Planning Commission approves amendments for Westgate on Third multifamily project

Monroe County Commissioners are moving forward with a significant amendment to the Westgate on Third Planned Unit Development (PUD), aimed at addressing challenges posed by recent weather conditions. During a meeting on June 5, 2025, officials discussed the proposed changes to the phasing plan narrative, which outlines the timeline and requirements for completing various phases of the multifamily residential project.

The amendment seeks to provide flexibility in issuing conditional land use certificates (LUC) for phases 3 and 4, particularly in light of delays caused by an unusually wet spring. The planning director has collaborated with county legal to introduce language that allows for conditional LUCs to be granted even if final landscaping and stormwater infrastructure improvements are not fully completed, as long as the project remains in compliance with the ordinance.

Currently, phases 1 and 2 have received their conditional LUCs, while the team is actively working on phases 3 and 4. The project includes eight stormwater bioretention ponds, which have faced construction delays due to weather. Despite these challenges, progress has been made, with some ponds nearing completion.

The Plan Commission previously endorsed the amendment with a unanimous vote, and the county staff is recommending its approval. The urgency of the project is underscored by the petitioner’s commitment to completing a building every one to two months, indicating that the timeline for the project is moving swiftly. The anticipated completion of the amendment is expected to facilitate continued development and ensure compliance with stormwater management requirements.