Live Oak Detox Requests Conditional Use to Expand from 14 to 16 Residents

In a recent Fort Pierce Planning Board meeting, discussions centered around a proposed conditional use application for a facility aiming to expand its capacity from 14 to 16 residents. The facility, which caters to individuals aged 18 and older, will employ six full-time staff members, including medical professionals, and will operate around the clock. All transportation for residents will be provided by staff, eliminating the need for personal vehicles on-site.

The board reviewed the facility's existing floor plan and front elevation, with staff recommending that the application move forward to the city commission for approval. However, alternative recommendations included modified approval or outright disapproval, primarily due to concerns about parking.

A significant point of contention was the parking requirements. The facility currently has nine parking spaces, which raises questions about compliance with the standard of 1.5 parking spaces per bed. Given that the facility will not allow residents to have personal vehicles, the board debated whether the existing parking was sufficient. The applicant clarified that the previous operator had opted for a payment in lieu of adding parking spaces in 2016, which had not been revisited since.

Board members expressed concerns about potential parking overflow into the surrounding residential neighborhood, where street parking is limited. They discussed the possibility of restricting parking to staff and service vehicles only, ensuring that the facility does not become a nuisance for neighbors. The applicant emphasized that the facility does not permit visitation, further reducing the likelihood of additional vehicles.

As the meeting progressed, board members considered the implications of the conditional use approval. They proposed a condition that would tie the approval to the current operator, ensuring that any future changes in ownership or operation would require a new review process. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of the facility's operations and its impact on the community.

The discussions highlighted the delicate balance between expanding essential services for residents in need and addressing the concerns of the surrounding community. As the board prepares to forward its recommendations to the city commission, the outcome will shape the future of this facility and its role within Fort Pierce.