in the eastern and northeastern portions of
the proposed expansion area. Land designated for general commercial development is the
second most common designation, with 24.3 pement of the proposed CRA expansion
area. Approximately 15.2 percent of the area is designated for institutional development
(PS District). Finally, 6.24 acres are designated for commercial development along CR
512.
Table 2 summarizes the existing land uses, which are shown on Figure 5, ha the proposed
CRA area.
Table 2. Existing Land Use
Percent of
ExistIng Use Acres Proposed
CRA Area
Institutional 12.07 11.6%
Industrial 7.24 7.0%
Commercial 10.1 9.7%
Residential 27.25 26.3%
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 12
Road Right-of-Way
Vacant
Source: Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc.
23.87 23.0%
23.21 22.4%
The character of the existing land use in the proposed CRA expansion area is
predominantly residential. Table 2 indicates that 23.0 percent of the area is made up of
road right-of-way, and an additional 22.4 percent of the area is undeveloped land.
Institutional land uses are the next most prevalent uses, representing 11.6 percent (12.07
acres) of the proposed CRA expansion area. The majority of the area is zoned
commercial and industrial; however, these two uses make up the smallest share of
existing land uses in the area, accounting for 9.7 percent and 7.0 percent of the area,
respectively. Industrial land uses in the area include storage facilities and auto-oriented
businesses such as auto repair and parts.
There are a substantial number of instances ofnoncomforming uses in the proposed CRA
expansion area: Of 40 total structures surveyed in the area, 17 (4215 percent) represent
residential uses, which are nonconforming uses in the area according to future land use
and zoning designations. Of the 17 nonconforming residential uses, 16 are located in the
industrial land use zone, and the remaining residential use lies within a commercial laud
use zone. This information is shown in more detail in Table 3 of this study.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 13
V. Need for Redevelopment
Based on field surveys and information provided by the City, Figure 6 presents a
composite analysis of the deteriorating conditions within the proposed CRA expansion
area. More specifically, Figure 6 delineates the areas with deteriorated building
conditions, deteriorated lot conditions, nonconforming uses, and inadequate street layout,
and deteriorated site improvements, all of which are prerequisites for establishing (and
expanding) a CRA.
The gross acreage of the proposed CRA expansion area, including mad rights-of-way, is
approximately 103.74 acres. Using this gross acreage, the conditions illustrated on Figure
7 account for' the following proportions of the study area:
· Deteriorating Structures --
· Deteriorating Prope~y Conditions --
· Both Deteriorating Structures/Prop. Conditions --
· Inadequate Roadways --
4.6 acres (4.4%)
25.36 acres (24.5%)
24.05 acres (23.2%)
0.5 acres (0.5%)
When combhaed and adjusted for overlapping conditions, these six conditions represent
54.51 acres, or 52.5 percent of the gross proposed CRA expansion area. Excluding road
right-of-ways, the percentage increases to nearly 70 percent of the land area in the
proposed CRA expansion area.
The following sections of this report will discuss each of these conditions, including other
zoning deficiencies and blighting influences present in the proposed CRA expansion area~
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebasaan, Florida 15
A. Deteriorating Structures
Table 3, below, is a visual inventory of building and lot conditions wifhin the proposed
CRA expansion area. The location of each building and lot surveyed is shown in Figure
6, and cross-referenced by Map ID number on Table 3. below. Building and lot
conditions have been rated according to the following scale:
Building Conditions
Lot Conditions
1 - Standard
2 - Slightly Deteriorated
3 - Deteriorated
4 -- Dilapidated
1 - Good Condition
2 - Standard: tall grass, etc.
3 - Poor: overgrown, minor debris
4 - Very poor: Dumping, unmaintained, etc.
Table 3 - Building and Lot'Conditions Survey
Map General Building Lot
ID # Address Use Condition Condition Non-Conforming Use?
1 High Residential 1 1 Yes; single family home
Street SF in Industrial Land Use
2 High Residential 3 1 Yes; single family home
Street SF in Industrial Land Use
3 High Kesidential 1 2 Yes; single family home
Street SF in Industrial Land Use
4 High Residential 3 2 Yes; single family home
Street SF in Industrial Land Use
5 High Residential - 4 3 Yes; single family home
Street SF in Industrial Land Use
6 High Renlal 1 1 No
Street Business
7 High Vacant N/A 4 No
Street
8 High Vacant N/A 3 No
Street
10 Louisiana .Residential - 2 1 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use
11 Louisiana Residential - 2 1 Yes; single farhily home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use.
12 Louisiana Residential - 2 1 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 16
13 Louisiana Residential - 2 1 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Induslrial Land Use
14 Louisiana VFW 1 1 No
Ave
15 Louisiana American I 1 No
Ave Legion
16 Louisiana Residential 2 1 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use
17 Louisiana Residential 1 1 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use
18 Louisiana Residential 3 2 Yes; single family home
Ave SF in Industrial Land Use
19 Louisiana Vacant N/A 3 No
Ave
20 First Residential 2 2 Yes; single family home~
[ (Taft) St SF in Industrial Land Use
21 First Residential 3 2 Yes; single family home
(Taft) St SF in Industrial Land Use
22 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
23 CR 512 Public Works I 1 No
24 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
25 CR 512 Residential 4 3 Yes; single family home
SF in Commercial Land Use
26 CR 512 Commercial & 1 1 No
Office
Building
27 CR 512 Office 1 1 No
Building
28 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
29 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
30 CR 512 Carpet Store 1 1 No
31 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
32 CR 512 "Fountain 1 1 No
Plaza" - Retail
33 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
34 CR 512 Storage 1 1 No
Facility
35 CR 512 Vacant N/A 3 No
36 Second Storage 1 2 No
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 17
(Harrison) Facility
Street
,37 Second Automotive 1 2 No
(Harrison) Body Shop
Street
38 Second Storage 1 3 No
(Hamson) Facility
Street
39 Second Storage 1 2 No
(Harrison) racihty
Street
40 CR 512 Restaurant 1 1 No
(Jerry's Sub &
Pub)
41 CR 512 Automotive 2 1 No
Repair
42 CR 512 Outside N/A 2 No
Storage Area -
Boats
43 CR 512 Service Center 1 1 No
44 High Storage 1 1 No
Street Facility
45 High Storage 2 3 'No
Street Facility.
46 Old Dixie Sheet Metal 3 2 No
Hwy Roofing
47 Old Dixie Automotive 1 1 No
Hwy Repair
(Transmission)
48 Old Dixie Automotive 2 1 No
Hwy Sales
49 Old Dixie Storage 1 1 No
Hwy Facility
50 Old Dixie Storage 2 1 No
Hwy Facility
51 Old Dixie Residential 3 4 Yes; single family home
Hwy SF in Industrial Land Use
Source: Iler Planning Group, 2002
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 18 '
As indicated above, 40 of the properties surveyed in the proposed CRA expansion area
currently have structures on them. Of the 40 structures surveyed, nearly half (47.5
percent - '19 structures) are "slightly deteriorated" to "dilapidated" in condition. In
addition, 49 percent of the lots witlfin the proposed CRA expansion are rated "standard"
to "very poor". Nearly 30 percent of the lots within the area are rated "poor" or "very
poor" in condition.
The following graphics depict deteriorated structures within the CRA expansion area:
Photograph 1 depicts a dilapidated
residential structure on the north
side of CR 512 eastbound west of
Louisiana Avenue. The structure is
a nonconforming use located within
a commercial zone, and appears to
be in significant disrepair. This
struetme is one of the first
properties seen entering the City of
Sebastian from the west on CR 512.
Photo. I - Dilapidated home on north side of CR 512 East
Photograph 2 depicts a mobile
home near the northern terminus of
High Slreet and Louisiana Avenue
at CR 512 westbound. This home
is typical to the majority of
nonconforming residential uses in
the proposed CRA expansion area.
Photo. 2 - Mobile homq at intersectton of High Street and Louisiana Avenue
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 19
Photograph 3 depicts an
industrial land use on the
north side of Harrison (2ha)
Street in the northeastern
area of the proposed
expansion area.
Photo. $ - Industrial use on north side of Harrison (2ha) Street
Photographs 4 through 7 show
an additional nonconforming
mobile homes generally
located between CR 512
eastbound and CR 512
westbound east of Louisiana
Avenue.
Photo. 4- Mobile home on the east eide of Loui~iana Avenue south of Ta~ Avenue
Photo. 5 - Northwest corner of Louisiana Avenu~ and Photo, 6- West side of High S~reet north of Tafl (1~) Street
Taft (l~) Street
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 20
t~hoto. 7- Mobile home on the west side of High Street south of Taft (1~t) ,gtreet
Photograph 8 depicts an outdoor storage area on the north side of Harrison (2n~) Street
just east o£Hewlett Drive.
Photo. 8 - Outdoor storage facility on north side of Harrison (2ha) Street
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 21
B. Deterioration of Site or Other Improvements
1. Vacancy
Another indication of depressed conditions in the proposed CRA area is the amount of
vacant undeveloped land. As mentioned in the previous section on existing land uses,
22.4 percent (23.21 acres) of the proposed CRA expansion area is comprised of vacant
land.
Vacant land is dispersed throughout the proposed CRA expansion area, with no
significant concentration occurring in any specific location. The existence of vacant land
is evidence of lack of investment throughout the area.
2. Junk, Trash and Debris
Accumulation of litter and debris is not a significant issue for the commercial and
portions of the proposed CRA expansion area. This may be due in part to the lack of
landscaping and vegetation in these areas in which ttash and debris may be thrown as
well as due to diligent code enfomement officers and prope~y owners. Irt the indus,'iai
areas, however, there is more of a problem with junk, trash and debris. Of the 38 code
enforcement cases in the proposed CRA expansion area between 1990 and 2000, 22
(57.9%) were for junk~ trash and debris.
The photograph to the right
is just one example of litter
in the proposed CRA area.
This photograph shows a
pile of discarded materials
adjacent to an indnslxial use
located on the northera side
of Harrison (2~a) Street at
Hewlett Drive.
Debris pile adjacent to industrial land use.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 22
The photograph below shows a vacant lot being used for storage of track trailers at the
southeast comer of Taft (1~t) Street and High Street. This not only demonstrates property
owner disinvestment in the proposed CRA expansion area, but also shows that much of
the land within the area is not being utilized for its highest and best use.
Truck trailer storage on vacant lot at southeast comer of Tafl (]st} ~treet and High Street
3. Faulty Lot Layout/Diversity of Ownership
Faulty lot layout due. to lot size is a significant problem within the proposed CRA
expansion area for industrial areas. The City's zoning code requires a minimum lot width
of 100 feet and a minimum lot area Of 15,000 square feet for industa'ial uses (City of
Sebastian Zoning Regulations, § 54-2-5.6). Lot sizes in the industrial-zoned areas of the
northeastern part of the proposed CRA expansion area typically range t~om 6,500 square
feet to 9,375 square feet, and appear to have been originally platted for residential uses.
Accordingly, diversity of ownership prevents the free alienability of land within the
proposed CRA expansion area~
Commercial development within the City's C-512 District calls for a minim~ma lot size of
20,000 square feet, and a minimum lot width of 125 feet. This commercial zoning exists
in the southwestern part of the proposed CRA expansion area south of CR 512 eastbound.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 23
Lot sizes in this area typically do not exceed 10,000 square feet, with a 40~foot average
lot width.
Accordingly, commercial and industrial development within current code is not feasible
(without significant parcel assembly) due to diversity of ownership and small lot sizes,
each of which prevent the free alienability of land within the proposed CRA expansion
Finding of Necess#y for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 24
C. Code Enforcement Violations
Approximately 38 Code violations have been issued since 1990 in the proposed CRA
expansion area for one or more of the following:
· Building maintenance;
· Property maintenance;
· Landscape maintenance; or
· Public nuisance (junk, trash, or debris, overgrown vegetation or
abandoned/untagged vehicles).
Table 4 displays the number and nature of violations issued between 1990 and 2000.
Table 4. Proposed CRA Area Code Enforcemen~ Cases by Violatio~
Type of Violation Number of Instances
Building maintenance 1
Property maintenance 11
Public nuisance 24
Prohibited signs i
Failure to obtain occupational license 1
As indicated in Table 4, violations for public nuisance (such as abandoned vehicles, junk,
trash or debris, or overgrown vegetation) are the most prevalent in the proposed CRA
expansion area, followed by property maintenance issues. Public nuisance cases represent
more than 63 percent of ail cases. This is an indicator of the blighted conditions that exist
within the proposed CRA area.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 25
D. Inadequate Transportation Facilities
1. Defective or Inadequate Street Layout
Figure 6 depicts an unpaved roadway that travels directly adjacent to and south of the
C-512 commercial district in the southwest area of the proposed CRA expansion. This
dirt road has numerous potholes and ruts, and becomes largely impassable in inclement
weather.
The road system south of CR 512 in the proposed CRA expansion area is inadequate and
unpaved in many instances. The system is insufficient to serve the land uses presently
adopted for the area.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 26
E. Tax Base Growth
Table 5 shows the total taxable value growth between 2000 and 2002 in the City of
Sebastian, Indian River County, and the proposed CRA expansion area.
Table 5 -- Tax Base Growth
2000 2002 Growth
CRA Expansion Area $4,978,630 $5,929,680 19.1%
City of Sebastian $508,508,759 $623,616,811 22.6%
Indian River County $6,995,948,262 $8,896,057,701 27.2%
Source: City of Sebastian, Indian River County
As shown in the table, the growth of the total taxable value of the proposed CRA
expansion area lagged by three percent between 2000 and 2002 in comparison with the
City of Sebastian. Moreover, the proposed CRA expansion area's total taxable value
growth lagged by more than eight percent behind Indian River County, indicating
blighting influences in the area and a need for redevelopment.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City Of Sebastian, Florida 27
VI. Conclusions
Based on the information presented in this report, the City of Sebastian's proposed CRA
expansion area meets the state requirements for a Community Redevelopment Agency.
The proposed CRA area meets the following criteria:
Over half of the properties in the proposed area exhibit deteriorating
building and site conditions. Tiffs clearly meets state requirements that
call for a "substantial numl?er of deteriorated, or deteriorating slructures"
within a proposed CRA (F.S. 163.340(8));
The "deterioration of site or other improvements" (F.S. 163.340(8)(e)) has
been demonstrated by the existence of 23.21 acres of vacant land within
the proposed CRA area, which accounts for 22.4 percent of the total
proposed expansion area. Additionally, deterioration of site has been
demonstrated through the accumulation of litter and debris in the area.
Between 1990 and 2000, nearly 60 percent of all code enfomement
citations in the proposed CRA expansion area involved the accumulation
of junk, trash, and debris. Finally, as stated above, nearly half of the
structures and lots within the CRA are deteriorating or deteriorated;
"Faulty lot layout" (F.S. ~163.340(2)(c)) exists in nearly all of the C-512
commercial and industrial zoned properties in the proposed CRA
expansion area due to small lot sizes that do not meet current zoning code
requirements;
A "diversity of ownership...prevent(ing) the free alienability of land"'
(F.S. 163.340(2)(m)) within the proposed CRA expansion area has been
demonstrated within the C-512 commercial and industrial zoned
properties, as new development in these .areas would require significant
assembly of parcels;
Several. instances of inadequate road layout occur throughout the proposed
CRA expansion area;
Land use conflicts occur where residential uses exist in commemial and
industrial zoned areas. Over 40 percent of the existing structures in the
proposed expansion area are nonconforming residential uses; and
The total taxable value of the expansion area lags behind the rest of the
City of Sebastian and Indian River County, indicating disinvestment in the
area and a need for redevelopment.
These findings and the other detailed conclusions contained herein clearly indicate a very
strong need for redevelopment in the Sebastian CRA expansion area.
Finding of Necessity for Redevelopment ~ City of Sebastian, Florida 28
CRA Master Plan Appendix
Appendix B
City of Sebastian
Resolution R-02-57
Sebastian, Florida
12-3-03
Page 45 of 49
A RESOLUTION OF ~ CITY OF SEBAS~, FLORIDA,
FINDING BI~GHT IN T~E ~ 512 TPJA.~GLE AREA AND
DF.,~G A NECF~S$ITy FOR REHABILrTATION AND
REI)EVELOi~MI~NT; PROVI~/.NG FOR EFFECTIV~ DATE.
