In a recent government meeting, the Planning Commission discussed a variance request related to a newly approved hotel resort development on Little Torch Key. The project, which includes 38 hotel units and 8 affordable employee housing units, has been granted a conditional use permit, but the developers are now seeking to eliminate the requirement for six boat trailer parking spaces associated with an existing boat ramp on the property.
Emily Skemper, Senior Director of Planning and Environmental Resources, presented the request, explaining that the boat ramp will not be used by hotel guests or the public, and therefore, the need for designated trailer parking is unnecessary. The proposal aims to reduce the total number of parking spaces from 114 to 108, a 5.3% decrease, which falls within the planning director's authority to approve minor reductions.
The Planning Commission had previously approved the conditional use permit in October 2023, with specific conditions including the prohibition of boat trailer parking on-site. The variance request was prompted by a nearby property owner's appeal for a hearing, despite the administrative variance typically being within the planning director's purview.
Skemper emphasized that the applicant has confirmed that their boat trailers are stored off-site, and maintenance activities are conducted away from the property. The staff report concluded that the variance request meets all necessary standards for approval, and the commission is expected to vote on the recommendation, which includes conditions to ensure compliance with the original permit stipulations regarding boat usage and parking.