During the recent Planning and Development Board meeting held on May 23, 2023, in Hollywood, Florida, discussions centered around the development of local golf courses, highlighting the balance between community needs and urban development.

One of the key speakers, Matt Press, a local developer and golf course owner, addressed the board regarding his plans to develop two golf courses in the area. Press emphasized the importance of proactive development, noting that without intervention, golf courses often fall into disrepair, leading to foreclosure and eventual development into residential areas. He proposed a plan to reduce one of the golf courses from 18 holes to 9, while also highlighting a new development that would include 300 residential units on a 160-acre site.

Press praised the developers for their thoughtful approach, which includes a deed restriction to prevent future development of the golf course land. He expressed that the proposed development is commendable, especially given that he would typically seek to maximize the number of units built. His comments reflect a growing trend in urban planning where developers are encouraged to consider community impact and sustainability in their projects.

The meeting also featured discussions from other community members, although specific details from those contributions were not highlighted in the transcript. Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue in Hollywood about balancing development with the preservation of green spaces, a critical issue as the city continues to grow.

As the board moves forward, the implications of these discussions will likely influence future planning decisions, shaping the community's landscape and addressing the needs of its residents. The next steps will involve further evaluations of the proposed developments and continued community engagement to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are considered.