WI~.REA8, the City of Sebastian commissioned the T~s~ Cout ~o~ Pl~i.g
Co~l ~ host a ~ o~ ~e ~ d~v~pm~ of~e ~~ 512 c~dor ~u~
City; ~
~, ~e Ci~ of8~ ~ ~e ~ue R~ (~e ~m~
~t~ PI~") ~ N~ 3, 2~0, ~ ~ it ~ ~ ~ ~ ~r ~ poli~s
z~ laws ~ d~o~ ~s~ ~or ~e co~dor; ~
~, d~ ~e ~ p~ c~e~ ~m ov~ ~ ~ga~ eft~ ~ ~
~d~ a '~ To~ ~t~'* c~t; ~
~ ~ ~S, ~, ~., h~ iz~ ~ ~dt~ of ~ec~ ~rr, wM~ is ~eby
~opt~ ~ ~ ~d~ of~ ~ of
NOW TI~REI~ORE, BE IT RF-~OLVED BY TI:r~ COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF 5EBAI~/AN~ ~ follows: '
Seefl.~. That the City haz de/~mnin~d the area looatod between the dividd
eastbound and We.~bound rights-of-way for'Couzlty Road S12, ~n~ up to the east~n edge of the
FEC Railroad right-of-way, meets the crltaria orca. $~t. 163340(8) and constitutes a '~lighieA
area' within thepammeter~ of state law;
~ Ia the in~t of publ/e health, safety, am/wOlfm~ o£ the residents of the
City of Sebastian, the rehabiIRafion and redevelopmmt of said ~rea is n~uary.
~ It /s the inten/ of th~ City to proceed with tc n~cessary
/nca-porak~ the de~nToecI area iilto the existing 5~bzaiau Community Redeve. lopmant
located ~ja~nt md immedia~ly to th~ east.
~ EFFECTIVE DAT~, Th/s ze..sohtiot, ia[] i effect h~diat~ly tlpon
ItaJ char
and., upon be/n~ put/nto a
Malwr Walter Bam~ aye
Vioe Mayor lames Hill .__aye "'
Co~d~b~ ~ ~. ~, Tr. are ..
Couno~b~ ~y ~o
The Mayor thereupon d~ola,'~d this Resolution duly passed 'ami adopt~l
of Dootmiber, 2002, .
CITY OF SEBASTIAN. NLORIDA
ATTEST:
C/ty CIcrk
Mayor Walter Bar~s
Approved ~ to for., a~l h/~./ty for
re, l/!oe by/h Ci~ of Seb~sfl~. only:
CRA Master Plan
Appendix
Appendix C
Revised CRA Legal Description
Sebastian, Florida
Page 46 of 49
12-3-03
Legal Description
SebasfianCRA
Begin at the northeast comer of the municipal limits of the City of Sebastian; mn west following
the city limits to a point of intersection of the eastern right-of-way line of the Florida East Coast
Railroad; mn southeast following the east fight-of-way line of the Florida East Coast Railroad to
the point of intersection of the City of Sebastian's southern municipa] limits; mn east following
the City of Sebastian's municipa] limits; mn northwest following the same city limits to the point
of beginning.
Expansion area legal description
Begin at the intersection of the east right-of-way line of the Florida East Coast Railroad and the
western right-of-way line of westbound Sebastian Boulevard (CR 512 west); mn southwest along
the western right'of-way line of westbound Sebastian Boulevard (CR 51.2 west) to the southeast
point of intersection of the right-of-way lines of Calamondin Street and Temple Avenue; mn west
along the south right-of-way line.of Calamondin Street to its southwest limit; mn west following
the north boundary of Parcel # 1 of the Coy A. Clark Company Plat; mn south following the west
boundary of Parcel # 1 of the Coy A. Clark Company Plat to the western right-of-way line of
Sebastian Boulevard (CR 512 west); mn southwest along the western right-of-way line of
Sebastian Boulevard (CR 512 west) approximately 200 feet; nm southeast perpendicular to the
right-of-way of Sebastian Boulevard (CR 512) to the northernmost limit of thc boundary between
Lots 48 and 49, Sebastian Highlands Unit 12 subdivision, Plat Book 7, Page 57A, of the Public
Records of Indian County, Florida; mn northeast along the eastern right-of-way of Sebastian
Boulevard (CR 512 east) to the easternmost right-of-way of the alley running through Lot 58,
Sebastian Highlands Unit 12 subdivision; nm southeast along said alley fight-of-way line to a
point' of intersection at the southernmost boundary of Lot 58; run northeast along the
southernmost boundary of Lots 58-71, Sebastian Highlands Unit 12 subdivision to a point of
intersection with the west right-of-way line of South Wimbrow Drive; continue northeast from
the right-of-way of South Wimbrow Drive to the southwest corner of Lot 5, Sebastian Highlands
Unit 12 subdivision; continue northeast along the southernmost boundary of Lots 5 through 12,
Sebastian Highlands Unit 12 subdivision and conimue to a point of intersection at the eastern
right-of-way line of the drainage right-of-way, as identified on Plat Book 8, Page 44D, of the
Public Records of Indian River County, Florida; mn south along the east side of the drainage
right-of-way line and continue following the said right-of-way eastward; continue to follow the
same right-of-way southward to a point of intersection at the southern municipal limits of the City
of Sebastian; mn east following the southern municipal limits of the City of Sebastian to a point
of intersection with the western right-of-way line of thc Florida East Coast Raikoad; mn
northwest following the municipal limits of the City of Sebastian; continue westward following
the said municipal limits of the City of Sebastian; continue northward following the same
municipal limits of the City of Sebastian; continue northeast following the municipal limits of the
City of Sebastian to a point of intersection of the eastern fight-of-way linc of the Florida East
Coast Kailroad; follow the east right-of-way line of thc Florida East Coast Railroad to the point of
beginning.
CRA Master Plan
Appendix
Appendix D
Existing Land Development Code
· Performance Overlay Districts
Sebastian, Florida
Page 47 of 49
12-3-03
ARTICLE ~. PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
See. 54-4.21.1. Intent.
The intent of this section is to describe certain Perfomance Overlay zones used to impose
special deve~apment restrictions an identified areas. The location of Performance Overlay
zones is es~abllshed by the City of Sebastianbesed on the need for special protective measures
in that area. The underlying uses inthe area, as determined in chapter H efthis code, remain
undisturbed by the creation of the Performance Overlay zone. The Performance Overlay zone
merely imposes' additional or different development standards than those that would other-
wise apply.
See. 54-4-21.2. Purpose.
The overall purpose of these' regulations, is to:
(a) Promote an attractive and inviting corridor;
(b) Provide for a sufficient amount of attractive and' well-maintained .landscaping to
complement buildings and s~ucrures within the corridor;
(c) Encourage development of attractive buildings within the corridor;
(d) Ensure unobtrusive and orderly signags that averts a garish and visually cluttered
appearance along the corridor;
(e) Encourage creative designs and buildings of quality;
(f) Foster creative approaches that resnlt in buildings of enduring character through use
of quality design and building materials; and
(g) Make the Overlay Districts consistent with.their vision statements.
Sec. 54-4-21~. Special regulations and exemptions.
fa) Exemptions. Within the Performance Overlay Districts, the following exemptions shell
apply;
(1) Single-f~mily development and redevelopment shall be exempt from all Performance
Overlay District spe~ial'devalopment regulations.
(2) Industrial and storage buildings located within an industrial district shall be ex-
empted from foundation planting landscaping requirements and arckitoctura]~'
building requirements only if no building facades abut a residentially zoned area or
front on public or platted roads, All industrial 'buildings shall satisfy the color
requirements.
(3) Electrical substations and similar public or quasi-publicfacilities that prohibit access
by the public onto the site may be exempted from architectural/building requirements,
if the exempted building(s) and equipment will be visUally screened ~om adjacent
properties and roadways.
LDC21:I
§ 54~4-21.3 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(b) Uses. v~r~th the following exceptions, uses w~thi~ the Perfomance OverIay Districts
shall be as specified in article V of this code.
(1) Outdoor displays. No outdoor displays shall be permitted unless approved by the
planning and zoning commiselon pursuan~ ~o section 54-3.10.2(d).
(2) Uses with vehicle and service bays. Uses involving vehicle and service bays that are
oriented perpendicular to.CR 512 are allowed only if a Type "B" buffer with. a four-foot
high opaque feature is provided along the site's CR 512 frontage.
(3) Underground utilities services required. Where new utilities services (e.g~ electrical,
phone, cable) are provided to project sites, such service shall be installed underground.
(4) Connection ~o pedestrian syStemsl Projects fronting on roads with existing.or pl,nned/
required sidew~lk~ and/or bikeways shall provide a pedestrian path from the p~ject to
the existing or future sidewalk and/or bikeway. Said pedestrian path shall have a
minimum width of five fee~, shall consist'of a rigid surface meeting Florida Accessi-
bility Code requirements, and may include properly marked areas that cress, parking
10ts and driveways.
Sec. 54-4.21.4. Plan approval;
In the Performance Overlay Districts, development and redevelopment requiring adminis-
trative, minor modification or site plan approvai' and exterior renovations shall comply with
the'districts plan requirements. The area of dovelopmen~ for such projects shall be the Urea of
the site containing buildings, additions, stnmctures, facilities or improvements proposed by the
applicant or required to serve those items prepeSod by the applicant.
Sec. 54-4-21.5. Supplementary requirements for site plan submittal and review.
(a) Preliminary review of site plans. Preliml,ary staff review of site plans is mandatory,
Including renew of landscaping and wee preservation plans; architectural plans, lighting
plans, and color and exterior ~ni~la samples.
(b) Siteplan review. The drawings listed below are to be submitted in a minlm~lm 24-irlch
by 36-inch format, and are to be the largest scale, which will fit on a 24-Inch by 36-inch format.
In addition to normal site plan review submittal requirements, the following are to be
submitted at the time of site plan rewew:
(1)
Site plan. This plan shall indicate setbacks and all site developmen~ as required by the
site plan ordinance, and shall depict: building orientation; locations of signage,
location of service areas, dumpsters, loading zones, mechanical equipment, and any
other "visually offensive elements" as described in these requirements, including
locations and specifications of scrsemng devices.
(2)
Tree plan. This plan shall indicate location, diameter at breast height (dbh) four and
one-half feet above grade,, and species of all trees six-inch caliper (measured at dbh)
and larger.
LDC21:2
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54e4-21.5
(8)
Landscape plan. The landscape plan may be incorporated into the site plan. It shall
include calculations demonstrating compl/ance with article XIV and .the special
landscaping requirements as established within each d]strict.
Building floor plans. This plan shall depict general location of entries and. exits,
restrooms, and general uses.
Roof plan. This plan shah indicate roof type, slope, and any offensive elements (as
described in these requirements] and descriptions of screening dev/ces.
Building elevations. This plan shall include all exterior-building elevations, including
all items affecting the appearance of the building, including roof deSign, complete
description of exterior building materials, exterior building, colors, all loading zones,
mechanical and electrical equipment locations and their required screening devices,
and signs attached to buildings.
Certifications. The plan shall include certifications, t~om the project architect or
engineer that proposed roof plans and elevation plans satisfy the Overlay Districts
architectural/building standards.
Other requirements. Prior to site plan'release, applicants shall submit to pl~n,~i,~g and
growth management depa~ tment three sets of the following and shall obtain planning
staff approval of each component:
a. Site lighting plan. The site lighting plan may be incorporated into the site plan.
It must indicate the site lighting plan, as well as a light fixture schedule with cut
sheets (written specifications and pictorial representation including photometric
chart~ for all site lighting fixtures. This includes any site lighting fLxtures
attached to bui]dlnEs.
b. Sign elevations (~Jnlmum scale: t]xree-quarters inch equals one foot). These are
to be detailed drawings of building and site signage including all items affecting
~he appearance of signs, including but not l~m~ted to: dimensions, area~u square
feet, complete description of finish materials and their colors, color so. mples
(minim~m size three inches by five inches, using Pantone Matching System®
numbers with color number on back of each sample) and method of ill~min~tion.
This is' required for 'all outdoor signs except those which cannot be determh~ed
because the occupancy of the space is not known. Any signs not reviewed at site
plan review time for this reason must be reviewed Under these requirements
prior to the issuance of a sign permit.
c. Building color samples ~m~n~raum sample sizes: three by five inches): Exterior
and exterior signage color samples shall be submitted.
d. Certification. Certification from the project architect or engineer that the
proposed site and exterior building lighting, proposed mgnage, and proposed
building and signage colors satisfy the Overlay District's lighting, signage and
color standards.
LDC21:3
§ 54-4-21.5 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(c) Approval for change of exterior design required. Changes to the exterior ofauy structure
in the Overlay Districts shall require review and approval by the pl~nlng and growth
management depar~en~. Such changes shall include, but not be limited to, colors, building
materials, roof finishes and signage. Rout/ne maintenance and replacement of materiais which
do not affect the approved exterior design shall be exempt from such review and approval.
Sec. 54-4-21.6, Waivers.
As part of an application for development, a request may be made for a waiver of any of the
provisions of this article. The request shall be heard'by the plaon~ng and zon~n~ gommi~81on
in determining ffany such provision be waived, modified or applied as written. The pl~nnlng
and zoning commission shall hold a quasi-judicial hearing on.the requested waiver. The
criterion for granting a waiver or modification of any o£ the provisions of this article is whether
the strict interpretation of the requirements of this article places an inordinate burden on the
proper~y owner as defined by Florida Statutes. The waiver procedure herein is the.exclusive
remedy to the application of the provisions of this article and is to be utilized in Zieu of an
application for a variance.
Historic buildings. The plsnnlng and zoning commission may waive the requirements of the
performance overlay districts for the purpose of preserving a historic building.
DMSION A. RIVERFRONT OVERLAY DISTRICT REGULATIONS
Sec. 54-4-21..~1 Intent.
This Riverfront Overlay District is designed to encourage development and redevelopment
within the Riverfront District-that includes promotion of traditional building types with
arcades, balconies, and porches. Additionally, the intent of the district is tO c~eate a sense of
place and promote social interaction on the streets of the Riverfront District and encourage
durable construction that is harmonious with the architectural heritage known as the "Old
Florida Fishing ?fllage" of Sebastian.
Sec. ~4-4-2LA.2. Boundaries.
(a) Established: A special Performance Overlay District is hereby established to be known
as the "Old Florida Fishing ~rHlage" Riverfront District.
(b) Boundaries: The Riverfront District shall include that portion of the City of Sebastian
loca~yd east of the Florida East Coast Railroad to and including the Indian River, north to the
city ]{rnlts and south to the south city ]imlts located approximately at the south section line of
Section 6, Township 31S, Range 39E.
(c) Riverfront District requirements: All development in the Riverfront Disti'ict shall comply
with the requirements of this article. Thestandards and requirements set forth below shall
apply rn new development, conversion in use from residential'to, commercial, and to building
exterior refinishing.
LDC21:4
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21~.3
Sec. 54-4-21~%.3. General.
(a) $c~pe: The design of all s~ruc~ures in the Riverfron~ District shall comply with the
requirements of this code. This pertains ~o any building, group of buildings, site development,
alterations affecting buildings exterior, parklnS lots, and vehicular use areas.. Compliance
with the pro~nsioas in this code shall be reviewed bT the growth management depa~-~ent,
pla~n~g and zoning commission and the city council as appropriate. Precedanc~ shall not'be
set by any project or variances approved by the growth management depa~ant,
and zoning commlSSlOn, city council, or the board of adjustment.
(b) Approval for change of exterior design required: Any exterior change of any structure in
the Riverfront District shall require review by'the growth management department. S~tch
changes shall include, but not'be lim~tsd rn, colors, building materials, roof finishes, and
signage. Changes to the architectural features or Style, landscaping, or signs shall be approved
by the growth management director. Modifications to the .site plan shall be approved m
compliance with the site plan mo,~i~catlan process in article i~2 Routine maintenance, and
replacement of materials which does not affect the approved exterior design shall be exempt
from this paragraph.
