Fort Pierce residents voice concerns over Causeway Cove development bypassing local oversight

Fort Pierce city officials are grappling with significant concerns regarding a proposed 18-story development project that bypasses local oversight, as highlighted during the City Commission meeting on May 5, 2025. Community member Edie Harrison raised alarms about the project, which is being pursued by the owner of Causeway Cove and a development team seeking state approval rather than adhering to the city’s established planning processes.

Harrison emphasized that the development contradicts the community-driven Western Peninsula Shoreline plan, which aims to create a balanced mix of businesses, homes, and public parks. Instead, the new project appears to prioritize luxury amenities over affordable housing, raising questions about its alignment with the state's Live Local Act. This legislation mandates that 40% of units in developments funded through it must be designated as affordable rentals for 30 years. However, Harrison pointed out that the proposal only includes a fraction of the required affordable units, potentially undermining the act's intent.

The city commission acknowledged the challenges posed by the state legislation, which limits local input on such developments. City officials expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and the potential impact on community trust. They noted that the upcoming Technical Review Committee meeting on May 15 will provide an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns.

As the city navigates these complex issues, officials are urging community members to engage in the upcoming discussions to ensure that Fort Pierce's future development reflects the needs and desires of its residents. The commission's commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial as they address the implications of state legislation on local governance and community planning.