City denies marina's plan to construct buildings

City denies marina's plan to construct buildings



By Kati Bexley
kati.bexley.staugustine.com
Publication Date: 02/26/08


St. Augustine City Commissioners turned down an appeal Monday by a company that wanted to build three large structures on Riberia Street in Lincolnville, but the developer could instead construct a building the size of a football field.

"I'm a little concerned about what happens when we walk away from here," said City Commissioner Errol Jones after the board's unanimous vote.

Oasis Marina, owned by Charlie Spires of Beta Two of Alachua LLC, at 256 Riberia St., wanted to build three 35-foot high buildings that would contain about 300 dry boat slips. The building would have been within 100 feet of the San Sebastian River, which is a conservation zone.

In January, the Planning and Zoning Board denied the application. And on Monday, the City Commission upheld that decision.

However, the company's property is zoned for Industrial Warehouse use, and Oasis could now construct one building the size of a football field that is farther away from the water, and the firm won't need the city's permission.

"So, the threat just got a little more real," said Mayor Joe Boles when the company's attorney showed plans to construct the massive building.

Planning and Zoning denied the project because of concerns that the massive buildings would block the vista and harm wetlands.

Ellen Avery-Smith, Oasis Marina's attorney, said the Board based its decision on neighbors' testimony, who are not experts and could be challenged in the courtroom.

A resident in the City Hall audience yelled out, "It's called a community!"

The commission did not take public comment, but simply reviewed the PZB's decision. But residents filled City Hall to listen to the discussion.

All of the commissioners were against the developer building a single, large structure, but they said it is beyond their control.

"I don't like either options, really," said Commissioner Don Crichlow. "I don't know how to stop it."



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