'(c) Prohibited architectural sVyles: The following are not considered to be consistent with
the "Old Florida Fishing Irdlage'.' architectural style nor appropriate for the Riverfront D~strict
and are prohibited:
(1) Corporate signavare or commercial prototype architec-cure, unless such is consistent
with all requirements of this code~ Examples of such include, but are not li~n~tsd'to, flat
roofed cenveuience stores and gas stations.
(2) Buildings which are ofsymboilc design for reasons of advertising and buildings which
are nor compatible to the atmosphere of Riverfront District. Examplos of such include
"A frame" style roofs, garishly colored roofs, translucent architectmml elements, and
the like. Symbols attached to buildings will not be allOWed *~n]ess they are secondary
[u appearance to the building and landscape~ and are an aesthetic asset to the building
project and neighborhood.
(3) Any kitsch architecture (pretentious bad taste) which does not resemble a ~ypical
sVructure. Examples of such include, but are not limited to, structures that resemble
an exaggerated plant, fish, edible food, or other such items such as giant oranges, ice
(4) Any architecture having a historical reference that.is so unique and different from
current design philosophy of an "Old Florida Fishing Village" that such reference is
mconsistent and/or incompatible with surrounding s~actures. E~mples of such
include, but are not limited to, ~gloos, domes or geodesic: domes, Quonset s~yle
s~ru~ures, mepees~ log cabins, medieval castle, caves.
(5) Styles that are not in. the "Old Florida Fishin~ Village" theme. Art Deco style is
prohibited.
LDC21:5
§ 54-4~21.A.4 SEBASTIAI~ LAirD DEVELOPMENT CODE
Sec. 54-4-21J~4. SpeCial provisions.
(a) Provisions: The "uses" below must follow all ~riteria set forth in this code. The following
are added criteria for each specific '~se":
(1) Residentially designated properties..The following materials are approved for use in
residentially designated areas: fiberglass or asphalt shingle-style roofing, fcc sloped
roofs and visible roof structures, and textured plywood as a ~n~h product. Rooftop
screening devices shall not be required for attic vantilatccs or plumbing roofvente on
residentially designated properties~ However, roof ventilaters, roof vents, and the Hire
shall be located where they will be. least visible from roadways.
(2) Commercial eenrars and out-parcels. The materials, exterior finishas, signage and
colors of shopping centers and strnctoxes developed on ~hepping conmr on,parcels
shRtl be compatible, and harmonious with each other as determined by which
structures are developed ~rst. This requirement may be waived by tha planning and
zoning commission if:
a. The initial shopping center cc outparcel was built prior to the enactment of the
Riverfront District special regulations; and
b. It is detccml.ed by the pl~nnlng and. growth management department that
enforcement of this requirement would conflict with the intent of these Riverfront
District special requirements.
sec. 54.4-21.A.5. Design criteria.
(a) General design criterion'
(1)
(2)
(3)
Buildings wlth facades fronting on more ~han one street should have equal design
coneidccations and consistent det~illng on all street frontages.
Porches on the front building facade are. encouraged.
Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences or landscape buffers are encouraged along the
front property line, on corner lots and along the side proper~y line. Arbors and trellises
are permitted in the front yard. Except for arbccs and trellises, the minimum height of
fences shall be three feet and the raaximum height shall be four feet. The mR~m,nn
height for arbors and trellises shall be ten .feet. Above fences, architectural features of
up to 12 inches shall be allowed. Such features shall be spaced a minimum often fee~
apart. Chain link fences are nor permitted in the front yards. Walls are discouraged.
All walls shall be constructed of brick or other decorative materials end shall not
exceed four feet in height.
(4)
Ifa building facade is 100 feet or mcce in width measUred parallel to the nearest body
of water, an open vista of at least ten feet in width and eight feet in height shah be
required within the. building~s facade to allow a visual corridor from the publi~
right-of-way.to the adjacent body of water.
LDC21:6
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
(b) General items which are prohibited:
(1)
(2)
§ 54-4-2LA.5
(3)
Flat, blank, unarticulated, or massive facades are prohibited on front facades. Facades
located within view of a roadway are to incorporate architectural elements providing
breaks in the planes of exgerior wails and/or roofs; Facades located within view of
roadway are m be designed ~o lessen the appearance of excessive bulk (this is
especially important for large-scale commercial'structures). Facades can be divided by
USe of: proportionai expression of structure, openings, arcades, canopies, fenestration,
changes of the building, and the like. (Stepping or sloping of a parapet wall m
conjunction with a low sloped roof is prohibited.) Flat, blank, unarticulated, or massive
facades will be permitted on the sides and rear of a building where "Blank Facade
Foundation Planting" is utilized(see landscape section for requirements).
The following materials or systems for siding are prohibited as a finish and/or exposed
product: corrugated or ribbed panels, smooth finish concrete block (staridard concrete
masonry units), precast concrete tee systems~ plywood or textured plywood (except
vertical board and batten). Plywood will be allowed for soffit material.
Any canopy (such as for a gas station, car wash, or drive-t~rough facility) that is wholly
or partially within 75 feet of a thoroughfare plan read right-of-way sh~l] meet the
following reqmrements concerning maximum fascia height (This pertnlns to all fascia
on the above descril~ed canopy including any canopy fascia that continues beyond the
75-foot limit.):
Roof Slope Distance
Less than 10 feet
10 to 20 feet
Greater than. 20 feet
Maximum Fascia Height
8 inches
12 inches
16 inches
(4) Plastic or metal is prohibited as a ~inlsh material for walls or trim. Plastic is prohibited
as a flifish material for sloped roofs, visible roof structures, and ~ascias. Although
prohibited in general, certain metal and plastic construction products may be approved
by the planning and zoning commission, upon a written request and product sample
submitted by the applicant. The planning and zoning cornm,ssion may approve use of
the material ff the following criteria are satisfied:
i. The .product shall appear authentic from the closest distance that it win be
viewed by the general public.
ii. The prOduct shall be substantial. Thin and flimsy 'imitations are unacceptable.
iii. The product shall hold up as well as the product it is imitating. That is, it must
be fabricatsd in such a way that it will retain its original shape, appearance, and
color, as well as the product it is imitating.
~v. The product's color shall resemble the color of the product it is imitating.
(5) Any exposed masonry in a stack bond is prohibited,
LDC21:7
§ 54-4-21'.A.5 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMEI~r CODE
(6) Lighting that follows the ism of the building, par~s of the buildingy, or building
elements is prohibited.
(7) Neon lighting, fiber optics, or ~m~]ar system trim where the neon tube, fiber optics or
similar system is visible is prohibited (This restriction includes site signage)
(8) Backlit ~ransparent architectural.elementz, back]it architectural elements, as well as
~ll,,m~nated or bacldit awnings and roof elements are prohibited. This does not prohibit
the use of glass blocks or the use of an illuminated sign attached to a building.
(9) Facades that appear to be primarily awnings, are prohibited. An awn~n~ shall not run
continuously for moro than 30% percent of the length of any single, facade. Placement
of awning segments shall relate '~o building features (e.g. doorways and windows),
where possible. Awning segments shall not exceed 25% of the length of any single
facade.
(10) 'q)rive-up" Windows or "amusement loud speakers" located on' a building facade that
faces a residential use are prohibited. They shall not be located On a building facade
that faces In.an River Drive except for special events as permitted by the city council.
(11) Accessory structures; including sheds, out, buildings, dumpster enclosures, and screen_
in§ struc~uros, shall match the style, finish, and color of the site's main b~i]~ing. Metul
utility sheds and temporary car cauopies are prohibited.
(c) Roofs and parapets:
(1)
Slope roofs: Gable, hip, and ~shed style roofs shall have a slope no le~s than 5:12
(rise:run) and not greater than 10:12 (r~e:run). Mansard style roofs with a s~ope
greater than 10:12 (rise:run) are prohibited. Gener6us eaves on sloped roofs are
encouraged. Any roof with a slopeless than 5:12 (rise:run) ("low sloped roo?') shall not
be Visible from a roadway. Low sloped roofs must be screened with a visible roof
s~ruc~ure or parapet wall. Sheds, porches.and balcony roofs shall have a slope no less
than 3:12 (rise:run).
(2)
Visibte roof structures: Visible roof structuresshall be of such bedight, bulk. and mass,
so as to appear s~rucrural, even where the design ~s non-structural. V'mible roof
structures shall have a mlnimum vertical ~se of six feet (not including fascia). Visible
roof s~ruct~res shall have a slope no less than 5:12 and not greater than 10:12
(rise:run)~ Mansard style viable roof su'uc~ures with a slope greater than 10:12
(rise:run) are prohibited. Where visible roof structures are Utilized in a bailding
design, they shall be continuous around all sides of the structure,, except where
incorporated with. a parapet wall or other archih~octural element (this does not allow
"stuck-on" roofs). Any facade that is not visible from a roadway, will not require a
continuous visible reof structure, on that facade. A~y building with less than' ~,500
square feet of enclosed space and utilizing a low sloped roof must have a visible roof
sumcu~re on all facades which arevisible from a roadway.
LDC21:8
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21A.5
(3) The following roof styles are prohibited. "A,freme," bowstring, 'd0me~ gambrel, non-
symmetrical gable or hip (different slope on each side of ridge); ,quonset, and
polynesian. Gable orhip roof with up to a 10:12 (rise:run) m~num pitch .with a
"skirted" or '~lared" lower portion at a 3:12 (rise:run) mtnlmum pitch is allowed.
(4) The ridge or plane of a roof (or. visible roof s~acture), that mas parallal (or slightly
parallel) with a roadway shall not run continuous for more than 100' feet without
offsetting or jogging the roof ridge or plane a m~,imum of 16 inche~ with domer
windows or other architectural feature that bre~W~ up the roof. Low sloped roofs are
excluded ~om ~h~ requirement.'
(5) Roofing on sloped' roofs and visible roof strucrares shall be llrn~ted to the following
systems:
Cedar shingles or shakes, slate, clay t-ilo, or cement
b. Steel, copper, and factory painted al,,,~num standing Seam roofing.
c. 5-V crhnp roof,
Galwni~ed motel or copper shingles of Victorian or diamond shape or pattern.
e. Three dimensional fiberglass or asphalt shingle.
Architectural standing seem roofs shall be B,n~ted to.the fo]lowing systems: fiat metal
panels with narrow raised se~m~ ~mn~ng 12 to 20 inches apart, which are secured
with continuous seam covers or mechanically seamed. Light and natural colors, as well
as mil! ~n~sh metal roofs are encouraged. Mi~ng panel colors is prohibited and~all
building roofs shall be of one color.
(6) Roofing materials are prohibited for use as a finish material 0n parapets or any surface
with s slope greater than 10:12 (rise.u'un), up to and including vertical:surfaces. This
pertsins only to those surfaces visible from adjacent property, exclusive of access drives
or roadways. This does not exclude the use of metal fascia six inches or less in height,
This does not exclude the use of typical motel flashing, ~all cap, drip edge, and the
like. This'does not exclude the use of roofing m~,~rials as a screening device,, as long
as it does not function as a ballding's parapet. This does not exclude the use of ~edar
shingles or shakes as a wall materiel used below the roof line.
(7) Plastic or'metal roof panels or systems, corrugated or ribbed roof panels, hot mopped
systems, bUilt-up, gravel, torched on, foam or fluid applied, roll or membrane roofing,
and the like ere prohibited on any roof which is visible from any roadway and/or
residentially designated area. This does not exclude the .use of architectural standing
seam metal roofing or galwni~ed 5-V crnnp metal roofing.
(8) Partial parapet walls are not permitted. If a parapet wall. is used on a building, then
a parapet wall of the same style and material is to be Continuous around all sides of the
structure~ except where incorporated with a visible roof structure or other architec-
tural element. Introduction of any visible roof structure shall not appear "fake". Any
LDC21:9
§ 54-4-21.A.5 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
facade that is not visible from a roadway will not require a continuous parapet wall on
that facade. Stepping.or sloping cfa parapet wall in conjunction with a low sloped roof
is prohibited.
(d) Site:
(1): All :tslephonss, Vending machlnes, or any fac/lity dispensing merchandise or a esrvico
on private proper~y, shall be confined to a space butt into the building or bUildings, or
enclbsed in a separate structure compatible with the main building's architecture.
These areas are to be designed with the safety of the user in mind: Public phones and
ATMs should have 24-hour access.
(2) No advertising will be allowed on any exposed amenity or facility such' as benches and
trash containers.
(3) :When feasible, existing spec/men trees should 'be preserved in place or relocated on
site. Use of tree wells, as well as adaptation and variations of siting in order to
conserve native vegetation, is encouraged.
(4) The use of thematic and decorative site lighting is encouraged. Low lights of a modest
scale can be used along with feature lighting that emphasizes plants, trees, entrances,
and e~its. Light ballards are encouraged along pedestrian paths. The color of the light
sources (lamp) should be. consistent throughout the project. Color of site lighting
J,~mlnaries, poles, and the like shali be ]imlted to dark bronze, black~ or dark green
(decorative fixtures attached to buildings are exempt from the fixture color require-
Lighting is not .to be used as a form of advertising or in a manner that draws
considerably more attention to the building or groUnds at night'than in the day. Site
lighting shall be designed ~o direct light into the property. Lighting .shall avoid any
Annoyance to the neighbors from brightness or glare.
(5) Roadway s~yle h~mi,~aries (fixtures) such as cobra heads, Nema heads, and the like are
prohibited. Wail'pads and flood light'.~l,,mi~taries are prohibited where the light source
would be visible'from a roadway, parking area and/or residentially designated area.
High intensity discharge .(e.g: high pressure sodium, metal halide, mercury vapor,
t~m~ten halogen) lighting fixturesmounted on buildings and poles h/ghsr than 18 feet
above the parking lot grade, and Under canopies, shall.be directed perpendicular to the
ground. Other than decorative and low level/low height lighting, no light source or lens
shall project above or below a fixture, box, shield, or canopy.
(e) Screening devices:
(1) 'q/isually offensive elements," whether freestanding, mounted on roofs, or located
anywhere on a structure shall be concealed from view on all sides. Individual screens,
building elements, or appropriate landscaping, are to be used to.completely screen the
offensive elements from view from adjacent roads, properties, and parking areas.
Parapet walls, visible roof structures, individual screens, or buildingelements shall be
used to completely screen roof mounted, visually offensive elements from view from
LDC21:10
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21~5
any point around the entire building perimeter. Screening devices shall relate co the
buildings style of architecture and materials. An screening devices shall be designed
so that no part of the offensive element extends beyond th~ top of the screen, measured
vertically~ Roofcop..screening devices shall not be required for pluml~ing roof vents
which are less than four inches in diameter and less than 12 inches above roof
penetration. These roof vents are to be located where they will be least visible from
roadways.
(2) 'Nuisance elements" shall be visually screened from adjacent roadways and/or
residentially designated areas with solid walls in addition to any required landscaping.
Loading dock buffering shall meet standards of the landscape ordinance.(article. XI-v-).
An other walls shail be a minimum of six feet 'in height. All dumpster and trash
container areas shall be completely screened on all sides. Anoise abatement enclosure
shall 'be used on HVAC equipment.
(3) Individual screens and walls shall relate to the bnilding's style of architecture and
materials. A durable material such ss reinforced concrete masonry units is recom-
mended with an architecturally compatible finish. Wood fences as a screening device
are encouraged~
(4)
Chain llnk fencing, with. Or without slats, ~s prohibited as a screening device for
screenlno~ visua].ty offensive elements and nuisance element~. Where chain llnk or
similar renting is allowed tobe used (e.g;, around stem water ponds); such fencing
shall be green or black and shall be located and landscaped so as to visually screen the
fencing from public v/ow.
(f) Building walls. The exterior walls of the principal building shall be consumcted of any
of the following materials and in the following specified manner. An materials shall be used
over the entire building or as continuous horizontal blends only. No paneHzing shall be
permitted or other simulations.
(1) Stucco with a "float finish," smooth or coarse, machine spray, dash and troweled.
(2) Wood clapboard five inches to the weather.
(3) Wood shingles seven inches to the'weather.
(4) Wood board or batten board of a board width from eight to 18 inches.
(5) Wood shlplap siding smooth face seven inches ~o the weather.
(6) Coral, keystone or tabby.
(7) Ashlar pa~ern, flush sawn finish.
(8) Split face block.
(g) Arcades and porches: Arcades, balconies, or porches shall be constructed of materials
either.of wood or conform to the construction of the principal~building.
LDC21:ll
§ 54-4-21.A.5 SEBASTIAI~ LA1VD DEVELOPMENT CODE
(h) C~rds~ w~Hs: The garden walls of the principal building shall be constructed of either
wood, wrought iron, or PVC lattice, or shall conform to the construction materials of the
principal building, incl~dlug stone, brick, and stucco...Chain llnk fence co~acealed by landscap-
ing may be used'along the.side and rear of the property. No simulations shall be.permitted.
(i) Accessory buildings: Accessory slwacturee~ including sheds, out-bufldings~ dumpstor
enclosures, and screening strnc~uree, Shall match the style, ~qni~h, and color of the site's va~in
building. Metal utility sheds and temporary car canopies are prohibited.
Sec. 54-4-2LA.6. Colors.
(a) Intent. The intent is to use Colors that complement the~ adopted "Old FIerida Fishing
Xrdlage'' theme. Bright and garish colors, as a means of attracting attention to a'business are
not characteristic of the Riverfront District and are not compatible with this code's objectives.
(1) Whites, earthtenes, and subdued greys are encouraged. These colors can be described
as being "soi~er", "older", "subdued", and "antique looking".
(2) Fluorescent and bright colors are prohibited.
(b) Color standards. An buildings and accessory sn'uc~ures within the Riverf~ont Overlay
District shall be limited to the colors listed'in the Overlay Districts master color list,
(c) Roof co/ors (requirements for roofs that are visible from a readway): Metal. roof colors
shall consist of natural mill finish, white, light neutral colors in the warm range, and a limited
number of earth-tone colors. Mi~ing or alternating colors of metal panels is prohibited.. For
remaining roofs, the following shall' dictate: Other than. natural variations in color or color
blends within a tile, the ~ixqng or alternating of roof color, in the ,~-~,e roof material m
prohibited. Colors and color blends shah not be contrary to the intent of this code. Color for
roo~-s which is glazed, slurry coated, or artificially Colored on the surface by any other means
shall be limited to the enme colors as approved for metal roofs.
(d) Natural finish materials: The color requirements listed above shall not apply to the
colors of true natural finish materials such as brick, stone, terra cetta, concrete roof tiles, slate,
integrally colored concrete masonry units, copper, and. wood finishes. Colors commonly found
in natural materials are encouraged, unless such material has been artificially colored in a
manner which would be conVrary to the intent of this code.
(e) Awning colors: Awning colors shall be consistent with item (a) above.
(f) Overlay District master color list. The Overlay Districts master color list and approved
color board shall be maintained and made available by the planning and growth managemen~
staff. The list can be mailed or faxed upon request.
Sec. 54-4-21.A.7. Landscape requirements.
(a) Purpose: The purpose of the Riverfrant District Landscape Code is. to emphasize the
nnpac; of landscape design' and maintenance on the health of the Indian River Lagoon.and to
enhance the beauty of the. Riverfront District.
LDC21:12
PERFORIPIANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21.A.7
(b) Intent: The intent of the Riverfrent Landscape Code is to promote wise landscape design
that can benefit the Indian River Lagoon with reduced irrigati0n~ fertilization, and pest control
needs.
(1) Encourage the use of native plants. Large o~lrs and cabbage palms are among the
m~ny native plants which can give the feel of "Old Florida Fishing Village". Native
plants properly sited can minimize maintenance costs.and' compliment the historic
appeal of the Riverfront District.
(2) Put the right plant in the right place~. Encourage the uso of plants suited to the soft
conditions rather than the uso of soil amendments.
(3) Native plant list. This list of native plants is intended to assist the landowaer in
choosing indigenous landscaping that will have a mln~mal impact, on the Indian.River
Lagoon.
(c) Requirements: Ail development .in the Riverfront District shall comply with the
landscaping requirements as described in article XIV and. shall comply with the following
additional requirements:
(1) Landscape strips.
a, The width of the perimeter landscape Strips shall be determined by the required
front, side and rear setbacks as described in the underlying zvni,~ district. For
residential uses, the perimeter landscape strips, shall be 25% of those setbacks.
For corem,miry facilities and commercial uses, the per[meter landscape strips
shall be 50% of those setbacks, but not less than ten feet. V~hen a zero front
setback is allowed and is used, a front perimeter landscape strip between the
building and the property line is'not required.
b. Required perimeter and interior landscape strips shall not be used for any other
uses including stormwater management.
c. No more than 25% of the required perimeter and interior.landscape strips shall
be covered in sod or grass.
d. All required perimeter.and interior landscape strips not sodded or grassed shall
be covered in recycled .or environmentally friendly mulch. Lava rocks or other
dark rocks may be used in areas of high pedestrian traffic. River rock, gravel; pea
rock, or similar material, is encouraged for use in the required perimeter and
interior landscape strips.
e. Within the perimeter landscape strips, the following landscaping shall be
provided per 100 (lineal feet):
1. Five canopy trees.
2. Six understory ~rees.
3. Continuous hedge: Three to three and one-half feet high at planting.
NOTE: The hedge shall provide a visual screen three feet high above.the.grade of
the project site park~n~ area. Hedge material shall provide full screening to.the
LDC21:13
§ 54-4-2LA.7 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOP1V~ENT CODE
ground; therefore, myrtles and shrubs with s~ml]ar le,~ns.characteristics shall
not be used for hedge material unless a double row arrangement is used. At the
t/me of a certificate of occupancy (CO) for the project site, the hedging shall
provide a three-foot visual screen, subjectto city.sight distance requirements.
Clustering of trees along the buffer strip.is encouraged, and uniform spacing of
trees is discouraged, except where used to emphasize a particular planting theme
or development style.
(2) Foundation plantings~ Foundation p!antingsl shall be required as stated below for
bu~dln~s m commercial and industrial areas and for businesses allowed in residential
areas. However, for industrial and storage buildings located in the commercial.
industrial and m~ed use zoning districts, foundation planting s~:rips shall be exempt
for sides of buildings not fronting on a residentially designated area, or pabllc or
platted read.
a. Along the front, sides and rear of buildln~, the following foundation planting
landscape strips shall be provided in accordance with the building height:
Foundation Planting
Building Height ' Strip Depth~
Up to 12 feet high 5 feet depth
12 feet to 25 feet high ' 10 feet depth
Over 25 feet high 15 feet depth
distance meaSUred perpendicular to the building, ~om the foundation outward.
b. Within such foundation planting landscape strips, the follOw~g landscaping
shall be provided:
1. 40% of the foundation perimeter (excluding entranceways and overhead
doors) along all building faces shall be landscaped, as follows:
Building Height' Landscape Specifications
~]nlmo311 plant .material re- * ! p~lm tree or .appropriate canopy tree fur every 10 lineal
quired: feet of planting strip (clustered)
· 1 understory tree for every 20 lineal feet of required
planting strip.
· * 3 shrubs for every 10 square feet of required planting area.
· Ground cover, flowering plants or sod in the remaining
planting area ~ .
For buildings of 12 to 25 feetin · 10 feet minimum planting area depth
height: .
· i canopy tree for every 10 lineal feet of plunting.strip (31
p~lrn~ with a minimum height of 12 feet each may be'
substituted for each Canopy tree).
· i underStory tree for everY 20 lineal feet of required
planting strip.
LDC21:14
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS § 54-4-21~.7
Building Height Landscaps Specifications ..
· 3 shrubs for every 10 square feet ofrequired planting area~
· Ground cover, flowering plants or sod in the remaining
planting area . ..
For buildings over 25 feet in * t5 feet minimum planting area depth. ~ .
height:
· 1 canopy .tree for every. 7 lineal feet of plauting strip (3
palms with a mlnlnlnml height of 16 feet each 'may be
substituted for each canopy tree). ·
· 1 underst0ry tree for .every 10 lineal feet of required
.planting strip.
· 3 shrubs for every 10 ~quare feet of required planting area.
· Ground Cover, flowering plants or sod in the
· planting area
The following modifications are allowed upon approval from the planning
and growth management director or other designee:
i. Foundation planting su~ips may be located away from buildings to
avoid confli~s with archltectural features (e.g., rOof overhsngs)~ drive-
ways, and vehicular areas serving drive-up windows.
ii. The depth of foundation planting strips may be modified if the overall
mlnlm~nn area covered by the foundation plantings proposed meets or
exceeds the area encompassed by the required foundation planting
(d) Increased foundation plantings for "blank facade" building faces. As referenced in the
arcnitectural/building st~mdards section of this plan. "blank facade" building faces that are
unarticulated are allowed if foundation plantings are provided as specified above with a 100%
increase Idoubling) in required plant material quantities (as specified above).
(e) Increased canopy tree s/ze. All canopy trees required under normal landscaping and
buffering requirements and special Riverfront corridor plan reqmrements for projects within
the corridor shall have a minimum height of 12 feet and minimum spread of six feet.at time
of planting. ?~m ~ree clusters may be used as canopy Trees as specified in the landscape
ordinance. However, such p~lm trees shall have a minimum clear tr~m~ height of 12 feet.
(f) Other requirements. For parcels east of Indian River Drive, the landscape plan shall
include a descriptian of the existing and proposed shoreiine and wetland vegetation.
(g) Native plants for the sebastian riverfront district. Native plants can help to preserve and
foster the feeling of an "Old Florida Fishing Village". These plants are well-adapted to Florida
life and, properly sited, tbr~vo with minimal irrigation, fertilization, and pest control. The
Association of Florida Native Nurseries can assist with availability in~'ormation. The following
plants are encouraged in the Riverfront District.
LDC21:15
§ 54-4-21.~7 SEBASTIAN 1.4kND DEVELOPMENT CODE
Canopy Trees
Red maple .............................................. Acer rubrnm
Pauro~s palm .......................................... Acoelorraphe wrightii
Southern red cedar ...................................... Junlperns silic~cola
Southern magnolia ..................................... Magnolia graodltqora.
Red mulberry ......................................... Morns rubra
Redbay ................................................ Persea borbonia
Sand pine ............................................. Pinns clausa
South Florida slash pine ................................. Pinus elliotti var. densa
Live oak ............................................... Quercus virginiana
Sabal pnlm ............................................. Sabal pnlmetto
Cypress ............................................... Taxodlum sp.
Hercules club ........................................... Zanthoxylum ~lava-herculis
Undsrstory trees
Tough bumelia ......................................... Bumelia ten~Y
Buttonwood ............................................. Conocarpus erecvas
Coraibean. ............................................. Ery~hrina herbacaa
Florida prayer .......................................... Forest~era segregata
Dahoon holiy ........................................... Ilex caseins
Black ironwood .......................................... Krugiodendron ferreum
Simpsons stopper ........................................ Myrcianthes fragrans simpsoni
Wax myrtle ............................................ Myriea cerifera
Sand live oak ........................................... Quercus geminata
Shrubs/hedges
Beautyberry ............................................ Callicarpa americana
Jamaica caper .......................................... Capparie cyaophallophora
Fiddlewood ............................................. Citharexyb~m frulticosum
Seagrape ............................................... Coceoloba uvffera
Varnish leaf ............................................ Dedanaea vmcosa
Firebnsh ............................................... Harem ella patens
Florida privet .......................................... Forestiera segregata
Yaupon holly ........................................... Ilex vomitoria
Simpsons stopper ....................................... M.vrcianthes f~agrans simpsoni
W~fld coffee ............................................. Psychotria nervosa
Needle palm ............................................ Rhapidophyllum hyst~'ix
Saw palmetto .......................................... Serenoa repens
Necklace pod ........................................... Sophora t0mentosa
Walters viburnum ...................................... V~burnum obovatum
Sp~n~zh bayonet ....................................... Yucca aloif01ia
LDC21:16
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21~.8
Canopy Trees
Ground covers
Beach bean ............................................. Canavalia rosea
Golden creeper .......................................... Ernodea l/ttor~li~
Yellowtop ............................................. Flaveria linearis
B]snket flower .......................................... Galllardia pulchella
Beach dune s~m%wer ................................... Halianthus debilis
Spfder lily .............................................. Hymenocslli~ lat/felia
Dwarf yaupon holly ..................................... Ilex vomitoria var Schel]ings
Beach morning glory .................................... Ip0moea. pes-capre
Beach elder ............................................ Ira imbricat~
Coral honeysuckle ......................................
Muhly grass ...........................................
Boston fern ............................................
Wild petunia ...........................................
Red sage ...............................................
Spiderwort ............................... ; .............
Lonicera sempervirans.
Muhlenbergia capiilaris
Neprolepsis biserrata
Ruellia carollnlez~is
Salvia coccinea
Tradescantia ohienais
Coontie ................................................. Z~mla l:n~milt~
Along the shore]/ne
Giant leather fern ....................................... Acrostichum danae/folium
Black mangrove ........................................ Avicennia germlnans
Sea-oxeye daisy .......................................... Barrichia frutesosns
Railroad vine ............................................ Ipomoea pes-capre
White mangrove ........................................ Laguncularia racemosa
Christmas berry ........................................ Lycium carolinianum
Red mangrove .......................................... Rhizophora mangle
Cordgrass ............................................. Spartan. sp.
(h) Approval for changes of landscape plan required: Any change of a landscape plan .in the
Riverfront District, originally require~l to comply with these landscape requiremants, shall
requi~e review and approval by the growth management depa~-hnent. Such changes shall
include, but not be limited to, changes of plant material, height, location, cOlor~, or hardscape
materials. Routine maintenance and replacement of materials which does. not affec~ the
approved landscape plan shall be exempt from this paragraph.
Sec. 54-4.21.A~8. Sign regulations.
(a) Scope: These special regulations consist of additional requirements above and beyond
the city's sign ordinance and shall supersede any less restrictive provismns found in the sign
ordinance. All signage shall comply with the requirements of the sign ordinance except as
modified by these special sign regulations. All s~_?~ within the district are intended to be
consistent with and further the."Old Florida Fishing ~rdlage" theme:
LDC21:17
§ 54-4-21~.8 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(b) Prohibited signs. The provisions stated herein are in addition to prohibitions listed in
article X'VI, Signage and Advertising. The following are prohibited:
(1)
Lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker, or vary in
intensity or color, except for time-temperature-date signs. Public signs permitted
pursuant to article XVI, Signage and Advertising provisions, are excluded from this
prohibition and are allowed.
(2)
Electronic' message boards and .message centers, electronic adjustable alternation
displays, or any sign that automatically displays words, numerals, and or characters
in e programmed manner. Traffic regulatory and directional signs permitted pursuant
to article XVI, Signage.and Advertising provisions, areexcluded from this prohibition
and are allowed.
(3) Portable or trailer style changeable copy signs, excepting approved ~pecial event signs.
(4) Signs with the optical illusiens of movement by means of a design that presents a
pattern capable of giving the illusion of motion or changing of copy.
(5) Strings of light bulbs used on nonresidential structures for commercial purposes, other
than traditienal.holiday decorations at the appropriate time of the year.
(6) signs that emi~.audible sennd,'odor, or visible matter, such as smoke or steam.
(7) Neon lighting, fiber optics or shnilar systems, which exceed six square feet in area, and
where the neon tube, fiber optic or similar system is visible from the outside is
prohibited. Neon lighting, fiber optics and similar systems shall not be used for
outllnlug the bnilding including the windows.
(8) Rough plywood used for permanent signs.
(9) Any material used in such a manner for a permanent sign that results in a sign. haviag
a semblance to the look of a temporary 'sign but intended by the owner to be
permanent,
(10) Installation of an additional sign (or signs) that does not harmonize with the design or
materials of the initial sign, such as:
a. Attachment or mounting of signs where mounting hardware is left exposed.
b. Signs with different color cabinets, frames, or structure.
(11) Appliques or letters of vinyl and similar materials for use on any permanent
monument sign. They are also prokibited for use on. any permanent wail or facade
signs that exceed three square feet. Window signs as allowed in this article are
· excluded from this prohibition. Regardless of size, appliques or vinyl letters are
prohibited for use on plastic sign faces.
(12) Changeable copy mgns for office, industrial, commercial and residential uses, un]ess
such sign is incorporated within the allowable, monument sign area.
LDC21:18
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4~21~.8
(c) Items that are encourage&
(1) Attractive and durable materials such as the follovang are consistent with the "Old
Florida Fishing V~llage" theme and are encouraged:
a. Shaped' and fashioned' "wood look" multi-leval signs are encouraged (i.e.: sand
blasted or carved). Low maintenance, durable materials such as high density
p01yurethane, PVC, and high performance 'vinyl.are encouraged and preferred
over actual wood or medium density overlay (MDO) plYWood.
b, Internally in,,m~n~ted a],mlnum cabinet with textured finish, and cut-out inset
or push through acrylic letters.
c. Bacldlt reverse pan channel letters (opaque faced) mounted on sign that is
harmonious with the project's architecture;
(2) Encourage consistency in materials and continuity of the sign design for a permanent
sign.
(3) Signage that relates to the building% style ofarckitecture and materials is encouraged.
(d) Modifications of sign regulations.
(1) ' Ma~mum copy area: Reduce te 50% of what is allowed in article X'VI, Signage.
(2) Required setbacks ~?om property lines or right, of-way: No change.
(3) Disrauce separating signs: No change.
(el Colors:
(I) The following colors are encouraged for signage:
a. Use of earth-tone colors and pastels.
b. Darker backgrounds with light color sign copy.
c. Use of colors that ma~ch or are compatible with the project's architecture.
d. Colors such as medium or dark bronze are acceptable and encouraged. Polished
er weathered true bronze, brass, or copper metal ~nlshed are acceptable and
encouraged. Precious metal colors are allowed on sand blasted or carved "wood
look" Style signs.
(2) The following colors are prohibited far slgnage:
a. The use of shiny or bright metallic or mill finish co]ore (i.e.: gold, silver, bronze,
chrome, alorn~ntull, 8talllles8 steel, eto. I.
b. The use of garish colors (including but not limited to: purple, chartreuse and/or
fluorescent colors), unless such co]ors are par~ of a state or federal registered
trademark.
(D Approval for change of sign design required: Any exterior change of signage in the
Riverfront District, originally required to comply with this sign ordinance, shall require review
and approval by the community devalopment department. Such changes shall include, but not
LDC2t:19
§ 54-4-21.A.8 SEBASTIAN.LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
be limited to, changes of: sign area (square footage), sign copy area (square footage); sign copy
(th_is does not apply to "cho~ugeable copy" signage), height, shape, style, location, colors,
materials, or method of ili,~m~nation~ Routine maintenance and replacement of materials
which does not affect the approved design shall be exempt from ~his paragraph.
(g) Special provzsions.
(1) Multi-tenant spaces: Multi-tenant spaces such as shopping centers, out parcels,
commercial complexes and parks, and office complexes and parks will be required to
submit to the growth managemenT, depa,~enr a sign. program for review and
approval. This sign program shall communicate the coordination anc~ consistency of
design, colors,.materials, il]~m~nation, and locations of signage. In multi-tenant spaces
where no established pattern exists as described above, the owner of the multi-tenant
spaces shall be required to submit a sign program for approval prior to issuance of any
new sign permits.
(2) Wall s~gnage:
a. The mA~rlmunl vertical dimension of a facade or wall sign shall not exceed 25% of
the building height, not to exceed four feet.
b. Awnings with lettering shall be considered a wall sign. Where lettering is used on
an awning, the area of lettering shall be included in the percentage' llm4t~tion of
a project's sign area.
c. Wall signs (facade signs) are prohibited on roofs.
(3) Changeable copy signs: Changeable copy signs shall be regulated under the following
guidelines.
a. Changeable copy signs shall not comprise more than 50% of the permitted sign
area and shall be included as part of the permitted sign area, except as described
herein below.
b. Motor vehicle service Stations and convenience stores with gas pumps may utilize
up to 100% of permitted sign area for changeable prices of gasalines only (or as
regulated by federal law).
c. Movie theaters may utilize up to 80% of permitted sign area for display Of names
of ~lms, plays or other performances currently showing. Such changeable copy
areas shall be included as part of the permitted sign area.
(4) l]lamination: All external flood sign ill~mlnation shall be mounted at grade, directly in
front of the sign area. Light source shall be completely shialded- from oncoming
motorist's view.
(5) NenconformJng signs: It is the intent of this section to allow nonconforming signs
permitted before the adoption of this code to continue until they are no longer used, or
become hazardous, but not to encourage their survival. Such signs are hereby declared
to be incompatible with the overall intent of this section.
a. Removal of nonconformin~ signs: All nOnconforming signs, except as provided for
herein, shall be removed.
LDC21:20
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21.A.9
b. Continuance of nonconforming signs: A nonconforming sign may be continued,
subject m the following provisions:
1. A nonconforming s~gn shall not be ~larged or increased in. any way ~om its
lawful size at the time of the adoption of this code.
2. Nonconforming signs, or nonconformlr~g sign structures that are defined as
abandoned signs shall not be permitted for reuse.
3. Except as otherwise provided herein, there may be a change of'tenancy or
ownership of a nonconforming sign, Without the loss of nonconforming
status, if the prepex-Ly'is not abandoned:
c. Repairs, maintenance, and improvements: t~orma] !~epmrs, .maintenance, and
improvements may be mede.
d. Reconstruction: If any nonconforming sign is destroyed by fire, flood, explosion,
collapse, wind, or other catastrophe, ii sh~ll not be used orrecenstructed except
in full conformity with the provisions of'these special regulations.
e. Casual, temporary, or illegal use: The casual, temporary,,or ilIegal use of any sign
shall not be sufficien~ to establish the existence of a'nonconformlng use or ~o
create any rights in the continuance of such use.
Sec. 54.4-21~.9. Nonconfomities.
Within the Riverfront Overlay District, legally established existing development and uses
that do not comply with these special regulations are grandfathered-in. All nonconforming
uses end structures are governed by article ¥111. In addition, wi~hln the Riverffont District,
the following, nonconformities regulations shall appl~.
(a)
lVonconforming property: It. is. the intent of this chapter to allow nonconforming
properties to continue, but also encourage their conformity to what extent is POssible
considering the existing site conditions and characteristiCS.'' A'"compatible prepert-y~'
shall be considered m compliance with the intent of the Riverffont District special
regulations.
(b)
Continuance of nonconforming properry: A nonconformi~ g propert~ may be continued,
subjec~ w the following provisions:
(1) Use of nonconforming structores abandoned.for a period of six or more consecu-
five months located on a nonconformb~g property shall not be permitted until the
property is brought into compliance, with the requirements of a compatible
proper~y.
(2)
Except as otherwise provided herein, there may be a change Of ~enancy or
ownership ora nonconforming property, Without the loss of nenconforming stat-as,
if use of the nonconforming structures is not abandoned for a period of six or more
consecutive months.
LDC21:21
§ 54-4-21-~.9 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(3) Colors of a structure located on a nonconforming proper~y shall not be changed
from those existing at the time of the adoption of these special regulations, unless
the new, to-be-painted colors comply with the Riverfrent Distriot special Color
regulations.
(4) Projecm on nonconforming properties requiring a building permit (excluding
permits for roofs or nnnor repairs) shall be required to bring the property into
compliance as a "compatible proper~y."
(5) A structure located.on a nonconforming property shall not be enlarged or
increased in any way from its lawful size at the time of the .adoption of these
specL~ regulations. Where such changes are made, a bu/~di~ permit and
compliance with the requirements of a "compatible preperty" are required for the
enlargement or addition.
DIVISION B. CR§12 OVERLAY DISTRICT REGULATIONS
Sec. 54-4-2LB.1. Intent.
As a significant business and residential center and a major entranceway into the City of
Sebastian, the corridor will have an attractive, well maintained, orderly and uncluttered
appearance. The corridor will be characterized by impressive vegetation and landscaping;
complementary buildings and signs with e~h~nced designs and aesthetic appearances; and a
safe transportation system that accommoda~as mass transit, pedestri~n~, bicycles, and other
transportation alternatives, as well as automobiles.
Sec. 54-4-21.B.2. Boundaries of the CR 512 Corridor.
The boundaries, of the CR 512 Overlay District shall'include all the properties which abut
CR 512 and that are located within the city ]~m~tS of the City of Sebastian. If any additional
segments of CR 512 are subsequently duly ~nnexed into the city, land devalopmen~ along the
said newly annexed segment shall be consistent With the city's land development cede,
including this article. In the CR 512 Overlay Districts the following special regulations and
exemptions shall apply ~o new development and redevelopment.
Sec. 54-4-21,B.3, Architectural/building standards.
(a) Prohibited architectural styles. The following are prohibited:
(1) Corporate signature or commercial proto~rpe architecture, unless such is consistent
with these special corridor requirements. Examples of such prohibited architecture
include fiat roofed convenience stores, gas stations, and canopms for gas stations, car
washes, and drive through facilities.
(2) Any kitsch architecture (such as a building that does not resemble a typical structure),
including structures or elements that resemble an exaggerated plant, fish, edible food,
or other such items such as giant oranges, ice cream cones, dinosaurs.
LDC21:22
PERFORMANCE OVEPJ.~Y DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21.B.3
(3)
Any architecture having a thematic reference that is so different from current design
philOSophy that such reference is inconsistent and/or incompatibl~ with surrounding
structures. Examples of such include: Igloos, domes or geodesic domes, quonset style
structures, teepees, log cabins, western "false fronts", medieval castles, caves, and the
hke.
; (b) Special provisions.
(1) Industrial and storage uses in commercial and industrial districts.. Compliance shall
be required only for those facades fi~nting on residentially designated areas or public
or platted roads. However, industrial buildings shaHsatisfy the color requirements.
(2) Residentially designated properties. The following materials are approved for use in
residentially designated areas: fiberglass or asphalt shingle-style roo~n5 for sloped
roofs and visible roof structures, and textared plywood as a finish product. Rooftop
screening devices Shall not be r~quiredfor .attic vent~laters or plumbing roof vents on
residentially designated properties. However, roof ventilators, roof vents, and the like
shall be located where they will be least visible from roadways.
(3) Shopping.centers and ou~-parcels. The materials, exterior ~ni.~hes, signage and colors
of shopping centere and structures developed on shopping cente~ ousparcels shall be
compatible and harmonious with each other as determined by which structures are
developed, first. This requirement may be w~ived by the plsnnlng and growth
management department if:
a. The initial shopping osn~er or outparcel was built prior to the enactment of the
CR 512, special regulations; and
b. It is determined by the planning .and growth management department that
enforcement Of ~ requirement would ~on~ict with ~he intent of these CR 512
special requirements.
Electrical subststious and .~ml]ar uses. Electrical substations and slmiler uses that
prohibit access by the public into the site may be exempted from all architectural/
building requirements by the planning and growth management director if the
exempted building(s) and equipment will be visually screened from adjacent properties
and roadways.
(c) General design criteria.
(1) Buildings with facades fronting on more than one street shall have similar design
considerations (e.g. roof ~reatment, building articulation, entrance features, and
window placement) and consistent detsillng on all s~reet frontages.
(2) General prohibitions and reetrictiens:
a. Flat, blank, unarticulated, or'maes~ve facades fronting on a roadway, exclusive
access drive or residentially designated areas are prohibited. Facades fronting
such roads, drives, or areas shall be designed to incorporate architectuxal
elements providing breaks in the planes of exterior walls and/or roofs to
LDC21:23
§ 54-4-21.B.3 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
articulate the building and te lessen the appearance of excessive mass. Facades
should incorporate elements relating to human scale, and can be divided by use
at proportional expression of structure, openings, arcades, canopies, fenestration,
changes in materials, cornice details, molding details, changes .in the heights of
different sect/oas of the building, and the like (stepping or sloping of a parapet
wall in conjunction with a low sloped r%fis prohibited). Flat, bJnnlr, unarticalated,
or massive facades will be permitted On the sides of a building when'building is
constructed to the allowable zero foot side setback.
b. The following mate/ials or systems are prohibited as a finish' and/or exposed
produc~: corrugated or ribbed metal panels, smooth finish concrete block (stan-
dard concrete masonry units), precast concrete tee systems, plyw~ad or ~ext~rad
plywood: Plywood shall be allowed for soffit material.
c. Any canopy (such as for a gas station, car Wash, or drive-through facility) that is
wholly or.partially within 75 feet of a thoroughfare plan road right-of-way shall
meet 'the following requirements concerning m~Yimum. 'fascia height (This
pertains to all fascia on the above described canopy including an~.canopy fascia
that continues beyond the 75~foot ]imlt.):
Roof Slope Distance Maximum Fascia Height
Le~s than I0 feet 8 inches
10 to 20 feet 12 inches
Greeter than 20 feet 16 inches
Plastic or metal is prohibited as a finish material for walls or trim. Plas//c is
prohibited as a ~ni~h mater/a] for sloped roofs, visible roof'structures, and
fascias. AlthoUgh prohibited in general, certain metal and plastic construction
product~ may be approved by the planning and zonin~ commission, upon a
written request and.product sample submitted by the applicant. The planning
and zoning cowmi~sion may approve use of the material if the following criteria
are satisfied:
i. The product shall appear authentic fi~m the closest distance that it will be
viewed bythe general public.
ii. The product shall be substantial. Thin and ~imsy imitations are unaccept-
able.
iii. The product shall hold up as well as the product it is imitating. That is, it
must be fabricated in such a way that it will retain its original shape,
appearance, and color, as well as the product it is imitating.
iv. The product's color shall resemble the color of the product it is imitating.
Any exposed masonry in a stack bond is prohibited.
Lighting structures or strip lighting that follows the form of the building, par~s of
the building, or building elements i~ prohibited.
LDC21:24
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY D~STRICTS
§ 64-4-21.B.3
g. Neon lighting, fiber optics or similar systems, which exceed six square feet in
area, and where the neon tube, fiber optic or similar system is visible from'the
outsi~e is prohibited. NeOn lighting,.fiber optics and similar systems.shaltnot be
used for outlining the building including the windows.
h. Bacldit transparent or translucent.architectural elements, bacldit architectural
elements, as well'as illuminated or back[it awnings.and roof mounted elements
are prohibited. This does not prohibit the use of glass' blocks. This does not
prohibit the use of an illuminated sign attached to a building:
i. Facades that appear to be primarily awnlugsare prohibited: An awning Shall not
run continuously for more than 30%. of the length of any single facade. Placement
of awning segments shall relate to building features (e.g. doorways and windows),
where possible. ,~wnings shall not exceed 25% of the area of any single facade.
j. Drive-up windows shall not be located on a building facade that faces a
residential area or a roadway unless architecturally integrated into the bul]di,~g
and screened by landscaping equivalent te the landscape material required in'a
local road buffer and must run the length, of the drive-through lane.. Speakers
shall be oriented so as not to project sound toward residential, areas.
k. Accessory structures, including sheds, out-buildings, dumpster enclosures, and
screening structures, shall match the. style, finish, and color of the Site's main
building. Metal utility sheds and temporary car canopies are prohibited.
(d) Roofs and parapets:
(1)
Sloped roofs. Gable, hip, and shed style roofs'shall have s slope ne less than 5!12
(rise:run): Mansard Style roofs with a slope greater than 30:12 (risemun) are prohib-
ited. Generous eaves on sloped roofs are encouraged~ Any roof with a slope less than
5:12 (rise:run) ("Iow sloped roof') shall not be visible from a roadway and/or residen-
tinlly designated area. Low sloped roofs must be screened with a visibleroof strusture
or parapet wall.
(2)
Visible roof structures. Visible roof structures shall be ~f such height, bulk, and mass,
so as to appear s~ructural, even where 'the design is non-strUctural and 'shall have a
minimum vertical rise Gf six feet (not including fascia), lr~sible roof StructUres shall
have a slope no less than 5:12 (rise:run). Mansard style visible roof structures with a
slope greater than 10:12 (rise:run) are prohibited. Where Visible roof structures are
utilized in a building design, they shall be continuous around all sides of the structure,
except where incorporated with a parapet wall or other architectural element (this
does not allow !'stuck-on" roofs). Any facade that is not visible fi~om a roadway,
exclusive access drive or residentially designated.area, such as facades that' are
interior to a tightly spaced compound of buildings, will not require a continuous visible
roof structure on that' facade. Any building.with less than 3,500 square feet of ground
floor area shall have a visible roof strucrare an all facades.
LDC21:25
§ 54-4-21.B.3 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMEiNT CODE
(3) The following roof styles are prohibited~ "A-frame," bowstring, dome, gambrel, non-
symmetricel gable or hip (diff~ent slope on each side of ridge), quonset, and
polynesian. Gable or hip roof with up to a 10:'12 (rise:run) m,~m,,m pitch with a
"skirted" or "flared" lower portion at a' 3:12 (rise:run) mini~o,,m pitch is allowed.
(4) The ridge or plane of a roof (or visible roof sumct~re), that runs parallel (or slightly
parallel) with a roadway stiall no~ run. continuous for more than 100 feet without
offsetting or jogging (vertically or horizontally) the roof ridge or plane'a mlnlvnum of 16
inches. Low sloped roofs and parapet walls are excluded from this 'requirement.
(5) Roofing on.sloped.roofs and visible roof structures shall be llmlled to the fonowing
systems:
a. Cedar' shingles or shakes, slate,, clay tile,.or cement tile.
b. Steel, copper, and factory painted a],,mlnum sta~dlng seam roofing.
c. 5-V crimp roof.
Galvanized metal or copper shingles of¥ictorian or diamond shape or pattern.
Three dimensional fiberglass or asphalt shingle.
Architectural standing seam roofs shall be limited to the following systems: fiat metal
panels with narrow raised seArna running 12 to 20 inches apart, which are secured
with continuous seam covers or mechanically seamed. Light and natural colors, as well
as mill finish metal roofs are encouraged. Mi~ng colors of metal panels is prohibited.
Roofs on s_ny one site shall be of one color.
(6) Roofing materials are prohihited for use as a finish material on parapexs or any surface
with a slope greater than 10:12 (rise.w~n) up to and including vertical surfaces. This
pertains only to those surfaces visible from adjacent proper~y, exclusive of access drives
or roadways. This does not exclude the use of metal fascia six inches or less in height,
use of typical metal flashing, wall cap, drip edge, and the like, use of roofing.materials
as a screening device (as long as it does not.function .as a building"s parapet), and use
of cedar' shingles or shakes as a wall material used below the roof line.
(7) Plastic or metal roof panels or systems, corrugated or ribbed roof panels, hot mopped
sysr~ns, built-up, gravel, torched on foam or fluid applied, roll or membrane roofing,
and the like are prohibited on any roof which is visible from any roadwa~ and/or
residentially designated area. This does not exclude the use of architectural standing
seem metal roofing or gelvainzed 5-¥ crimp metal roofing. Use of metel or plastic
tooUng materials may be approved as specified under the section as fi~ish materials
for walls, fasciai and trim.
(8) Partial parape~ walls are prohibited. If a parape~ wall is used. on a building, then a
parapet wall of the same style and material is to be.centinuous around all sides of the
structure, except where 'incorporated with a visible roof structure or other architec-
tural element. Introduction of any visible roof sumcture shall no~ appear "fake."' Any
LDC21:26
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 5~ ~ 21.B.3
facade that is not visible from a roadway and/or residentially designated area shall not
require a continuous parapet wall on ~h~ facade. Stepping or e/opin~ of a parapetwall
in conjunction with a low sloped roof is prohibited.
(e) Sit~ elements:
,(1) All telephones, vending machines, or any facility dispensing merchandise or a service
on private property sh~ll be conSued to a space built into the building.or buildings, or
enclosed, in a separam s~ructure compatible with..the main buiJdlng's architecture.
These areas are to be designed with the safety of the user in mind. Public phones and
ATMs should have 24-hoar access.
(2) No advertising will. be allowed on any exposed amenity or facility Such es benches or
trash containers.
(3) When feasible, e~isting specimen Zreee should be preserved' in place er relocated on
site. Use of tree .wells, as well as adaptation and variations of siting in order ~o
conserve native vegetation, is encouraged.
(4) ~he.uee of thematic and decorative site' lighting is encouraged. Low lights~ of a modest
scale can be used along with feature lighting that emphasizes plante, trees, entrances,
and exits. Light bo]lards are encouraged along pedestrian paths. The color of the light
sources (lamp) should be consistent throughout the project. Color of site lighting
1,,*-inarles, poles, and the like shall be l~mi~:I to dark bronze, blacl~ or.dark green
~(decerative fixtures attached to bu~dln~s ere exempt fi'om the fixture color require-
menr).
Lighting m nor to be used as a form of advertising or in a m-nner ttmt draws
considerably more attention to the building or grounds at night than in the day. Site
lighting shall be designed r~ direct light into the properZy. Lighting shall avoid uny
,nnoyance ~o the neighbors from brightness or glare.
Roadway s~yle ]-m~n~es (fixtures) such as cobra heads, Nema heads, and the like are
prohibited. Wall pads and flood light ],mln~ries are prohibited where the light source'
would be visible from a roadway, parking area and/or residentially designated area.
High. intensity discharge (e.g. high pressure sodium, metal halide, mercury vapor,
~rrgsten halogen) lighting fixtures mounted on buildings and poles higher than 18 feet
above the parking, lot grade, and under canopies, shall be directed perpendicular to the
ground. Other than.decorative and iow level/low height lighting, no light source or lens
shall project above or be/ow a fixture, box, shield, or canopy.
(f) Screening devices~
(1) ~Srmually offensive elements", whether freestanding, mounted on roofs, or anywhere on
a structure, shall be concealed from view. on all sides. '~r~sually offensive elements"
consist.of: W,]l~-in coolers/freezers, transformers, electrical eqmpmen~ (including
panels and me~ers), water or waste piping and valves, pumps, fans, ~hanst vents,
compressors, generators, t~nlr~ and sim~]ar equipment. Individual screens, building
elements, or appropriate landscaping, are to be used to completely screen the offensive
LDC21:27
§ 54-4-21.B.3 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(2)
(3)
(4)
elements. Parapet walIs, visible roof structures, individual screens, or building
elements, are to be used To completely screen roof mounted, visually offensive
elements. They are to be screened from view from any point around the entire building
perimeter. Screening devices shall relate to the building~s style of architecture and
materials. All screening devices shall be designed so that no part of the offensive
element extends beyond the'~ep of the screen, measured horizontally. Rooi~p screen-
lng devices win not be required for plumbing roofvente which are less than four inches
in diameter and less than 12 inches above roof penetratien. These reofvents should be
located where :they will be least visible from roadways. Where chain ]ink or similar
fencing is allowed' to be used (e.g., around storm water ponds), such fencing shall be
green or black and shall be located and landscaped so as to visually screen the fencing
from public view.
'~Nuisance elements" shall' be visually screened from adjacent .roadways and/or
residentiany designated areaS with solid walls in addition to any required landscaping.
Loading dock buffering shall meet standards.of the landscape ordinance (article XIV).
All other w~ll, shall be a ~im,~m of six feet'in height. All dumpster and trash
container areas shall be completely screened on all sides. Acoustical meterinl shall be
used on the inside face of walls around HVAC equipment.
Individual screens and walls sh~ll relate' to' the buildin~o~s style, of architecture and
materials, A durable material such as reinforced concrete .masonry units is recom-
mended with an architecturally compatible finish. Wood 'fences are encouraged.
Chain llnlr fencing, with or' without slats, is' prohibited as a screening device for
screening visually offensive elements and nuisance elements.
Sec. 54.4-21.B.4. Colors and building graphics.
(a) The following building graphics are prohibited. Polka dots, circles,, vertical stripes,
diagonal stripes or linee, plaids, ~-,imals, and symbols such as lightmng bolts. Hbwever, legally
registered tradem-~ks which directly relate to the buildIng occupant (nor trademarks of
products or services sold or dispIayed) are allowed, subject to applicable sign and color
regulations.
(b) Color standards, All buildings and accessory sU'uc~tree within the CR-512 Overlay
District shall be limited to the colors listed in the Overlay Districts master color list.
(1) Base building colorS. Base building colors relate to wall and parapet wall areas and
shall be limited to colors censist4.ng ofwhito and light neutral colors In the warm range.
(2) Secondary building colors. Secondary building colors relate to larger trim areas and
shall not exceed 30% of the area of any one building facade elevation. These colors
consist of a mid-renge intensity of'the base building colors and complementary colors,
and include all base building colors.
(3) Trim colors. Trim colors are used for accent of smaller trim areas, are the brightest
group of colors allowed, and include all base building and secondary building colors.
LDC21:28
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§54~21.B.5
Use of metallic dolors (i.e.: gold, silver, bronze, chrome, and other extraordinarily
bright colors) and use of garish colors, such as fluorescent colors (e.g, hot pink~.
shoc~-/ug yellow), is prohibited. Trim colors shall not exceed tan percent of the surface
area of any one building facade elevation.
'14) Roof colors (requirements for roofs that are visible from a roadway and/or residentiany
designated area). These colors consist of natural'mill finish, white, light neutral colors
in. the warm range, blue,' and a ]imlted number of em'th-tone colors. Mixing or
alternating colors of metal panels is prohibited. For non,metal roofs, other than
natural variations in color or color blends within a tile, the mi~,g or alternating of
roof color in the same roof material is prohibited. Colors and color blends shall not be
contrary to the intent of this COde. Color for roofing which is glared, slurry, coated, or
artificially Colored on' the surface by any other means shall be limited to the same
colors as approved for metal roofs.
(5) Natural ~ui~h materials. The color regiments listed above shall not apply to the colors
of true natural finish materials such as brick, stone, t~rra cotta, concrete roof tiles,
slate, integrally colored concrete masonry units, copper, and wood. Color commonly
found in natural materials are acceptable, unless such material has been artificially
Colored in a m~nnor which would be' contrary to the intent of. these requirements.
Black, gray, blue, or extremely dark colors for brick, concrete masonry ,~nlts, roofing,
wood or stone is prohibited. This provision shall not prohibit the Use of colors for
natural finish roofing materials tliat match those colors approved for metal roofsl
(6) Awning colors. Awning colors may include base building colors and/or secondary
building colors and/or trim colors. However, secondary building colors and trim color
area used for awnings shall be included in the percentage limitation on the secondary
building color and trim color surface area of a facade.
(7) Overlay District-master color list. The Overlay Districts master Color list and approved
color board shall be maintained and made available by the pin~ni,g and growth
management staff. The list can be marled or foxed upon request:
Sec. 54-4.21.B.5. Landscaping.
The city landscaping requirements of art/de XI~ apply' except as noted herein.
(a)
Increased canopy.rree size. All canopy trees required under normal landscaping and
buffering reqmrements and special CR 512 corridor plan requirements for projects
within the curddor shall have a minimum height of 12 feet and minimum spread of six
feet at time of planting. Palm tree clusters may be used as canopy trees as specified in
the landscape ordinance. However, such p~lm trees shall have a minimum, c]eo~r trunk
of 12 feet.
(b)
CR 512 and thoroughfare plan road buffer V¢ithin the corrkIor plan area, the fonowing
landscape barfer shall be provided, along the entire length of a site's CE 512 frontage,
except for approved driveways:
LDC21:29
§ 54-4-2LB.5 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
Minimum Planting /~erm
CR-512 Frontage. Buffer Depth Requirements per 100'
Over 400 feet 10 feet 5 canopy treas- ·
6 Underetory trees
Continuous hedge~: 2.5-3 feet high'at Plant.
mg ·
Berm: 1'-1.5' high~'
250 to 400 feet 10 feet 4.5 Canopy trees .
5.5 UndersterY trees
Continuous hedge~: 1~5-2.5 feet high at plant-
Berm~ 1.5'-2.5' high
Less than 250 feet 10 feet 4 Canopy trees ·
5 Understory trees
Continuous hedge~: 1.5-2~5 feet high at plant-
mg
(c)
~ NOTE: The hedge and berm combination shall provide a visual screen four feet high
above the grade of the project site parlr~g areal Hedge material shall provide
screening to the ground; therefore, a rely of myrtles and shrubs with ~im~lar las_~mg
characteristics shall nothe used for hedge material ~mless a double row arrangement
is used. At the time of a cert-~ficate of occupancy (CO) for the project site, the
combination ofberm~ng and hedging shall provide a four-foot visual screen, subjec~
city sight.distance requirements. Undulations in the berm and corresponding hedge
height are encoaraged:
Hedge shrubs shull be planted no further apart than 24 inches on cen~er along the
length of the buffer strip, to form a hedge f~mt appears continuous as ~iewed from the
roadway being buffered. '
Berms shall have a slope no steeper than three horizontal to one vertical, and shall be
continuous along the length of the buffer strip, except where berm m0di~c~tions
be necessary for tree preservation as determined by the planning and growth
management director or his designee. ·
Clustering of trees along the buffer strip is encouraged, and un~form spacing of trees
is discouraged, except where used to emphasizea particular planting theme or
development style. Hedge plantings may be asymmet~cal, and ~ buffer Wall not to.
exceed four feet in height except 'as specified below, is allowed within .the middle
one-third of the buffer strip'sl width (measured perpendicular te the road being
buffere~i) if landscaping matar~al is planted on each side of the wall.
Special buffer for multifamily projects. Multif~mily projects sl4all provide' the. CR512
and. theroaghfare plan road buffer as described above, With the additional requirement'
that the buffer shall include a six-foot opaque screen consistent with specifications in
LDC21:30
i~'ERFOt~Rt~]'CE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 54-4-21.B.6
(d)
article XI-~. Where a wall or fence is used, such wall or fence shall'.be located with the
middle one-third of the buffer strip's width (measured perpendicular to the road being
buffed), and landscaping material shall be planted on each side of the wall or .fence.
Landscape islands. Landscape islands shall be backfilled at least to the. top of cnrb or
protective barrier, and may be bermed to a n~mum height of 24 inches above the
adjacent parking lot grade.
Sec, 54-4-21.B.6. Special sign regulations.
(a) Scope.. These special regulations are m addition to the citl~'s sign ordinance and shall
supersede any less restrictive provisions found in the sign ordinance. All signage shall comply
with the requirements of the sign ordinance except .as modified by these special sign
regulations.
(b) Approval or change Of sign design required. Any exterior change to CR .512 Overlay
District signage sh~]l require review and 'approval by the pl~nnlng and growth management
department. Such changes shall include, but not be 'llm~ted to, changes of sign area (square
footage),- sign copy area (square footage), sign copy (this. does nct apply to "changeable copy"
signage), height~ shape, style, location, colors, materials, or method of il),,~i,~ation. Routine
.maintenance and replacement of materials which does not.affect the approved design shall be
exempt from this review and approval. Changes to signs.not originally required to comply with
these'special sign regulations are addressed in the "nonconformi,~. signs" section of these
regulations.
(c) Prohibited s~'ns. The provisions stated herein are in addition ~o prohibitions' listed in
article XVI Signage and Advertising. The following are prohibited:
(1)
Lights or i]],,mlnations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker, or vary.in
intensity or color, except, for time-temperature-date signs. Public signs permitted
pursuant to article X'VI, Signage and Advertising provisions, are excluded from this
prohibition and are allowed.
(2)
Electronic message boards and message centers, electronic adjustable alternation
displays, or any sign that automatically displays words, numerals, and/or characters
in a pregr~mmed manner. Traffic regulator~ and directional signs permitted pursuant
to article XVI, Signage and Advertising prowsions, are excluded from this prohibition
and are allowed.
(3) Portable or trailer style changeable copy signs, excepting approved special event signs.
(4) Signs with the optical illusions of movement by means of a design that presents a
pattern capable of giving the illusion of motion or changing of copy,
(5) Strings ofllght bulbs used on nonresidential structures for Commercial purposes, otiier
than t~adit~anal holiday decorations at the apprepriate t~me of the year.
(6) Signs that emit audible sound, odor, or visible mat-ter, such as smokeor steam.
LDC21:31
§ 54-4-21.B.6 SEBASTIAN LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE
(7) Neon lighting, fiber optics or similar systemS, which exceed six square feet in area, and
where the neon tube, fiber optic or similar system is visible from theOutside m
prohibited. Neon lighting~ fiber optics and similar systems shall no~ be used for
outl~nlng the bnildi~g including the windows.
(8) Rough plywood used for permanent signs.
(9) Any material used in such a m~nner for'a permanent sign that results in a sign having
a semblence to the look of a ~emporary sign but intended by the owner to be
pemanent.
.(10) Installation 0fan additional sign (or signs) that does not'harmonize with the design or
materials ofth~ initial sign, such as:
a. Attachment or mounting of signs where mounting hardware is left exposed.
b. Signs with ~i~e~en~ color' cabinets, frames, or swuc~ure.
(11) Appliques or letters of vinyl and similar materials for use on any permanent
monument sign. They are also prohibited f0r use on any pemanen~ wallor facade
signs that exceed three square feet. Window signs as allowed in this article are
excluded from ~h~.~ prohibition. Regardless of size, appliques or vinyl letters are
prohibited for use on plastic sign faces.
Changeable copy signs'for office, industrial, commercial and residential uses, unless
such sign is incorporated wi~hi,~ the allowable monument sign area.
(d) Signs that are encouraged:
(1) Shaped and fashioned "wood look" multi-level signs (i.e.: sand blasted or carved), and
signs having durable sign cabinet material such as high-density polyurethane arid
PVC.
(2) internally ill,,mi~ated all,talcum cabinet with textured finish, and cutout inset or
push through acrylic letters,
(3) Back[it reverse pan channel letters [opaque.faced) mounted on sign that is harmonious
with the project's architecture.'
(4) Signage that relates.rn the buliding's style of architecture and materials.
(5) Thematic signage.
(e) Colors.
(1) The following colors are encouraged for. signage:
a. Use of earth-tone colors and pastels.
b. Darker backgrounds with light color sign copy.
c. Use of celors that match or are compatible with the project's architecture.
d. Polished or weathered true bronze, brass, or copper metal finishes are acceptable
and encouraged.
(12)
LDC21:32
PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
§ 5~- ~- 21.B.6
(2) The following colors are prohibited for signage:
a. The Use of bright metallic or mill flni~h colors (i.e., gold, silver, bronze, chrome,
aluminum, stainless steel, or other extraordinarily bright colors). Colors such as
medium or dark bronze are acceptable snd encouraged. Precious metal colors are
allowed on sand blasted or carved '~vood look" style signs.
b. The use of garish colers,.such as fluorescent colors, is prohibited.
(f) Multi. tenant spaces: Applicants of proposed multi-tenant projects, such as shopping
cenmrs, out parcels, industrial complexes and parks, and office complexes, and parks, shall
submit a s~gn program for review and approval. This sign program shall communicate the
coordination and consistency of design, colors, materials, in,,mination, and locations of
signage. In a multi-tenant project Where no established p.a~ern exists as described above, the
owner ofthe.multi-tsnant project shall be required to submit a sign program for approval prior
to issuance of any new sign permits for a tenant space.
(g) Design cr/ter/a and additional restrictions.
(1) Freestanding changeable copy signs. Where allowed, e t~eestanding changeable copy
sign shsil not comprise more than 80% of the total area of the actual sign.
(2) Wall/facade signage.
· a. The m~m~n vertical dimension of a facade or wall sign shall nor exceed 25% of
the building height.
b. Awnings with lettering shall be considered wall signs. Where lettering is used on
an awning, the area of lettering shah be included in the percentage ]imitation of
a project's sign area.
c. Lettering, lagos, and trim colors on canopy fascia shall be considered a wall sig-~
and shall be limited to 33% of the fascia area of any one elevation. Internally
ilb~mlnated signs shall not be placed on. a canopy'sumcture, and no.sign shall be
placed above the fascia en a canopy structure.
(3) Changeable copy wall signs for theaters. Theaters may utilize up to 80% of actual sign
area for display of names of ~lms, plays or other performancee currently showing.
(4) Ilivm~natlen.'A]l external flood sign ili~ mlrlation shall be mounted at grade, directly in
front of the sign area. Light source shall be completely shielded, from oncoming
motorisl~s view.
(h) Nonconforming signs: It is the intent of this section r~ allow nonconforming signs
permitted before the adoption of this cede to continue until they are no longer used, or become
hazardous, but nor ~o encourage their survivall Such s~gns are hereby declared co be
incompatible with.the overall intont of this section.
(1) Removal of nonconforming signs: AIl nonconforming Slgl]S, excep~ as p~ovided for
herein, shall be removed.
LDC21:33
§ 54-4-2LB.6 SEBASTIAN LAND.DEVELOPMENT CODE
(2) Continuance of nonconforming signs: A nonconforming sign may be continued, subject
to'the following provisions:
a. A. nonconforming sign shall not be enlarged or increased in auy way from its
lawful size. at the time of the adoption of this code.
b. Nonconforming signs or nonconforraing sign structures that. are defined as
abandoned signs shall, not be permitted for reuse,
c. Excel~ as otherwise provided herein, there may be a ch~ngn of .tenancy or
ownership of a nonconforming sign, without the loss of nonconforn~ing status, if
the proper~y is not abandoned,
(3) Repairs; maintenance, and improvements: Normal repairs, maintenance; andimpro~,e-
ments may be made.
(4) Reconstruction: If any nonconformi~ sign is destroYed by fire, flood, explosion,
collapse, wind, or other catastrophe, it shall not be used or reconstructed eXcept.in full
conformity with the provisions of these special regulations.
(5) Casual, temporary, 0r illegal'use: the casual, temporary, or illegal tree of any sign sh~ll
not be Sufficient to establish the existence of a nonconformlrx§ use or to create any
rights in the continuance of such use.
Sec; ~4-4-21.B.7. Nonconformities.
Vfxthin the CR.512 District area, legally established existing development and uses that do
not comply with these special regulations are grandfathered in. An nonconforming uses and
structures'are .governed by article VIII. in addition, within'the CR 512 District area the
following nonconformity regulations shall apply:
(a) Nor~onforrning property: It is the intent of ~.hi~ chapter to allow nonconforming
properties to continue, but also encourage their conformity to what extent is possible
considering the exist/ng site conditions and ~haracteristics. A "compatible property"
shall be considered in compliance with the intent of the CR 512 District special
regulations.
(b) Continuance of nonconforming property: Anonconfor~ing property may be continued.
subject to ~he' following prowsions:
(1) Use of nonconforming structures abandoned for a period of six or more consecu-
tive months located on a nonconforming property shall not be permitted until the
property is brought into compliance with the requirements of a compatible
property.
(2) Excep~ as otherwise provided herein, there may be a change of tenancy, or
ownership Of a nonconformlng property, without the loss 0f nanconforming s~ams,
ifase of the nonconforming structures is not abandoned for a period.of six or more
consecutive months.
LDC21:34
PERFOR~ANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS § 5~D4-21.B.7
(3) Colors of a structure located on a nonconforming property shall not be changed
from those existing at the time of the adoption ofthase special regulations, unless
the new, to-be-painted colors comply with the CR 512 special color regulations.
(4) Projects on nonconform/ng properties requiring a bui]~-~ permit (exclo~in~
permits for roofs or minor repairs) shall be required to bring the property into
compliance as a "compatible proper~y."
(5) /k structure located on a nonconforming property shall not be enlarged or
increased in say way from its lawful size at the t/me of'the adoption of these
special' regulations. Where such changes are made, s building permit sad
compliance with the requirements ora "compatible property" are required for the
enlargemen~ or addition.
LDC21:35
CRA Master Plan Appendix
Appendix E
Economic Analysis
Sebastian, Florida
Page 48 of 49
12-3-03
September 23, 2003
Mr. Henry tier
Iler Planning Group
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Dear Mr. lief:
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. (MEAl) has performed analysis to determine the
market forces that will provide the basis for redevelopment activity within the portions of
the City of Sebastian that have been designated for redevelopment under the provisions
of F.S Chapter 163, Part III. The defined redevelopment areas include the portion of the
City considered to be its Downtown, which is located between the Indian River and the
Florida East Coast Railway right-of-way. They also include the land immediately west of
the railroad tracks within the fork of County Road (C.R.) 512 and south of southern tine
of fork.
The purpose of this letter, which is organized in the manner outlined immediately below,
is to provide you with the results of our analysis.
Section Page
Analytical Procedures 1
Summary of Key Findings 2
Market Demographics 4
5
Employment
Historic Development Activity
Redevelopment Potentials 8
Housing 8
Hospitality Use 9
Retail Use 10
Office Use 10
Industrial Use 10
11
Conclusion
Analytical Procedures
In order to assess the market forces that will impact redevelopment within the City of
Sebastian, MEAl performed the following analytical procedures:
Mr. Henry lief
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 2
Surveyed the defined redevelopment areas described above to evaluate the
nature and quality of their existing development as well as their physical
characteristics;
Met with you and the other members of the consulting team you have
assembled to prepare a Redevelopment Plan for the areas described above to
discuss the attributes of those areas that could potentially benefit or inhabit the
redevelopment process;
Reviewed relevant secondary source socio-economic data for the City .of
Sebastian proper and the broader Sebastian Market Area as well as Indian
River County;
Reviewed data relating development activity that has occurred in the City of
Sebastian and the Sebastian in recent years;
· Spoke to officials of the City of Sebastian including the City Manager and
members of the City's Growth Management Department;
· Interviewed realtors and other knowledgeable about the City's economy and real
estate market; and
· Reviewed the minutes of the "stakeholder" interviews conducted by Iler Planning
Group.
Key Market Findings
The bulleted paragraphs that follow summarize the key findings of MEAl's analysis. For
the purpose of our analysis, the "Sebastian Market Area" was defined to include the City
of Sebastian and the unincorporated areas surrounding it within Zip Code 32958. It also
includes other nearby unincorporated areas such as Vero Lakes Estates as well as the
portion of the barrier island lying noah of Wabasso Road. While in-flow into the market
can be expected from areas outside that just defined, MEAl believes that the
redevelopment will be primarily defined by the market forces at work within the defined
Sebastian Market Area.
Review of the tax rolls for Downtown Sebastian reveals that the between Fiscal
Years 2001 and 2004 the taxable value of property contained therein increased
from $45.83 million to $66.17 million. While a portion of the increase was due to
the record levels of appreciation experienced by real property generally in recent
years, it also indicates that the area is positively perceived by the market and that
some amounts of new development have been occurring even in the absence of
a formal redevelopment plan.
· The Sebastian Market area is characterized by strong growth in terms of
population and income. Between now and 2010, population within the area is
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 6861 $.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
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Mr. Henry iler
ller Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 3
expected to increase by approximately 4 percent a year with the result that the
area should have about 45,000 residents by the latter date compared to the
slightly more than 32,600 it had at the time of the 2000 Census. Median
household income is expected to increase from approximately $52,500 in 2000 to
in excess of $75,000 in 2010. It should be noted that income vades greatly
throughout the Market Area with the households on the north end of the barrier
island as a group being considerably more affluent than those on.the mainland.
From a retail perspective, this makes it essential that island households be made
to a feel a part of the Sebastian community.
During the 1990's, private sector employment in Indian River County increased
by approximately 1,000 workers on an average annual basis. Specific data for
the Sebastian Market Area is not available. Pdvate sector employment within the
County --- also apparently within the Market Area --- is dominated by the Retail
Trade, Health Care Services and Leisure and Hospitality sectors. Manufacturing
and Wholesale Trade, which are the prototypical users of industrial space, are
significantly smaller employment sectors and not growing at significant rates. As
a result the small amounts of industrial space added since 1998 have primarily
been occupied by service establishments such a repair shops. There has also
been only minor amounts of office development because with the exception of
Health Care Services, the sectors of the economy that typically use such space
like Finance, Insurance and Real Estate and Professional Services have also not
being growing quickly.
MEAl estimates that there will be demand for between 600 and 700 new
residential units in the Market Area annually though 2010. Historically, residential
demand for new residential units within Sebastian has been overwhelmingly
oriented toward single-family homes, which would be inappropriate in the
Downtown area. The area is essentially zoned to accommodate Iow density
multi-family units such as townhouses. MEAl believes that approximately 50 such
higher value -- $200,000 and above --- units could be absorbed annually along
the dverfrent if the land were available. We recommend that such development
be particularly encouraged to occur along the portion of the dverfront south of
Main Street where it would benefit from proximity to Riverfront Park while, in turn,
serving to energize the park. The preceding estimate of absorption is based on a
number of factors including:
o The successful development of multi-family units on the barder island's
riverfront; and
A segmentation analysis of the market that should that a significant
portion of prospective demand will be comprised of households headed
by persons over the age of 55 with incomes in excess of $75,000.
MEAl also believes that higher value residential development of the townhouse
type should be encouraged in the portion of the area targeted for redevelopment
that is located within the C.R. 512 fork. Residential units developed on this
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 686t S.W. 89th Terrace Mlami~ Florida 33156
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Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
SePtember 23, 2003
Page 4
property could also potentially benefit from excellent water views. MEAl is aware
that this area is in relatively close proximity to the FEC right-of-way; however,
development of the type proposed has been successfully undertaken in locations
equally close the FEC line in the Cities of Boynton Beach and Delray Beach in
Palm Beach County. In fact, the opportunity to buffer the proposed development
from the impacts of rail traffic is greater in this instance than in those other
locations.
It is recognized that property within the C.R. 512 fork is currently zoned for
industrial uses but MEAl believes that sufficient land for ali foreseeable industrial
development within the redevelopment target area exists south of C.R. 512. It is
also our opinion, based on data relating to recent sales of industrial land in the
area, re-designation of the land within the fork, inclusive of the parcel that the
City will soon be disposing of, would produce higher land values than its current
designation.
As a result of the population and income growth already discussed, MEAl
estimates that the Sebastian Market Area could support the development of
approximately 100,000 square feet or new retail space annually through 2010. It
is recommended that up to 150,000 square feet of this space be encouraged to
occur in the vicinity of Rive~ront Park and be designed for specialty shops and
restaurants. Such development should serve as a catalyst for the higher value
townhouse development in the area south of Main Street previously discussed. It
could also serve to attract residents of the harder island to Downtown Sebastian.
Based on our understanding of the economy of Sebastian, MEAl does not
believe that office development will play a significant role in redevelopment. We
also believe that the demand for new hospitality uses will be modest.
Market Demographics
The bulleted paragraphs that follow describe the demographic composition of the
Sebastian Market Area.
During the 1990's, the population of the State of Florida increased at an average
annual rate approximating 2.4 percent per year, which was substantially higher
than the national rate of growth of 1.3 percent. The population of Indian River
County, in which the Sebastian Market Area is located, increased at any even
faster rate, 2.5 percent, than that of the State on an average annual basis.
Of the 112,947 residents of Indian River County at the time of 2000 Census,
32,614 of them -- 29 percent --- lived in the Sebastian Market Area. As shown in
Table 1 in the Appendix to this letter, the rate of population growth in the
Sebastian Market Area during the 1990's was nearly 4 percent, or 1.6 times the
County's strong rate of growth. Based on the fact that this rate of growth is
Miami Economic Associates~ Inc. 6861 S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tel: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305) 669-8534 Email: meaink@bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 5
already expected to be maintained through 2007, MEAl believes that by 2010,
the population of the Sebastian Market Area should approximate 45,000 people.
The population of the Sebastian Market Area at the time of the 2000 Census was
distributed in 14,505 households. The average household contained 2.25
persons. The relatively small household size reflected the fact that the over 40
percent of Market Area households were headed by individuals 65 years of age
or older, as shown in Table 2 of the Appendix.. Based on projections for the year
2007, MEAl expects that the age profile of household heads will be somewhat,
but not significantly, younger by 2010. The highest concentration of households
headed by people of retirement age households is located on the northern end of
the barrier island where the median age of the residents is currently estimated to
be 59.2 years. In contrast, the median age of Veto Lakes Estates residents
approximates 35.
Median household income also varies significantly within the Sebastian Market
Area depending on location. Illustratively, the median income of households
living in the mainland portion of the Market Area is currently estimated to
approximate $41,760 while that of the households' on the barrier island is
estimated to be in excess of $84,250. As shown in Table 3 of the appendix, on
an overall basis the median income of households in the Sebastian Market Area
currently exceeds $55,500, which is considerably greater than that countywide.
Countywide the median income approximates $40,000.
Based on the income estimates provided in Table 3 for 2007, MEAl anticipates
that the projected 20,300 households in the Sebastian Market Area in 2010 will
have a median income on an overall basis exceeding $75,000. The median
income of the mainland households will approximate $56,000 while that of the
households living on the barrier island will exceed $116, 500.
The income figures discussed in the preceding two paragraphs indicate that from
an economic prospective it is important to have the residents of the northern
portion of the barrier island identify with Sebastian. In fact, in terms of potential
buying power, they will represent at least 44 percent of the market in 2010. To
the extent that current year income does not reflect the full buying power of a
group that is comprised substantially of retirees, their importance could even be
greater.
Employment
The bulleted paragraphs that follow discuss the characteristics of employment in Indian
River County and to the extent possible, based on the data available, within the
Sebastian Market Area.
· The employment data issued by the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation is
complied at only the County level. That data indicates that approximately 42,670
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Mr. Henry iler
ller Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 6
people were employed within indian River County on an average monthly basis
dudng 2002. The private sector accounted for slightly over 37,000 of the total
jobs with various agencies of government at the Federal, State and local
providing the remainder of the jobs.
In terms of private sector employment, Retail Trade and Health Care Services
accounted for 33.3 percent of total jobs, employing 7,581 and 6,601 workers,
respectively. Leisure and Hospitality Services accounted for an additional 5,653
jobs, or 13.2 percent of total employment. As shown in Table 4, other sectors of
economic activity employing more than 2,000 workers included, in order of
importance, Professional and Business Services, Construction, Manufacturing,
Agriculture and Mining and F.I.R.E. The category of Professional and Business
Services includes a wide range of activities ranging from legal and engineering
services to copying services.
Table 5 provides a list of the 17 largest private sector employers within Indian
River County in 2002. It shows that 4 of them are in the health care sector, 3 in
the leisure and hospitality sector and 3 in retailing. Most of the remainder is
comprised of agricultural enterprises. Only 1 manufacturer is represented.
In 2002 the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation changed its historic method
of counting employment by industry sector making comparisons with prior years
somewhat difficult. However, it appears that during 10-year period inclusive of
1993 through 2002 approximately 1,000 jobs were created on an average annual
basis. Growth occurred in all sectors of the economy with the exception of
Agriculture and Mining. Particularly strong levels of growth occurred in Retail
Trade, Construction and Health Care Services, reflecting the rapid growth in
population during the period. The levels of growth in the F.I.R.E., Manufacturing
and Wholesale Trade were moderate, with those three sectors adding fewer than
1,200 jobs in total over the ten-year period.
As indicated previously, there is no reliable source of employment data for either
the Sebastian Market Area or the City of Sebastian itself. In 2002, Tischler &
Associates prepared a fiscal analysis for the City which indicated that a total of
3,685 were employed within the City. The source of that estimate was Claritas,
Inc. MEAl is well-acquainted with the methodology used by Claritas to estimate
employment. Given its reliance on the voluntary contribution of data by
employers, we believe that it tends to produce numbers that are substantially
understated, particularly in areas such as Sebastian in which most reporting
entitles are small businesses.
Notwithstanding the fact that the Claritas data probably understates the number
of employed in Sebastian, it does, in our opinion, reasonable reflect the
composition of the workforce in terms of economic activity. According to the
Claritas data, nearly 50 percent of the people employed by the private sector in
the City are engaged in Retail Trade, Personal Services (i.e. dry cleaning, hair
Miami Economic Associates~ Inc. 6861 S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
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Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 7'
care, etc.) and Leisure and Hospitality services. It further indicates that in excess
of 25 percent are employed in F.I.R.E, Professional and Business, Health Care
and Educational Services. Manufacturing and Wholesale Trade account for
approximately 5 percent of the workforce within the City.
Historic Development Activity
The bulleted paragraphs that follow profile the developmental activity that has occurred
within the Sebastian Market area since 1998.
As shown in Table 6, the number of residential building permits issued by the
City of Sebastian has been steadily rising since 1998, with 352 being issued in
2002. On an average annual basis, approximately 1,262 residential building
permits have been issued in the unincorporated portions of Indian River County
during the 1998 - 2000 period, with the highest number, 1,809, being issued in
2002. MEAl believes that the number issued on an average annual basis in the
Sebastian Market Area, inclusive of the City and its unincorporated areas has
ranged between 500 and 600, inclusive of seasonal/recreational units.
The building permit activity within the City of Sebastian is overwhelmingly
oriented toward single-family units. Within the unincorporated portions of the
County including on the barrier island, there are significant numbers of multi-
family units permitted each year.
On an average annual basis, approximately 63,500 square feet of new non-
residential space has been permitted within the City of Sebastian between 1998
and 2002. The amounts permitted have, however, varied greatly dudng the
period. In two of the years including 2002, the amount permitted has
approximated 36,000 square feet. In 2001, nearly 120,000 square feet was
permitted. Review of the quarterly Community Development Reports issued by
Indian River County indicates that the preponderance of the space permitted
was for retail uses with some serving the health care sector. To the extent that
new industrial space has been constructed, it is primarily occupied by service
types uses (repair shops, etc,) rather than manufacturing and wholesale trade
enterprises.
The amount of new non-residential space permitted in the unincorporated
portions of Indian River County from 1998 to 2002 has also varied significantly.
In 2001 and 2002 combined, a total of 624,814 square feet were permitted;
however, in each of those two years the amount of development lagged behind
the amount permitted on average in the years 1998 and 2000.
The taxable value of property in the Downtown area of the City of Sebastian in
1994 was $34.96 million. As shown in Table 7, by Fiscal Year 2001 this figure
had risen to $45.83 million. For the current fiscal year, 2004, it is $66.17 million.
While a portion of the increase from FY 2001 to 2004 reflects a real estate
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 6861 S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tel: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305} 669-8534 Email: meaink@bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 8
environment in which appreciation has been occurring at historically high rates,
these numbers also indicate that some of the development activity discussed in
the preceding paragraphs has occurred within the targeted for redevelopment.
Many, if most, redevelopment areas do not experience the types of increases in
taxable valuable that has characterized Downtown Sebastian before the
adoption and implementation of a coherent Redevelopment Plan. This is a
positive sign, indicating that redevelopment initiatives in Downtown Sebastian
will have a strong prospect for success.
Redevelopment Potentials
The bulleted paragraphs that follow assess the potential for new development of vadous
uses with the areas targeted for redevelopment within the City of Sebastian.
Housinq
As discussed previously, approximately 500 to 600 new residential units were
permitted on average annual basis from 1998 to 2002 in the Sebastian Market
Area. This figure is inclusive of seasonal/recreational units. Based on the amount
of population growth expected to occur annually through 2010, it anticipated that
the market will support the development of 600 to 700 units annually.
The overwhelming preponderance of new residential units in the Mainland
portion of the Sebastian Market Area have been single-family homes. Such
development would generally be infeasible within the areas designated for
redevelopment where zoning favors development of up to 8 units per acre and
mandates a three-stow height limit. This zoning is basically consistent with
single-family attached or townhouse product that could easily be developed with
imagery evocative of many traditional seacoast communities. Accordingly, to the
extent that new residential development is to be undertaken as part of the
redevelopment initiative, it witl require the emergence of a multi-family market not
previously seen to any significant degree in Sebastian.
Significant amounts of multi-family development have been occurring in
unincorporated Indian River County as well as Vero Beach, most significantly in
the portions of those areas located on the barrier island. Multi-family units are
also being developed in the barrier island community of Indian River Shores.
While some of this development has involved units with beach or golf course
frontage, the attraction of other units has been frontage on the Intraceastal,
which can be replicated within Downtown Sebastian. Given the topography of the
City of Sebastian as it moves inland from the Intracoastal, residential units
developed on the land within the fork of C.R. 512 could also enjoy excellent
water views. It should also be noted that the supply of vacant land on the barrier
island is substantially depleted in many areas.
· Throughout Florida there is increasing demand by segments of the market,
including portions of that comprised of affluent households, to live in
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 686t S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tel: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305) 669-8534 Email: meaink@bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry Iler
lief Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 9
environments that are both beautiful and "alive". Evidence of this trend exists in
places such as Downtown Delray Beach and Downtown Boynton Beach, among
others. MEAl believes that such an environment can be created in Downtown
Sebastian, particularly if increased specialty retailing and food and beverage
uses that take advantage of the riverfront are developed. It should be noted that
much of the development referred to above in Boynton Beach and Delray Beach,
most of which is of high value, has been in close proximity to the FEC railroad
line. It is further noted that there would be greater ability to buffer development in
the C.R. 512 fork from the railroad noise than has been the case in Boynton
Beach and Delray Beach.
Review of the data in Table 8 that segments future housing demand by age of
household head and income indicates that in excess of 70 percent of the future
demand for housing is likely to involve households headed by persons 55 years
of age or older. Within this segment of the market, there is frequently strong
interest in multi-family units. It is further anticipated that in excess of 50 percent
of this potential demand segment could afford housing priced in excess of
$200,000, in most cases significantly higher.
Based on the segmentation of housing demand discussed in the preceding
paragraph, MEAl believes that demand for higher-value multi-family, townhouse-
type units in the Downtown area and C.R. 512 fork in range of 50 units per year
though 2010 could exist. Such development in the Downtown area should be
most encouraged along the riverfront south of Miami Street. Its development will
benefit from proximity to Riverfront Park and would, in turn, serve to energize the
park as a major community facility.
Hospitality Use
Downtown Sebastian already contains some small to moderately-sized
hospitality facilities. Modest demand for additional such development may
emerge as redevelopment initiatives enhance the ambiance of the area and to
the extent that new specialty retailing and eating and drinking venues are
created. Development of a major new, chain-affiliated property is not, however,
anticipated due to absence of a major amenity like beach or a marina. The height
limitation imposed of Downtown development would also preclude the efficient
operation of such a facility.
Retail Use
As discussed previously, the Sebastian Market Area is expected to experience
significant growth in terms of both population and income. MEAl estimates that
as this occurs, the opportunity will exist for the development of approximately
100,000 square feet of new retail space though the Market Area on an average
annual basis though 2010. It is recognized that significant portions of the new
supportable space are likely to be developed along the C.R. 512 corridor as new
residential communities emerge and on in-fill sites along U.S. 1. However, a
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 6861 S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tei: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305) 669-8534 Em;~il: meaink@bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry lief
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 10
portion of the new spending should be available to support the development of
up to 150,000 square feet of specialty shops and eating and ddnking
establishments along the Riverfront.
MEAl believes that retail and restaurant uses of the type just indicated should be
encouraged to create the type of "lively" environment that has prompted higher
value multi-family development to occur in the places previously referred to such
as Downtown Boynton Beach and Downtown Delray Beach. We further
recommend that such development occur in the vicinity of Riverfront Park,
thereby drawing new residential development to the area south of Main Street.
Office Use
The development of new office uses is generally predicated on growth in the
F.I.R.E. and professional and health care sectors of the economy. Based on our
understanding of employment trends in Indian River County, inclusive of the
Sebastian Market Area, MEAl does not envision significant demand for new
office space, with the possible exception of medically-oriented facilities. We also
do not believe that office use will play a significant role in the redevelopment of
Downtown.
Industrial Use
To the extent that industrial development will be par[ of a redevelopment
initiative, it would only be appropriate in the portion of the defined redevelopment
area that is located west of the railroad tracks in the vicinity of C.R. 512. Survey
of the industrial buildings that already exists in that area shows that are primarily
occupied by a variety of service businesses such as repair shops and lawn
services rather than manufacturers and wholesale trade firms. This is consistent
with the employment data for Indian River County and is likely to remain the
case. Review of building permit data for the period from 1998 to 2002 further
indicates that new industrial development will only occur on a highly sporadic
basis. That is fur[her reflected by the fact that five of six recent sales identified,
have been at values between $0.63 and $2.25 per square foot.
The redevelopment area in the vicinity of C.R. 512 is actually comprised of two
parts. The first part is located within the fork in the road. Included in this par[ of
the area is a City-owned property that it will be disposing of and which will require
re-designation in terms of permitted use. The second par[ of the area is located
south of C.R. 512. MEAl believes that the redevelopment plan should direct all
future industrial development into this latter area. We fur[her recommend that the
land within the fork be re-designated for mixed-use development inclusive of
residential uses. Given the slow pace at which industrial development is
occurring within Sebastian and the Iow land value reflected in the recent sale
discussed above, MEAl believes that the recommended action would actually
enhance the value of the property that would be subject to the land use
amendment.
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 6861 S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tel: (305} 669-0229 Fax: (305} 669-8534 Email: meaink~bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
September 23, 2003
Page 11
Conclusion
MEAl believes that significant market support for redevelopment in the City of Sebastian.
We also believe that the market's general positive image of the area is likely to make
redevelopment a successful undertaking.
Sincerely,
Miami Economic Associates, Inc.
Andrew Dolkart
President
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 6861 S.W. 89t# Terrace Miami, Florida 33t56
Tel: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305) 669-8534 Email: meaink~bellsouth.net
Mr. Henry Iler
Iler Planning Group
September 23 2003
Page 12
APPENDIX
Miami Economic Associates, Inc. 686t S.W. 89th Terrace Miami, Florida 33156
Tel: (305) 669-0229 Fax: (305) 669-8534 Email: meaink@beilsouth.net
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Table 4
Employment by Industry
Indian River County
20O2
Industry Emnlovment Percent
Agriculture & Mining 2,350 5.5%
Construction 3,252 7.6%
Manufacturing 2,556 6.0%
T.C.P.U. * 1,096 2.6%
Wholesale Trade 740 1.7%
Retail Trade 7,581 17.8%
F.I.R.E. ** 2,001 4.7%
Professional & Business Services 3,478 8.2%
Educational Services 598 1.4%
Health Care Services 6,601 15.5%
Leisure & Hospitality 5,635 13.2%
Other Services 1,761 4.1%
Government 5.020 11,8%
Total 42.669 100.0%
* Transportation, Communications and Public Utilities
** Finance, Insurance and Real Estate
Source: FIodda Agency for Workforce Innovation; Miami Economic Associates, inc.
Table 5
Largest Private Employers
Indian River County
2002
Employer EmDIovee~
Indian River Memorial Hospital 1,451
The New Piper Aircraft 1,000
Public Supermarkets 715
Wal-Mart 672
Sun Ag, Inc. 550
Hale Indian River Groves 500
John's Island 475
Gracewood Fruit Packing 465
Dodgertown Complex 450
Winn-Dixie 440
Legend Properties, Inc. 426
Indian River Estates 413
Sebastian River Medical Center 370
Indian River County Exchange Packers 350
Visiting Nurse Association 332
Flight Safety institute 300
Disney Veto Beach Resort 275
Industry
Health Services
Manaufacturing
Retail Trade
Retail Trade
Agriculture
Agdcuitura
Hospitality
Agriculture
Leisure
Retail Trade
Real Estate
Health Services
Health Services
Agriculture
Health Services
Transportation
Hospitality
Source: IRC Chamber of Commerce; Miami Economic Associates, Inc.
Table $
Building Permit Activity
Indian River County
'1998 - 2002
Single. Multi-
Family Family Total
(Units) (Units) (Units)
Sebastian
1998 236 4 240
1999 262 10 272
2000 278 18 296
2001 294 13 307
2002 328 24 352
Industrial/
Commercial
(S.F.)
50,930
35,874
74,355
119,579
36,684
1998 713 561 1,274 461,421
1999 697 115 812 556,341
2000 793 599 1,392 417,217
2001 927 98 1,025 229,245
2002 1,035 774 1,809 395,569
Total County
1998 1,075 593 1,668
1999 1,104 283 1,387
2000 1,200 668 1,868
2001 1,350 145 1,495
2002 1,484 991 2,475
658,841
640,897
581,221
523,008
554,354
Source: Indian River County; Miami Economic Associates, Inc.
Table 7
Taxable Value of Property
Downtown Sebastian
Fiscal Years 2001 - 2004
(00o's)
2OOl $45,834.9
2002 $58,263.7
2003 $58,844.2
2004 $66,174.3
Source: City of Sebastian; Miami Economic Associates, Inc.
CRA Master Plan Appendix
Appendix F
Site Development Regulations and Permitted Use Summary
Sebastian, Florida
Page 49 of 49
12-3-03
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